By Melanie K Nelson
There are very few people that are busier than the modern Mom. From work, to the kids’ events, and maybe even grabbing some drinks with the girls, Moms are constantly transitioning between their many roles. Don’t you wish that your fashion could do the same? This article is all about taking one versatile item and switching your accessories to help you create very different looks on the fly!
First off we have the main piece. I chose this Travex ¾ length sleeve dress from Eddie Bauer for a few different reasons. This dress has a classic cut in a versatile A-line silhouette that is both work appropriate and stylish. The print on this dress is fun and interesting without being too bold for work. Everyone knows that a plain dress can be versatile but this is the perfect dress to prove that you shouldn’t be afraid of prints! The final reason that I chose this dress is the material. The fabric is high quality, comfortable, resists wrinkles, and retains its shape so it won’t stretch out half way through the day.
The first outfit that I put together is for work. When you are at your job you want to look polished but still stylish, so I paired the dress with a classic pair of nude patent leather pumps. I cannot stress enough how wonderful nude pumps are at elongating the leg and adding a bit of class to any outfit. A lot of offices are moving away from overly dressy dress codes, so I included this fun casual take on a blazer. This knit blazer has all of the structure of its traditional counterpart, but is a little more interesting and a lot more comfortable! If your office is more formal, throw on your favorite suit coat and it will look just as good! Finally, I added this great structured handbag that is big enough to hold all of your work essentials and even carry you over into the next part of your day.
The next look is for whatever event your kids might have going that afternoon, from soccer practice to Girl Scouts you will be stylish and comfortable in this outfit! Since you will no doubt be on your feet, we traded in the pumps for cute and comfy flats. Naturalizer is my go-to brand for supportive shoes and this cute flat adds just a touch of style. Since fall weather is coming I threw in a fun wide knit sweater that softens the look of the outfit. Finally, transition the same structured bag for an accessory that is polished yet practical.
After a long day of work and Mommy duty, its time for a girls night out or maybe even date night with your other half. This same outfit will transform into a flirty look by adding a pair of boots like the ones I chose above. Since the dress is pretty feminine, I touched it up with calf-height leather boots with a silver buckle. Next add a bold, statement necklace like this shiny silver one. Finally, add a sweep of a bold lip color (here are my top three) and you are ready for a night on the town!
Remember, these are just my picks. Look in your own closet and see what outfits you can transform with different shoes and jewelry. You might be surprised at the combinations that you can come up with when you allow yourself to play dress up!
Products:
Bag: http://www.colehaan.com/colehaan/catalog/product.jsp?catId=100&productId=649348&productGroup=649347
Boots: http://www.planetshoes.com/item/fossil-rebecca-high-heel-boot/15550
