Look Dressy Without A Dress

Dress up and feel comfortable.

When we hear the terms "Dressy" or Dressing Up," our minds jump to formal gowns or cocktail dresses. However, many women prefer a more comfortable and versatile look when they need to dress up, especially if the event is a lengthy one. There are many ways to appear refined and dressy without wearing a dress.

Wear Solid Color Dressy Tops

Dressy tops in black, white, red or blue can fit into almost anybody's budget and they are easily redressed for different occasions. A nice top can be paired with a pair of slacks, jeans or skirt to fit the event. Solid-color tops appear more refined than prints and neutral-colored tops can be paired with a wide array of colors for accessories. Match the accessories to the top and the occasion. A common rule is that if the top is ornate or ruffled around the neck, skip the necklace and choose a bracelet and earrings. Overpowering accessories or large accessories can appear gaudy or overdone. Keep the look simple and sleek.

Select a Fitted Jacket

Slim-fitted jackets worn in place of a shirt or with a shinny camisole appears sexy, dressy and serious. Silk, sequined or shinny pants worn under the jacket will add an extra dressy quality that will set the look apart from a dress suit. High heels or stilettos paired with this outfit are key to making the look dressy. Minimal accessories are suggested such as a bracelet, nice earrings, stylish necklace and a dressy clutch.

Choose Slacks in Soft Fabric

Slacks or pants made of cotton or denim do not dress up well. Typically, soft flowing slacks such as silk, linens and microfibers work well with dressy tops and jackets. When buying dress pants, the key to finding a good cut or fabric is to ensure the paints hang down the body and there are no creases or bulges.

Dress Up Your Suit

If you are going from work to a dressy event, changing up your work suit will provide a dressy look without a lot of time or effort. Change your jewelry from work to dressy by wearing diamond or rhinestone earrings and necklace. A jeweled broach can also be added for a sparkled touch. Change your shirt from a bottom-down to lace camisole silk shirt. This adds softness to the suit. Switch your sensible work shoe with a stylish-colored high heel. Think about straps or open-toed heels to modernize the look. The pants can be changed with dressy slacks if desired. Use a small clutch instead of a large bag. Clutches make the look more feminine and dainty.

Accessories Make a Look

Selecting accessories to dress up a look is vital to keeping the look clean and beautiful. Belts are good with dressy tops and pants because they can tie the look together. Most women look awkward in a tiny, string belt or a large, bulky belt. A belt about 1 1/2 to 2 inches wide is the best choice for most female figures. Add splashes of color with your accessories, especially if your look is black or white. Colored shoes, earring and necklace combinations will add brightness to your outfit without overpowering it.

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