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Semi casual attire is a popular choice for nearly any occasion, and for good reason—it strikes the perfect balance between formality and comfort. Ideal for everyday social gatherings, it also transitions seamlessly into the workplace. However, not everyone really makes the most of this attire. In this article, we’re going to look at what exactly semi casual dressing looks like, for both men and women. We’ll take you through all of the best clothing options and provide styling tips and advice on accessorizing the outfit you choose. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to put together stylish outfits that easily transition from work to party. Semi Casual Attire for Women You might already have a lot of options in your wardrobe, but it can be tricky getting the right combination for a truly versatile semi casual outfit. In this section, we’ll outline our favorite options. Tops Semi casual outfits are all about being stylish and comfortable at the same time, and there are a lot of tops that can accomplish this for you. Blouses and shirts are classic options here, and these can be paired with your choice of skirts, pants, or jeans. Cardigans and pullovers are a practical choice if the season is a bit chilly, and they always bring a touch of sophistication along with them. If you’re going for t-shirts, keep in mind that your attire will lean more towards the casual side. These can be dressed up or down as well, but may not be the best option if you have to clock in to work at 9:00 before a brunch with friends at 12:30. Bottoms Like tops, you have plenty of options in bottoms as well, each one for a different style and occasion. Skirts are a popular option; we recommend pairing these with a blouse or sweater of choice. If you’re more of a pants and jeans person, you’ll have a lot more to choose from — dress up or down as needed. Go with wide-leg pants and culottes if you’re looking for a trendy vibe. Dresses Semi casual attire doesn’t have to be a pair of tops or bottoms, dresses are a good alternative in a lot of cases too. For a simple and classic look, try a shift dress, or wrap dresses if you want something more flattering and feminine. A-line dresses are also a classic choice and can be dressed up or down kind of like pants and jeans. Footwear Like the rest of your outfit, your footwear should match your style and occasion as well. Flats are comfortable and fairly versatile, but they’re not quite as formal as any pair of heels. Neutral ankle boots bring the best of both worlds; you can pair them with skirts, pants, or dresses for a more elevated look. With footwear, we always emphasize comfort along with style – you should not have to compromise on either of these factors in your choice. Accessories Accessories are always a good idea to personalize your outfit, whether it’s casual, semi casual, or a black tie ensemble. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are all good options for semi casual outfits. Besides jewelry, handbags can be that one practical and stylish accessory that can really complete your outfit. If the weather allows it, you can never go wrong with a fashionable scarf or hat. They’re practical, and they’ll make you look that much nicer too. Semi Casual Attire for Men If you’re new to semi casual attire, you might be pleasantly surprised by just how many options are available for men. Tops Semi casual tops have a lot of both comfortable and stylish options. For the classic choice, go with button-down shirts. These are always available in a range of fabrics and patterns, so you can pick what you like. You can also go with polo shirts for a more relaxed look and feel or flannel shirts if the weather is a bit cooler. For winter, sweaters like cardigans and pullovers are the perfect choice. Bottoms As far as semi casual bottoms go, chinos are some of the most versatile options you can go with. They can be dressed up or down to suit your style. Jeans are also a timeless classic that you can pair with almost any top. If you want to go for a more formal look, try slacks worn with a button-down shirt or sweater. Though almost every semi casual outfit is versatile, we still recommend considering the occasion before picking out your bottoms. Footwear Footwear is subtle but nonetheless a hugely important part of any outfit. For semi casual outfits, we recommend loafers. Like jeans and button-downs, these are a classic in their category and can easily be dressed up or down as preferred. If you’re leaning on the casual side, go for sneakers. While most people keep them reserved for formal outfits, you can also put on a pair of dress boots with a semi casual outfit if you’re looking for a bit of sophistication. If you haven’t done so yet, remember to select the most comfortable pair of shoes, no matter which style you choose. Accessories Accessories with any outfit are your chance to add a personal touch to the look. Start with belts – they’re practical and can be a stylish addition as they cinch your waist. In colder weather, look at your choice of hats and scarves to get both warmth and style in one go. Lastly, pick an everyday beater watch to go with the outfit. Something like a Tissot or Seiko can make for an excellent addition. Tips for Styling Semi Casual Outfits With your clothing options sorted, how do you choose the right colors? Should you layer your outfits? We’ll cover these questions (and more) in detail here: Color Coordination Color coordination is an often underrated part of any outfit, and this goes for semi casual attire as well. As a general rule of thumb, you should choose colors that complement each other. This helps you create an outfit that doesn’t just look good but well put together, too. For instance, while blue and orange or green and purple might not be your go-to combinations, they can work well for many outfits. If you’re more of a monochromatic outfit person, where you wear different shades of the same color, you’ll be fine with more or less any combination. Still, try experimenting with different shades and maybe throw in a bit of color to see if you can’t add something unique to your everyday wardrobe. Layering People often forget just how much better layering can make an outfit. It adds a ton of depth and dimension and lets you increase your styling options by multitudes. Essentially, you’ll be combining different pieces of clothing to create a look that, well, has layers to it (at least two). The best time for layering is the changing of the season; it’ll help you adapt easily to the changing weather conditions. For instance, try a button-down shirt over a t-shirt on a cool day, and maybe even add a sweater or jacket for extra warmth. It’s practical and if done right, can make for a fantastic outfit at the same time. Fit How your clothing fits is important in every type of attire. It’s non-negotiable, your clothes have to fit well. Unless you’re going for a completely casual look with oversized clothing, you’ll want the polished and stylish impression that only comes with well-fitting clothes. Pay attention to the fit of your tops, bottoms, and outerwear to get the most out of your look. The general guidelines here are to make sure your garments fit without being too tight or too loose. If anything is loose and drooping where it shouldn’t, it’s too loose. If it feels like it might tear at the slightest of awkward movements, it’s probably too tight. The best way to get well-fitting clothes is to get them properly tailored. It’ll accentuate your silhouette and make you look and feel your absolute best. Experiment With Semi Casual Attire Semi casual attire is a wonderfully versatile and stylish option for pretty much any occasion. Once you understand what it’s all about and follow the tips we outlined in this article, you’ll be able to put together outfits from your current wardrobe that keep you comfortable, look good, and fit right into any theme. Remember to experiment with all the different colors you have in your wardrobe (if it’s only monochromatic, it might be time for something new). With a little effort, you’ll be an absolute master of the semi casual style and create countless timeless looks for your personality. Tags:  Trending

Unless you’re a self-proclaimed fashion guru, navigating a summer cocktail attire dress code can be incredibly challenging. Not only do you have to strike the right balance between casual and formal, but you also have to ensure the outfit is equipped for the heat (aka won’t leave you drenched in sweat). Fortunately, you won’t have to decipher summer cocktail attire alone. We’re here to help you find the perfect outfit, whether that’s for your best friend’s beach wedding or a romantic picnic with your beau. Summer Cocktail Attire Dress Code Explained Generally, the summer cocktail attire dress code can be loosely translated to semi-formal with a lil’ more “chic” thrown into the mix. When you pull this style off successfully, you’ll come across as effortlessly classy and draw the eyes of everyone around you. Unlike traditional cocktail attire, which has more emphasis on sophistication, a summer cocktail style embraces a more playful feel, allowing for light, airy materials, vibrant colors, and looser fits. Open-toed wedge heels are also welcome here, provided they complement the outfit and color palette. Examples of Summer Cocktail Attire Dress Wear Getting a feel of this dress code from its definition alone can be tricky, so we’ve gathered some staple summer cocktail looks here: A knee-length rust dress with a matching black clutch A blouse with a relaxed fit blazer Pleated trousers with a black or brown belt A tea-length chiffon dress with a clean, minimalist updo and heels A camp collar shirt paired with a lightweight linen blazer You should also be mindful of the colors you wear. Black is a sophisticated and timeless shade, but it may not be the best choice for an outdoor summer event, where light, lively colors are often preferred. Dressing for the Summer Weather Since you’ll likely be battling the heat, it’s important to opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that will help you stay cool. Some great materials for the summer weather include: Satin: A smooth material with a glossy, sophisticated appearance. Great for cocktail dresses. Cotton: A soft-to-the-touch, fluffy material. Despite its texture, cotton remains comfortable to wear in the heat since it’s still lightweight. Linen: A flax-based material that’s durable and absorbent. Due to its absorbent properties, it dries quickly and is a particularly ideal material for people who tend to sweat. Silk: A famously luxurious material that’s lightweight and breathable with a shiny appearance. Well-suited to more sophisticated events (think weddings and exclusive dinner parties). Chambray: A plain-weave fabric typically made from cotton or linen. Resembles denim in appearance, but provides a softer feel. Rayon: A semi-synthetic fiber that has a silk-like, luxurious sheen. Breathable and often used in drapey attire (such as athletic wear and flowy dresses). Chiffon: A sheer, lightweight fabric. Rough-to-the-touch, but has a gorgeous flowy appearance. Avoid wool, cashmere, and synthetic materials like nylon and polyester. You should also keep layers to a minimum — less is more when it comes to staying stylish (and cool!) Summer Cocktail Attire Ideas for Women: Top Picks This Season Below, we’ll share some of our top summer cocktail outfit ideas for this season to inspire you. However, remember that you should always focus on choosing attire that you feel confident and comfortable in, regardless of whether it’s on trend. Don’t forget to factor in the type of event you’re attending too. A beach wedding will require a more laid back summer cocktail outfit, while a dinner party at a 5-star hotel will call for luxurious materials, like silk and satin. Keep It Classic With a Knee-Length Cocktail Dress A knee-length cocktail dress is a staple look, and it’s not hard to understand why; it’s universally flattering and offers the perfect mix of sophistication and comfort. This dress style is also incredibly versatile since you can dress it up or down effortlessly with accessories. For example, you can pair a cream cocktail dress with sandals for a casual look, or transform the dress into a sophisticated showstopper with a sleek clutch bag and pair of black stilettos. Just be mindful of the heat when picking out your dress. Avoid tight-fitting, constricting bodycon styles and instead opt for looser, more breathable silhouettes, like A-line or fit and flare. Ruffles and Pleats Combo Combining different textures adds dimension to your outfit and helps to capture the more playful, lively side of the summer season. While we always recommend experimenting with various materials in your wardrobe to find flattering combos, you can’t go wrong with ruffles and pleats. These textures are both strongly associated with summer and bring a light, airy, yet elegant feel to your attire. Pair a cream ruffle blouse with dark pleated, smart trousers for a striking look that will suit any occasion. You can also opt for a midi-length pleated dress with a ruffled clutch bag. Stun the Crowd With a Daring Jumpsuit A jumpsuit provides a sophisticated yet bold look that’s sure to make you feel empowered and beautiful. Plus, it comes with the bonus of being incredibly comfortable to wear! You don’t have to worry about the fabric feeling too tight in places or the material riding up your legs while you move; you can dance freely, relax, and focus on the day itself. A jumpsuit is a statement in itself, but if you do want to take things up a notch, consider accessorizing with a blazer, gold belt, and matching chunky earrings. Be aware that a jumpsuit is going to make you the center of attention, particularly if you opt for a vibrant color like red. Due to this, a jumpsuit may not be the best choice if you’re attending a wedding as a guest. Trendy Summer Cocktail Attire Outfit Ideas for Men Now it’s time to shine a spotlight on some trendy summer cocktail outfit ideas for men! Keep It Sleek and Casual In the summer heat, you can forgo a traditional blazer and create a sleek and casual look with a tucked-in cream dress shirt, chinos, and black or brown loafers. You’re sure to come across as effortlessly polished, and this outfit is particularly well-suited to summer cocktail events that lean more casual than formal — think boho weddings and beach parties. Add Sophistication With a Sports Jacket A sports jacket, or sports coat, is the definition of summer cocktail attire. As a more laidback, breathable blazer, it offers a fantastic blend between formal and casual while managing to be comfortable in hot weather. Sports jackets come in an array of designs, so you’re sure to find one that suits your preferences, physique, and the style of event. With that said, try to avoid overly bright, harsh colors. Soft hues like cream, light grey, and pastel blue will help introduce that summer vibe. Make a Statement With a Checked Blazer A checked blazer may not fly at a formal, traditional cocktail event, but it works wonderfully for a summer cocktail vibe! Pair this look with tailored trousers and a matching pocket square, and you’re sure to draw all eyes on you. Since checked can lean into the more casual territory, stick to sophisticated neutral hues like dark grey, brown, and navy blue. Where Can I Buy Summer Cocktail Attire? Summer cocktail attire isn’t hard to find; the dress code is trending this season and becoming more popular than ever. You can find suitable outfits from a variety of online fashion shops, each catering to different budgets, events, and tastes. You can also take a trip to the mall or hunt for hidden gems at vintage boutiques. “Summering” Up Your Attire Summer cocktail attire is a timeless, versatile style that allows for plenty of creativity, self-expression, and comfort. While this dress code can be hard to wrap your head around, we hope our tips and ideas above have helped you put together an outfit that fits the vibe perfectly. Don’t forget to factor in comfort when styling your outfit. Layering with a blazer and accessories to bring in texture and dimension may look gorgeous, but it’ll be intolerable to wear under the hot summer sun! Tags:  Trending

We are all in our Taylor Swift Eras era at the moment. She is the queen of reinvention, constantly experimenting with different styles of music and different fashion aesthetics, from her preppy looks for 1989 to her more dreamy, 70s-inspired looks for Midnights. If you’ve been feeling like you need a shake-up, she’s a great source of inspiration. Red is a color full of symbolism in culture at large, but also in Swift’s music. So, if you’re looking to choose a show-stopping red look for an event, or you’re trying to find an outfit inspired by Swift’s Red album for your Eras look, we have you covered. You can be a show-stopper in these Taylor Swift-inspired red outfits. Swift’s Most Iconic Red Outfits Taylor Swift has worn a variety of red dresses and even released an album entitled Red, released in 2012. It’s clearly an important color she’s used many times over the years. Red is also a great color to wear for formal events. “I Bet You Think About Me” Music Video In 2021 Swift released a new music video for her vault track, “I Bet You Think About Me” with Chris Stapleton. The video took place at a wedding where all of the guests are in white, but Swift appears like a specter in red, haunting the groom. She changes outfits a few times throughout the video, representing different people at the wedding, from a staff uniform to a flower girl’s dress, to a huge blood-red bridal gown, with a few others in between. Recreate the Look There is a lot of inspiration you can mine in this music video. You could do a bold monochrome look in a red suit and red shirt, as Swift wears in one scene where she fills the role of a groomsman. Her wedding guest outfit is also a long, sleek red gown with huge flower details on the shoulders. Choose a dress with a similar silhouette, and you could potentially add a jacket or DIY flowered shoulders if you can’t find an exact match. For the wedding dress look, however, you’ll want a ball gown with layers of tulle. While red wedding dresses may still be hard to find in parts of America, a floor-length red formal gown with the same vibes can get you pretty close. A sleeveless gown with some corsetted support will help hold up the weight of the skirt without adding straps. The Red Tour When touring her album Red, it should be no surprise that the color made an appearance several times in her costumes. During the Red tour, she performed some classic favorites from earlier albums, such as “You Belong With Me.” In concert, she spiced up the song with a jazzy retro vibe, reminiscent of a World War 2 USO show. Her short and sparkling red dress adds to the vintage vibe with a sweetheart neckline, flouncy skirt, and matching red elbow-length gloves. During the same tour, she sported another vintage-inspired red dress for her performance of “Lucky Ones.” The bodice of her dress has a plunging v-neck, with an attached full-length swishy skirt, a la Marilyn Monroe, but with a twist. The front part of the skirt is left open, revealing shimmering red tap pants. The look is paired with red gloves again and heeled red booties. For the performance of “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” and some of the promotional photos for the tour, Swift wore a circus ringleader costume with a sparking crimson jacket and heeled boots with red details. Recreate the Look Out of all the looks from the Red tour, most people are looking to recreate her “You Belong With Me” or “Lucky Ones” outfits. However, we won’t judge if you want to have a Swift-inspired circus look for a night out. For her retro look from “You Belong With Me,” a red mini dress with sequins and glitter will capture that sweet vintage style, particularly if the dress has an A-line shape and a sweetheart neckline. The “Lucky Ones dress brings a very elegant and classic formalwear look. A sleeveless dress with a plunging neckline is daring, but the floor-length, full skirt makes it a more mature style. If you want to recreate the look exactly, you may need to partner with a seamstress or tailor to open up the front of the dress to reveal red shorts. Or you could simply leave it as-is, just a nod to the look, rather than an exact replica. The most iconic element is definitely adding some red satin elbow-length gloves. For both outfits, it ties the looks together. For the “You Belong With Me” look, it adds an element of retro costuming that makes it look more like something a singer in the 1940s would wear. For “Lucky Ones,” it pulls together an elegant and dramatic style. At Award Shows Swift makes frequent appearances at award shows and has memorably won a few as well. Sometimes she brings out a red look for those nights. During her Red era, she wore a red gown to the 2012 Billboard Music Awards. The dress was an edgier, sexier style, though it didn’t show a ton of skin. Made of layers of light, sheer material, the gathered skirt hung to the ground. The top portion of the dress was made from panels of sheer lace intersected with solid straps. The style felt like a piece of lingerie with its contrasting panels and the light sheer skirt. 2009 is probably the most well-known appearance Swift made at an award show. In 2009 Swift was transitioning from her early days as a country artist to being a mainstream pop singer. She won Best Video by a Female Artist at the MTV Music Awards and was famously interrupted by Kanye during her acceptance speech. At the time, she was wearing a silver one-shoulder gown covered in sequins. However, after that infamous event, Swift performed at the show, wearing a strapless vintage red dress. With a full skirt and a ruched bodice, complete with a sweetheart neckline, that dress got its time to shine during her performance, and when Beyonce graciously invited her back onstage to finish her speech later. Recreate the Look To channel the understated sexiness of Swift’s lingerie dress, look for a dress that has similar sheer paneling. A dress that is lined with flesh-tone fabric will hint at sheerness without actually being sheer, keeping any undergarments a secret. Lightweight, floaty, gauzy fabric and lace details are also commonly seen on lingerie and hint at feminine sexiness. A classic early Swift look, the MTV Music Awards dress featured spaghetti straps, but it would work just as well strapless. Choose something with a fit and flair shape, and look for a dress that has a few layers of fabric. The dress she wore was simple, but the ruched gauzed fabric across the bodice gave it more visual detail and the skirt also featured a layer of sheer gauze. Red Era Inspiration Of course, if you’re trying to put together an iconic look from the Red era for your Eras tour party, you don’t have to literally wear a red dress. There are other fun looks you can play with as inspiration. Short Shorts Swift perfectly encapsulated the early 2010s mania for quirky fashion. Her penchant for short shorts reflected the styles of the time, and she even opened her Red tour in a pair of black pleather shorts and a white blouse. This mix of tiny pleather shorts and a more professional-looking blouse (not to mention a fedora) just screams 2012. She brings back a shorts look later in the concert, but red and sparkling. First, under her “Lucky Ones” gown, and then later with a tee shirt and red sneakers. This is an easy look to recreate. Choose a pair of shorts with a high waist to really capture that vintage-inspired silhouette that defined this era of fashion for Swift. “I Knew You Were Trouble” During performances of “I Knew You Were Trouble” on the Red tour, Swift starts in a puffy white wedding dress, but mid-way through the song, she is stripped of it, revealing a black bodysuit. This also pairs with a transition into a dubstep arrangement of the tune. The body suit has gold embroidery up the legs, lace sleeves, and lace cut-outs on the abdomen. You could find a black sleeveless romper or a sleeveless black dress and add a lace shirt underneath to give a similar effect. Depending on your DIY skills, you could even add the gold embroidery and cut-outs if you have trouble finding an option that has those features. Skinny Jeans and Stripes If you aren’t looking to recreate a particular outfit, but would rather just capture Taylor Swift’s general fashion vibe from this era, you can’t go wrong with skinny jeans, a striped blouse, and Oxford flats. Swift was frequently seen in variations of this combo in performance and on the street. You could even do the skinny jeans in red, as she was seen sporting a few times. Add some sparkle to the shoes, and you have a classic 2010s Swift outfit. Loving Dressing in Red Taylor Swift is iconic for experimenting with music and style aesthetics, which can be a huge inspiration. You can channel some of her most iconic red dresses for your next formal event. Or you can have fun with a more casual look for your Eras tour viewing outfit if Red is the era you want to represent. Tags:  Trending

The 1990s are one of the most iconic periods of fashion, and this time period is one that many of us remember living through. Whether you were born in the 90s, you were a teenager during this time, or you are looking back at the unique fashions of the 1990s now, there is plenty to choose from when it comes to celebrating this era with a party. Our article gives you the best 90s party outfit ideas so you have an idea of what to wear to your next 90s-themed party, whether it’s a themed club night or a nostalgic birthday dinner. Celebrating an Iconic Fashion Period In the 1990s, fashion across the United States began settling down from the over-the-top styles of the 80s. Fashion became more casual, more comfortable, and somewhat minimalistic as people began adopting styles complete with baggy pants, t-shirts, and loose slip dresses. The 1990s was also when the supermodel era peaked, and the general trend for women at the time was to be skinny and embrace clothes that enhanced this body type. Subculture influences abounded in the 1990s, as did more mainstream influences like movies and TV shows. The sitcom Friends is especially notable for the influence the actor’s and actress’s fashion choices had on the 90s in general. With the rise of grunge music and bands like Nirvana in the 90s, this casual style and a sense of shifting away from the glamourous 90s styles became ever more popular. It’s also important to note that the 90s gave rise to the trend of vintage fashion, and second-hand stores became incredibly popular during this time. This went for individuals looking for clothing to match a specific subculture, as well as those looking for the next trendiest item. Simple outfits and utilitarian styles reigned until the end of the 90s. Then, more bohemian styles started to show their popularity, ushering in an era of low-cut jeans and crop tops as we entered the early 2000s. While the 90s was host to a wide range of different fashions, some are more notable and distinct than others. Cargo pants, baggy clothing, flannel shirts with ripped jeans, and crop tops all take the lead for the most popular 90s styles. 90s Party Outfit Ideas: What to Wear The following 90s party outfit ideas can be worn by anyone who wants to embrace the 90s style at their next party: Cargo pants and a crop top A slip dress and heels, for a more formal occasion Neon colors, or a neon tracksuit Baggy pants and a T-shirt Denim overalls Matching plaid skirt sets Cropped T-shirts with a cardigan and khakis or a mini-skirt Graphic t-shirts with ripped or baggy jeans Clothing with plenty of animal prints, tie-dye, or rhinestones Additionally, the 90s brought plenty of accessories, and no 90s party dress would be complete without the addition of bucket hats, sunglasses, chokers, chains, and other distinctive items. You can mix and match these accessories to craft the perfect look. If you are trying to capture the makeup look of the 90s, you can also embrace bright blue or colorful eyeshadows, dark lip liners, and facial glitter or jewelry. Where Can I Buy 90s Party Outfits? 90s party outfits shouldn’t be too hard to find these days, as many stores and fashion brands are embracing 90s looks today. You can go to your local mall or department stores to find 90s items, and thrift stores are a great place to locate 90s outfits that may have been donated. You can also order your 90s party outfit online, including ordering accessories online, but keep in mind any shipping timelines and the potential need for returns or exchanges if you do so. You don’t want to be waiting until the last minute and then end up without a great 90s outfit for your party. How Do I Accessorize My 90s Party Outfit? Accessorizing your 90s party outfit can be overwhelming, as there are plenty of accessories from the 1990s that have made their way back into popular fashion today. Chokers, cat’s eye glasses, gold chunky jewelry, and even bucket hats are all great choices for embracing the 90s style while still looking your most fashionable. We also recommend chunky high heels, platform sneakers, loafers, and flats as the best 90s-inspired shoe choices to complete your outfit. Where Can I Wear My 90s Outfit? Outside of your next 90s party, your 90s-inspired outfit might be a good fit for today’s fashion. Many of the items that we associate with the 90s, including crop tops, cardigans, sheer dresses, and even chokers, are making their way back into the mainstream of fashion trends. Your 90s party outfit can easily be used as an outfit for a night out on the town or a day spent exploring your city with friends. Keeping the 90s Alive The 1990s are one of the most iconic periods of fashion, with plenty of fashion wins and trends that are gaining renewed popularity today. Whether you are dressing for a 90s party, or you are taking these 90s-inspired looks into your everyday life, it’s important to find an outfit that you feel comfortable and confident in. From there, you can keep the 90s alive with your fashion and embrace this unique period in the fashion world. Tags:  Party

Is there anything as iconic in modern fashion as the little black dress, or LBD as some call it? Black used to be associated with death and mourning, but for about a hundred years now, it’s considered the perfect chic color for a wide range of occasions. Since black dresses have been the fashionable look for about a hundred years now, you may wonder what the options are for styling one without looking boring. After all, you don’t want to look the same as every other woman at the event. Fortunately, black goes with everything. Whether retro or modern, you can choose the black dress that speaks the most to your style and create a unique outfit for your next night out. In this guide, we’ll give you some inspiration for your next little black dress, and we’ll give you some black dress outfit ideas to help you restyle the ones you already have. Retro-Inspired Black Dress Outfit Ideas Since the black dress hasn’t gone out of fashion for decades, there are plenty of styles from throughout history that can supply inspiration for your next look. 1920s Chic Despite the persistent myth that women only wore fringed flapper dresses during the 1920s, the decade had many styles that won’t look as much like a costume if you wear them. Drop-waist silhouettes were on trend at the time. The waistline of the dress would start at the hips, creating a long, drapey look. You can make a nod to flapper fashion by having a dress with tiered skirt panels or a little fringe detail without looking like you’re heading to a murder mystery party. Add some sparkle details like a broach or choose a dress with some beading or sequins. Lace overlays were also popular during this era. 1940s New Look Dior made waves by launching their “new look” collection just after the end of World War 2. This style was specifically made to contrast the austerity and practical dress seen during the war, using a lot of fabric in its designs. One of the most iconic looks from the collection was a black dress with a v-neck and an extremely full skirt reaching just above the ankles. The silhouette nips the wearer’s waist before flaring out into a large skirt. In this collection, a skirt and jacket combo, called the Bar Suit was also popular. It combined a full pleated skirt with a long white jacket that also nipped the waist. You could get inspiration from this style by choosing a black dress with a fit and flare silhouette. Add a white blazer that follows your curves, some pearls, and black pumps to embody this iconic post-war look. You could also forgo the blazer and add a belt to further emphasize your waist. 1960s Hepburn In 1961 the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s launched Audrey Hepburn to new levels of global stardom. It also popularized the name “Tiffany” for girls and featured several iconic looks. The most well-known outfit that Hepburn sports is in the opening scene of the film and once again later on. Hepburn is coming home from an all-night party, having coffee and a pastry in front of the window of Tiffany’s shop, looking at the jewelry. In this scene, she wears a sleekly fitted full-length black dress with an elegant boat neck, slightly open at the back. She styles it with long black satin gloves, an extravagant pearl necklace, black heels, and a pair of sunglasses. To capture this iconic look for yourself for a dramatic night out or even a gala, find a long black dress that fits you like a glove. The style intentionally shows very little skin but rather exhibits your body shape instead. A string of pearls, a bun piled on top of your head, and some elbow-length gloves will make your fashion homage clear. 1890s/1980s Victorian Goth The late Victorian era saw a shift in fashion. While the 1880s saw a bustled skirt trend, the 1890s moved to a more natural, A-line shape that didn’t need as many supports or as much fabric to create the ideal silhouette. Puffed and ruffled sleeves tapering to fitted wrists were also a trend at the time. Mourning wear was still a societal trend in this era, with different levels of mourning being observed depending on how close a person was to you. This cult of mourning appealed to the goth sub-culture of the 1980s and some of the styles of this era were revived. All-black outfits featuring lace, ruffles, puffed sleeves, and white collared shirts came into fashion. Huge sleeves even entered mainstream fashion in the 1980s. You can stand out in a Victorian mourning-inspired ensemble whether you take direct inspiration from that era, or from the goth fashions of the 1980s. Choose a dress with an A-line shape and large puff sleeves to create the right silhouette. You can also add a lacy element by layering a lace blouse underneath your dress or wearing lace gloves. You could also wear a collared white blouse under a black dress with a more open neck to allude to the neo-Victorian style. Black leather ankle boots also work well for both eras. Colorful opaque tights or fishnets will add a bold pop to the look. Restyling a Black Dress in Your Closet The best way to have a more sustainable wardrobe is to wear what you already have as much as possible. By styling your black dress with different accessories, you can wear it for more occasions for many years to come. Casual Styling Black Dress Outfit Ideas While a little black dress is a staple at any formal event, many black dresses can also be styled for daytime wear or more casual events. This works particularly well for black dresses that are around knee-length and have little embellishment. Sweet and Simple Styling a simple black dress with a colorful cardigan and some ballet flats creates a sweet, but polished look you can wear to many occasions. It would be perfect for a brunch or lunch date or even just running errands. Add some stud earrings and a half-up hairdo to complete this gentle feminine look. Edgy Looks A black dress can also be styled in a cooler, edgier way. You can add a sheer lace blouse underneath to create texture in the outfit. Fishnet stockings or a motorcycle jacket also look great with a basic black dress and can make even a simple dress work great for a club night. Heavy-soled leather boots ground the look. Adding some strong metal jewelry, like a thick chain or cuff bracelet also give a harder edge to the style. Creative Layering A black dress can also be styled in an artistic boho style. Just because something is a dress doesn’t mean you can’t wear it as a blouse. Wear a flowy maxi skirt over your dress to give it a totally different look. You can leave the top of the dress as-is, or wear an open button-down blouse on top. Knot it at the front if you want to define your waist or leave it loose for a breezy look. Leather sandals or even light-soled sneakers work well with this style. You can also play with accessories like big earrings, long necklaces, and colorful scarves. The only thing to limit you is your imagination. Workwear Black Dress Outfit Ideas Black dresses can also be integrated into workwear. There are a few ways you can style them for the office. Officewear If you work in a traditional office where suits and other more professional looks are the norm, you can wear many black dresses day-to-day in the office. Adding a blazer can create a more professional look. You might also add some sheer stockings and low-heeled pumps for a more traditional office. A neat cardigan could also take the place of a blazer. If the neckline of your dress is lower than you’re comfortable wearing at the office, you could layer a camisole or a collared blouse underneath. Office Events Many workplaces will have holiday parties or dinner events for their employees once or twice a year. You can wear your favorite black dress for that occasion as well. Depending on how formal the event is or what time of year it takes place, you may want to wear a sweater or a wrap over your dress. Wear whatever shoes you’re comfortable in that suit the event. If all your male colleagues are likely to show up in khakis and polo shirts, don’t sweat wearing some simple ballet flats for the party. Get More Wear Out of Your Little Black Dress As you can see, there are so many iterations of the black dress in fashion that you really can’t go wrong. Put your own mark on the classic look by choosing a style of black dress that you love. Get the most out of it by styling it to wear in other areas of your life as well. Tags:  Trending

It’s garden party season! If you live in the part of the country where you spend half the year under snow, you know how important it is to use this precious time to enjoy being outside without the risk of frostbite. If you’ve been invited to some garden parties or are planning your own, you might be a little unclear on what the dress code is for these events. While it does vary depending on the exact nature of the party, there are some basic guidelines to keep in mind so you can enjoy your garden party to the fullest. Garden Party Attire By Theme While you might be down to party any time, most parties have a theme of some kind or are celebrating a specific event. It’s important to know the level of formality is going to be based on the kind of event. Here are some of the most common themes for a garden party. Bridal or Baby Shower A bridal shower is a great event to hold outdoors. Baby showers can also be celebrated with a garden party. For either event, the dress code is likely going to focus on fun, feminine, and flirty looks. Some showers will have specific colors chosen for the guests to wear, but even if that’s the case, you still have room to be creative with your outfit. You could wear something bright with a floral theme to fit the garden setting. A floral dress or a playful two-piece set works well for this kind of theme. Brunch or Tea Party When the weather is nice, there’s nothing better than having a girls’ brunch or a tea party. It’s the perfect setting to have fun with frothy feminine outfits. Enjoy dressing up in your most over-the-top floral maxi dress, and maybe choose a color theme for everyone to dress in. You can add fascinators or tiaras and costume jewelry to lean into a princess theme, letting out your inner royalty. If you’re looking for more comprehensive tea party outfit ideas, we have plenty of tips here. Graduation Garden Party Attire Whether it’s your graduation or the graduation of someone you love, it’s the perfect occasion to get outside and celebrate. A graduation garden party can be more casual or more formal, depending on the graduate’s preference. Either way, a graduation party, especially one held in the evening, can be a great event to wear a sleeker look. A cocktail dress could be a good options, but we also love the way a fitted jumpsuit mixes playfulness and sophistication. Of course, there are plenty of different kinds of graduation parties, and different outfits might be more appropriate than others, depending on the theme. BBQ Garden Patry Attire While it may be a bit of a stretch to call a barbecue a garden party, it’s still an outdoor get-together where you can enjoy good friends, good food, and a lovely setting. Since the vibe is more casual, a breezy cotton sundress in a pastel color might be a good option. If you prefer shorts in the summer, a romper can be a cute one-piece option that provides the convenience of shorts while giving to the polished style you normally get from a dress. Dinner Garden Party Attire Dining alfresco and by candlelight can be a fun and romantic party idea. If you’re going to enjoy a nice dinner in a garden this season, you’ll want to be dressed to match the setting. A dress with some sequins or glitter is perfect for catching candlelight and making you look luminous. Instead of going with a classic little black dress, try a brighter color for an unexpected look. White and pastel colors are often better suited to warm weather and outdoor settings, so choose a dress with a more traditionally formal style, but in a light color. Preparing for Outdoor Parties Choosing your dress or jumpsuit for an event is only one part of looking your best and enjoying your time at a garden party. While outdoor parties are a lot of fun, they also have a lot of variables to account for. Choosing Shoes We all want to be comfortable and choosing the right shoe can make a huge impact on the way your body feels at the end of a long day. When you’re attending an outdoor event, it’s important to consider the terrain you’ll be on. If you’re on a lawn, anything with narrow heels can sink into the soil. A gravel courtyard can make wearing sandals or open-toes shoes a real pain, so check in advance if you can. Wedge heels are a great summer option that won’t sink. Close-toed leather sandals can also be a good choice if they are cute, comfortable, and won’t make your feet too hot. UV Protection While some of us enjoy getting a tan, others only burn. Regardless of how your skin responds in the moment, skin cancer is no joke, so you should use some form of sun protection. There are plenty of lightweight sunscreens on the market that leave no white cast, but clothing is the best protection since it can’t be washed off and doesn’t need reapplication. Consider a light summer cardigan or a linen shirt to protect your shoulders and arms if your outfit is sleeveless. A cute sun hat can also protect your face, neck, and shoulders. Sweat Control If your event takes place in the afternoon, you may be outside during the hottest part of the day. Some people are especially sensitive to heat and prone to dehydration, so if you’re one of those people, you may have to take a few extra precautions. Stay hydrated! If you’re sweating, it’s important to keep drinking. Remember that alcohol can make you more prone to dehydration and heat exhaustion, so stick to water or electrolyte drinks. Keep makeup light. You don’t want a full face of heavy makeup to turn into a drippy mess. Stick to something light like a BB cream with SPF and some waterproof mascara to last the day. You may want to pack some oil-wicking paper to dab your T-zone before pictures if you don’t like to look shiny. Invest in some dress shields. If you worry about staining the armpits of your dress with sweat or deodorant, you can purchase a pack of dress shields. These are liners that catch any sweat and residue and protect your clothes. They work best with sleeves. Bring a fan. You can choose a simple fold-up fan or get a battery-operated fan to help cool you off when there is no breeze. Bloom at Your Next Garden Party Worrying about what to wear shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying all the outdoor events of the season. No matter what the occasion, you should celebrate at your next garden party looking your best and feeling good. We hope this guide has inspired some outfit ideas and helped you prepare to stay cool at your next soiree. Tags:  Party

Taylor Swift Midnights Outfit Ideas Whether you are dressing up for the Eras Tour or you are trying to bring more Taylor Swift into your life, matching your outfits to the vibe of Swift’s 2022 Midnights album is a fun challenge. There are plenty of different options for outfits in the female, male, or gender-neutral space that can reflect the feelings and emotions being the Midnights album. You can even mix and match these elements until you create your perfect Midnights-inspired outfit. Our guide gives you the details so you can get started crafting the perfect Taylor Swift-style look. Taylor Swift Midnights Taylor Swift’s album Midnights was released in October of 2022, and it is the tenth studio album Swift has released. The album was intended as a concept album, which is an album where the collection of songs and their emotions or meaning is the overall message, rather than each song individually meaning something specific. The themes expressed in Taylor Swift’s Midnights album include regrets and fantasies, heartbreak and infatuation, and self-criticism. It includes confessional lyrics inspired by Swift’s personal life and public image. The album is supposedly inspired by the sleepless nights Swift spent thinking and ruminating about her life. Midnights debuted to great success, with notable tracks such as “Anti-Hero,” “Karma,” and “Lavender Haze” topping the music charts. Overall, Midnights is about love and the many reflections that may occur as a result of love and loss. What Is the Midnights Era Vibe? The vibe of Midnights is characterized by a more vintage, 1970s-style aesthetic. This aesthetic is almost nostalgic, and it brings with it plenty of 1970s-themed clothing and the notable colors of rust, navy, greens, and tan. Sweaters, corduroy fabrics, and flare jeans all capture the Midnights vibe, as do denim shorts, gold hoop earrings, and cat-eye makeup. Overall, Midnights has a vibe that is classy, somewhat casual, and yet still eye-catching and reminiscent of days gone by – think dressing up for a nightclub but with a retro flair. Though there are still some traces of glam found in the music videos that go along with Midnights, and you can incorporate this into your looks. Midnights Outfit Ideas There are many different potential outfits that you could wear to match the theme of the Midnights album. Below, we give you some simple and easy outfit ideas to put together that allow you to stay true to the theme of this album while incorporating some of your own unique style. 1970s-style cropped sweaters or collared t-shirts with corduroy or denim bottoms (this can be pants, skirts, or shorts) Oversized T-shirts with leggings or a pair of shorts A glamorous jumpsuit with 1970s jewelry to match Colorful striped bodysuit and a pair of red sparkly shorts Sparkling shirts or clothing embroidered with sequins and sparkles Classic t-shirts with a 1970s-inspired cardigan, shorts, and gold or silver hoop jewelry Make sure to mix and match pieces as needed to create the perfect look. Don’t hesitate to dress your look up or down with some glam, such as the distinctive faux fur purple “Lavender Haze” jacket Taylor Swift wears during her Eras Tour and in the “Lavender Haze” music video. Also, remember to pair your Midnights outfit with a makeup and hair look that brings your outfit together and is reminiscent of Taylor’s style in this musical era. If you aren’t looking to recreate outfits from the music videos, you can also base your Midnights outfit look on the vibe of this album, which is moody but romantic and reflective. Dark clothing, black dresses complete with moon and star patterns, or jeans and moody t-shirts can all embrace the Taylor Swift Midnights style. How Do I Get Ready for the Eras Tour? The Eras Tour is one of the most anticipated and attended tours in recent years, and there are plenty of ways to get ready for this tour if you have tickets. Most importantly, you should double-check all venue rules and ensure that you are not carrying items into a venue that might be prohibited or dressing in a way that will disallow you entry. Some venues do not allow certain clothing items or items like tall hats that can obscure the vision of others. Once you have made sure that you are following all venue rules, you can put on your favorite Taylor Swift eras-inspired outfit, like one of our Midnights outfit recommendations from above. Match this with a comfortable pair of shoes, grab some earplugs if necessary, and get ready to enjoy your night out at the Eras Tour. Do I Need to Go to the Eras Tour to Wear My Midnights Outfit? While many people choose to dress up like one of Taylor Swift’s musical eras for the Eras Tour, you don’t need to do this to attend the concert. You can wear your Midnights outfit to the concert, or you can wear it anywhere else you feel like going, such as on a night out with friends, to a movie theater, or as part of a costume party. Just make sure that your outfit matches any dress code requirements for the venue you are attending to avoid an accidental Taylor Swift fashion faux pas. Where Can I Find Midnights Outfit Items? You may be able to find clothing items to create your Midnights outfit in many different places, including local malls, boutique stores, and thrift stores. Thrift stores may be especially helpful for outfits based on the Midnights album, as the album is characterized by more vintage and 1970s looks with hints of glam. If you are having trouble finding suitable outfit items in person, you may want to shop online stores for your Midnights outfit items. However, make sure that you look at all sizing details and pay special attention to shipping details to ensure that your Midnights outfit will be ready and perfectly fit when you need it. Dressing Your T-Swift Best Matching your outfits to the ever-popular Taylor Swift and her musical eras is a great way to show your love for this artist and incorporate some new styles into your wardrobe. We recommend reviewing our list of outfit ideas in addition to taking the time to watch Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour videos and her music videos from the Midnights album. This will help you gather ideas for how you want to style your next look and gain T-Swift outfit inspiration. Tags:  Trending

Rehearsal dinners are typically more formal events than a bridal shower that occur the day before a wedding takes place. The rehearsal dinner is an older tradition, but many brides and grooms choose to use the rehearsal dinner as a way to enjoy their time with their families and friends before the big day. If you have been invited to a rehearsal dinner, you are likely wondering what to wear and how to dress appropriately for the event. Our article gives you essential tips on what to wear to a rehearsal dinner. What Is a Rehearsal Dinner? A rehearsal dinner is the dinner that occurs after a wedding rehearsal takes place. The wedding rehearsal is where the wedding party will practice walking down the aisle and ensuring that everything is ready for the big day. Wedding rehearsals and rehearsal dinners typically occur within a few days before the actual wedding date. Traditionally, the groom’s family plans and pays for the rehearsal dinner, though this tradition is not seen as binding in today’s modern wedding world. In general, the rehearsal dinner will be held at a nearby venue that provides guests with food and drinks to celebrate a successful wedding rehearsal and the wedding date. As such, rehearsal dinners are often called the ‘party before the party.’ Considerations for Choosing Your Rehearsal Dinner Outfit As you start to choose your rehearsal dinner outfit, there are a few things you will need to keep in mind to ensure that the outfit you choose is both stylish and appropriate for the occasion. We list these factors below so you can review them before thinking about which rehearsal dinner style is best for you. Location The location and venue of your rehearsal dinner event are especially important to keep in mind, as many locations may have a variety of dress code requirements or unique vibes that you will need to dress appropriately for. For example, if a rehearsal dinner is being held at a beach-front bar or restaurant, then an outfit that is lighter and more flowy may be more appropriate. Alternatively, if a rehearsal dinner is being held within an upscale hotel bar or restaurant, then you might need to dress with more formality and add things like high heels to your outfit. The location of your rehearsal dinner event should be listed on the invitation. If you have any questions about a venue or location, you should contact the organization or the bride and groom to ensure you are prepared for the event. Dress Code Requests Sometimes, the bride and groom will make certain dress code requests for those attending their wedding. This could be things like all-black attire, formal evening gowns, or semi-casual attire. They may even ask for a specific theme, like the 1920s or Western styling. Specific colors or patterns may be requested, or the bride and groom may ask you to avoid wearing certain colors. It’s important to pay attention to these requests and keep them in mind as you choose your own rehearsal dinner outfit. Following dress code requests shows respect to the bride and groom and ensures that you don’t accidentally commit a fashion faux pas. Weather and Season The weather and season in which your rehearsal dinner is being held can often factor into the type of outfit you wear for your rehearsal dinner. Fall and winter rehearsal dinners typically call for indoor venues, and you may need an outfit that is more layered or features jackets and other warm accessories like scarves. On the other hand, spring and summer rehearsal dinners could be held outdoors, which means you might need lighter and brighter clothing. You may want to match the theme of the season by wearing pastels, floral patterns, or other brighter and summery colors. Accessories Another consideration to make when choosing your rehearsal dinner outfit is whether or not you wish to accessorize your outfit. You may also want to think about specific accessories to pair with your outfit. Certain jackets, shoes, ties, or items of jewelry may only look good with specific dresses, skirts, pants, or colors. It is always important to keep this in mind when dressing for any event, but especially something like a rehearsal dinner. What to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner Figuring out what to wear to a rehearsal dinner can be confusing, as you will need to keep several factors in mind as you decide on your outfit. Below, we give you ideas and suggestions on what to wear to a rehearsal dinner no matter your role in the wedding you are attending. As a Member of the Wedding Party Members of the wedding party include the bride and groom and bridesmaids or groomsmen. In general, you can expect a rehearsal dinner to be a more upscale event than a bachelorette or bachelor party. Dress code expectations do vary depending on what the bride and groom have requested. However, a more modest outfit such as a slip dress or longer cocktail dress, a classy jumpsuit, or a tailored pair of pants and a collared shirt are all great options. As a Parent or Family Member Depending on what the married couple-to-be requests, parents and family members may need to follow a certain dress code, such as all-black attire or formal attire. These specific attire requests are often made to ensure that photographs turn out looking uniform. You can expect the formality to be a step up from casual yet not as formal as you will need to wear during the wedding. Longer dresses, tailored suits, and skirts with blouses are all great options for rehearsal dinner outfits. As a Friend For friends and other loved ones who are invited to a rehearsal dinner, it’s important to keep in mind the general rules of etiquette for a wedding. Avoid the color white, and avoid making any risky fashion choices or wearing a super revealing outfit to the rehearsal dinner. Your outfit should be classy, somewhat formal, and match the vibe of the venue you are attending. Dresses, skirts with blouses, and a pair of dress pants and a blouse or collared shirt are all great options for rehearsal dinner outfits. Where Can I Buy My Rehearsal Dinner Outfit? Once you have a good idea of what you want to wear to a rehearsal dinner, you may be wondering where to get your outfit or if you can purchase them online or in person. In general, you may be able to find your rehearsal dinner outfit at local malls or boutique stores, as these stores carry a range of outfits that can match all formality styles. If you are shopping on a budget, a thrift store may be a good idea, or you can search for your rehearsal dinner outfit online. However, remember to leave enough time for shipping and returns if you do plan on ordering your rehearsal outfit from an online store. Keeping It Stylish at Your Next Rehearsal Dinner Rehearsal dinners are often fun, carefree events that tend to be more formal than the other events that can lead up to a wedding date. It’s always important to keep dress code requirements and other important venue and location factors in mind when choosing your rehearsal dinner outfit. You should always follow the rules of wedding etiquette as you pick an outfit to wear while you celebrate a bride and groom. Tags:  Bridal