DRESS ME UP
July 27, 2007 - 9:00 pm
The dress never left the fashion scene, it just decided to take center stage this season. Designers have been kind enough to offer a variety of shapes — trapeze, A-line, jumper, shirtdress, strapless — meaning the fail-safe fashion choice of the season accommodates all sizes of women.
But if you’ve tired of donning that easy choice, you can add some panache to your dresses with a few easy styling tips. These tricks can add new life to your wardrobe and help you prepare your closet for the move into cooler weather. And the best part about these tips? All include basics that will extend your wardrobe in other areas as well.
LEATHER FETISH
Your strapless sundress might be feeling a bit, well, out there on its own this summer. But it doesn’t have to hang forelorn in your closet as the weather cools. Pair it with a chic cropped leather jacket to add a modern edge to this classic summer look.
THE DARK SIDE
The jumper made a mini-comeback over the summer, and if you bought into that trend, stretch it into the fall with a dark top underneath. Blacks, charcoals and navys are your best choices here to avoid that schoolgirl look.
OVER AND OUT
That shirtdress you found this summer can have a whole new personality when paired with another. Just pick colors that go together to give two dresses a new look.
LAYER CAKE
If you found a denim dress to don, you can extend its life into fall with a long-sleeved T-shirt layered underneath. And as it gets colder, add another. A white skinny belt and red flats will freshen your look.
GRAPHIC ART
You went bold this summer and decided to go with a dress in a bright color such as green or fuschia. Make the dress into a whole different outfit by going for a tank with a collar and tie-neck.
TEE-OFF
You followed the trends and smartly found a little white dress in a jersey material to wear on the weekends. You can extend its life with the addition of a T-shirt in either a bold color or striped pattern. Add a wide patent leather belt and you have a new outfit.