How can you make your wardrobe last throughout the warmer months and stretch it so that each ensemble can be worn during the day and at night? We’ve got a few tips for you.
Overalls
If you’re one of those peeps who thinks overalls were a thing of a bygone era like the ’90s, well, then unfortunately you’d be wrong. Overalls are all the rage this summer. The best part is that you can make them both work and weekend appropriate. For daytime, pair the beauties with a structured blazer and a hot pair of heels (perhaps something in a neon hue). For nighttime and casual evenings out on the town, pack away the pumps, and put on a pair of sneakers; replace the blazer with a crop top or shrunken tee. (Urban Outfitters, $40; American Apparel, $115)
Eye-popping, patterned dresses
We know most corporate offices would prefer employees stick to a subtle, neutral uniform (Nudes! Navys! Blacks!), but that’s just so anti-this-summer’s trends. To make that graphically printed dress of yours work for the daytime, we suggest pairing it with nude heels and a neutral boyfriend blazer or wrap. For nighttime, give your dress a little Parisian flair by donning it with gladiator flats and a leather or jean jacket. (jcrew.com, $178; Anthropologie, $128)
Afraid of graphic prints? Here are tips for donning them without looking like a clown >>
Crop tops
Most people are terrified of this trend, largely because it doesn’t seem versatile. But rocking a crop can be perfectly office and evening appropriate. For daytime, pair a shorter tee with high-waisted pants; this will ensure the midriff isn’t overexposed in the workplace. You might also want to wear high heels (the look will lengthen your legs). For a weekend look, anything goes — pair your shrunken tee with a short leather skirt to craft an ensemble that’s a little edgy, or wear it with floral cropped pants for something that’s a bit more feminine. (Zara, $70; ASOS, $47)
Sweatshirts
In most workplaces, sweatshirts are a no-no. That said, if you’re in a casual environment or can embrace “flexible fashion Fridays,” then there are some ways to rock them without them looking too “relaxed.” A good place to start is to play with your pant wear: For the office, ensure your bottoms are structured instead of too baggy. For nighttime, we love the idea of pairing a hoodie with heels and distressed jeans. (Gap, $16; Forever 21, $17)
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