Some women love wearing a dress and others, not so much.  What I've found is that, quite often, those who don't gravitate to dresses just need a few guidelines to help them style the dress properly.  Once you've tried it a few times, you may find that it becomes a staple in your wardrobe.  Certainly you'll have lots of choices when it comes to styles, because dresses have been so very popular the last few seasons.  (I personally think the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, is largely responsible for this resurgence in popularity.  If anyone knows how to wear a dress well, it is she.)  My own wardrobe now contains a selection of dresses and I find I'm drawn to them more and more as my 'go to' choices for going out to dinner, or even just running errands.  The primary reason?  They're just so effortless - one-step-dressing.  I hope these tips inspire you to add the dress as a staple in your wardrobe (or at least give it a try.)

Happy styling!

Duchess of Cambridge (People: Style Watch)

Let's face it, there's really nothing easier when it comes to getting ready to step out the door than wearing a dress that fits you well and flatters your coloring.  Pop on a few accessories and you're good to go.  Here are a few tips to help you style your dress and wear it with confidence.

There's more than just the LBD.

• If black is truly one of your colors, that's great, but don't stop there. Try another neutral, like navy blue or dove gray or maybe taupe, especially now that we're into the warmer weather.
• Go for 'real' color - do you love pink or yellow? Then wear a dress in that solid color.  It can be a show-stopper (in fact, have you noticed, the solid color dress is a style that Kate has mastered, and one of the reasons she always looks so polished.)
• If you're attracted to a bright color but are nervous about it's intensity, then opt for a shade that's less intense. For example, instead of a bright red, try berry or rose or coral. 

Fabrics make a huge difference.

• Wool crepe and matte jersey fit smoothly on the body and don't wrinkle.
• Linens and some silks are beautiful, but realize that they will wrinkle quickly.
• If you like a flirty style, think about something in a chiffon because it will move with you. Also consider a dress with a fuller skirt, or maybe a flounce at the bottom. 

Choose appropriate footwear.

• If the dress is heavily patterned or lacy, keep the shoe simple. The nude pump is a great choice because it doesn't break up the flow of the leg and keeps the attention on the dress.
• On the other hand, if the dress is solid colored, add some personality in a fanciful shoe - go floral or metallic.
• If a floral dress seems too 'foo-foo' for your personal style, toughen it up by wearing a knee-high boot or adding a leather or denim jacket.

 

Jewelry depends largely on the neckline.

• A dress with a scoop neckline is a great canvas for a statement necklace.  Go bold!
• If the neckline is very detailed (with ruffles or beaded, for example), avoid the necklace and keep your earrings simple.
• A wrap dress with v-neck is perfect with a simple pendant necklace. You can add interest with bangles on the arm.

If you'd like this handy little reference chart to keep in your closet, just let me know. I'll send it to you!

Bag it the right way.

• If the dress isn't a work dress, don't wear a work bag.
• If the dress is simple, you can add in some interest with your handbag - maybe one with studs, or chains or a pattern.
• Always have a clutch in one of your neutral colors. If your dress or accessories is the 'star', then the handbag won't fight for attention.

Are you ready to style the dress for yourself?   

As always, if you'd like a little help,

I'm here! 

 

I though you might enjoy seeing a dress I styled for myself for
and upcoming wedding.  This green leather jacket has been a workhorse in my
wardrobe.  It works as a great neutral for me as well as
a pop of color.  Do you have a color that works well for you as a neutral?

This pretty little dragonfly pin was laying unworn in
my jewelery drawer. Even though I'm not really a pin girl, for the most part,
I just loved this little guy and couldn't get rid of him.
So one day, I had an inspiration to pin him to a window covering
on an upstairs stairway landing window.  Voila!
Now I can see him everyday when I go upstairs,
and if the sun is just right, he gives off a beautiful reflection.
Maybe you have something in your closet too
that you can repurpose and enjoy every day?