Imagine this, you have an upcoming event. Since it is a special occasion, you get out that piece of plastic and decide to “treat yoself.” Your look is perfect and you enter the event with your head held high, shoulders back, filled with confidence. Whether you make new connections or your photograph is taken, you may be hesitant to re-wear that same look again. Has this ever happened to you? I know it has for me. This thought runs across my mind, “what if I bump into the same person that saw me at the event, wearing the same look?” Oh the horror!
Now, I’m not here to change your mind, or convince you that this is not a devastating circumstance. Some of us just don’t feel comfortable in this situation. What I do want to share are some tips to ensure that your favorite look does not spend time in the closet, never seeing the light of day again.
Shopping with a purpose for a specific occasion can present challenges. This may be a dress code event, but for arguments sake, let’s say it was a function that did not have a dress code. First tip, consider your purchase. Choose a statement, classic piece that can be worn separate or combined with your existing wardrobe. A considerate choice during the purchasing stage will save hassle later on.
Next tip includes the little extras that have the power to change the entire appearance. Makeup, jewelry, accessories! These three accents can be mixed and matched to create a different mood, whether styling down or up.
How about an example. I purchased a gorgeous black velvet blazer dress for my speaking engagement at the 2019 Pennsylvania Conference for Women. I paired this sleek look with faux blush croc shoes. I chose minimal makeup with a nude lip and subtle eyeliner. Now I don’t know that I can really articulate how much I love this dress. I mean probably one of my all time favorite fashion items. It fits like a glove, it’s a classic wardrobe staple, and perfectly epitomizes my own style. Realizing that my photo was taken at the event and a chance that the connections I made might remember the look I decided to transform this dress into a 90’s inspired casual fall outfit.
Instead of wearing the blazer as the intended dress, I wore it over a black tee as a long tailored blazer. Add black levi’s and opted for a pair of black boots not heels. Jewelry included my Dior choker and gold hoops with a retro red lip in burgundy for the 90’s flair. And voilà a brand new ensemble! A sustainable way to keep purchases to a minimum and remain fashionable. One outfit, two ways and nobody is the wiser; well except you 😉
