Second City Style
Style Rx
Fashion Focus
Retail Therapy
Haute Historian
Shopping with Andra
It's in the Details
Ask The Bean
Get It Now
Style Sleuth
Finds On A Dime
Pret Reporteur
Runway To Real Way
Male Box
Bling
Vintage Vantage
Beauty Treatment
Second City Style Blog
Cyber Mall
Advertisement





Events Calendar Shop Chicago Sales
Retail Therapy

FINDS ON A DIME

divider

Finding Fashions In Your Wardrobe Versus The Retail Store

Rachel Yeomans

This economy has caused many of us to tuck our credit cards away and become more creative in how we wear our existing wardrobes versus buying new items. I have been among these individuals in trying to abstain from any future fashion purchases, which has caused me to be quite creative indeed in what I have combined in my wardrobe. I have to say, I think I have to give a nod to the economic restraints, as I had many very fashionable outfits that I had no idea existed!

Two of my favorites stand out and may benefit others with budget restraints.The first is the long-sleeved top with the little black dress. Yes we've all put the long-sleeved top or turtleneck under the tunic or wool shift, however I never thought of utilizing this same layering technique with my go-to LBD! I own a v-neck sleeveless solid black dress with semi-pleated skirt that ends at the knee. Under it, I paired a long-sleeved gray billow-sleeved cotton top with a full gathered sweetheart neckline. To pull the look together I donned a black belt with a decorated gunmetal buckle around my waist. I first wore this look at a dinner event with sheer black hose and round-toed patent pumps and a silver clutch. I also wore the ensemble to work with black fishnets and gray knee-high boots. Both were fashionable, both made a statement, and both brought a whole new look forward from my very own closet without me having to buy a single item!

The second look that I created isn't as inventive as it's been published all over the magazine advertisements; however, it isn't one that I personally thought of bringing forth to my own fashions. Well, never say never my friends! The look that I speak of is the cardigan underneath the blazer or jacket. I've always been the type of girl who wears a scoop-neck top with a cardigan wrap or scarf. Adding that additional layer has not only added additional warmth in these winter months, but it also has stepped up my regular look and made it a lot more sophisticated and put-together. Plus, it's fun playing with three layers of texture and color versus just two. For example, the other day I wore a dark gray camisole under a deep plum 3/4-length-sleeved cardigan and all under a dark brown velour blazer with large statement earrings and a blue and tan infinity scarf. I've also donned the white camisole under the black embellished cardigan all under the black silk blazer for a more dressed up look.

These are only two examples of new outfits I've discovered that currently exist in my wardrobe. Before I restricted myself from shopping, I easily would have run out to my favorite boutiques and purchased a new accessory to go with my silk blazer or a new black skirt to go with my gray top. I'm very happy to know that the next time I have an urge to buy something, I will stop, go back to my closet, and play with what I what I already have. That could bring a lot more fashion (and value) to my wardrobe.

1. Moschino Cheap and Chic Silk-Blend Lace-Up Belted Dress $730
2. Preen Line Newton Cotton-Blend Dress $555
3. MCQ Cowl-Neck Jersey Top $260
4. Diane Von Furstenberg Matador Pleated Satin Blouse $285
5. DKNY Studded Crepe Jacket $425
6. Marc By Marc Jacobs Sunny Cotton V-Neck Cardigan $160
7. Elizabeth and James Ruched-Sleeve Blazer $395
8. Juicy Couture Beaded Silk-Blend Cardigan $160

Image Layout: Tiffany Carlin

Advertisement










Visit our friends at:

Copyright 2005-2010, Second City Style. All rights reserved.
Site by Conbrio