The Anti-Dress
Are you in the midst of party season, and you just can’t stand to put on another dress? Or are you just tired of the same old cocktail dresses, but you have no desire (or time) to buy another? Then I have some looks for you! Separates can be just as dressy, just as impactful, and just as sexy as dresses, but are often way more comfortable and easier to wear. And if you’re a different size on the top and bottom, they’re also much simpler to shop for! Here are five simple, but standout outfits that will get you through New Years’ (and beyond) in sassy holiday style.
STATEMENT SKIRT
Yes, your skirt can be the star of your look – especially when it’s as eye-catching as this one. A black tux blazer and pointy toe booties keep it sexy and edgy, and geometric earrings bring their eyes back up to your face. Add a barely-there silk cami and enjoy the evening’s festivities.
STATEMENT JACKET
Sometimes you just want to wear pants, right? Then slim satin trousers are the perfect party choice. Top them off with an attention-getting jacket, grab your leopard-print pumps and you are sooo party ready.
MONOCHROMATIC
If you like the look of a dress, but want the ease of separates, a textured skirt and silk blouse in the same color are right up your alley. Navy is the new black (at least I think so), so it’s perfect as an evening dress alternative. Maintain the color story with a necklace based in blues, and finish it off with some sassy gold heels.
BOLD CONTRAST
When you’re the hostess (or providing kitchen help), a sleeveless crewneck blouse and comfortable pants just make sense. But you won’t lose any impact if you do it in black and white. Get your shine on with a sequin top and gold flats, ground it with wide leg pants, and make it modern with a clear jeweled cuff.
BOLD COLOR
Color is the easiest way to be festive, but don’t go with the expected red and green – instead, try fuchsia and citron. This color combo is not for the faint of heart, but you’re willing to try, right? Use jewelry as your color ‘blueprint’ and it all makes sense. And if you feel the need, tone it down with a neutral sweater – you’ll still have all eyes on you.
Are you ready to ditch your much-loved but too-often-worn dresses in favor of stylish separates this party season? Let me know your favorite look in the comments!
Paul Julch helps busy people to streamline, organize, and update their wardrobes so they can get dressed with ease and always look stylish and feel confident. Any budget, any lifestyle, any body. His business is Urbanite|Suburbanite, and he works with clients to develop a modern, current, versatile wardrobe that expresses personal style rather than trends. Paul is based in the SF Bay Area, and remote wardrobe & style coaching is available for out-of-towners. Visit Paul’s website http://urbsuburbstyle.com for more style advice, and follow him on Facebook www.facebook.com/UrbaniteSuburbanite/ , and Instagram www.instagram.com/urbsuburbstyle/ to stay up to date on the best styling tips and tricks.