Shopping more ethically isn’t always about buying high-end, zero waste items –sometimes it’s about not shopping more at all. The items you already have can be versatile with just a little extra styling. And this isn’t exclusive to your classics like blue jeans and button ups, anything can be transformed into a new vibe.
Take for instance a classic little black dress. You might only think of this dress for styling up to go out, but even what appears to be a party dress can do so much more. And just because it’s short doesn’t mean it only works in the summer, layering it up can create a perfect fall fit, too.
Whether your look is always monochrome or bright and casual, a solid color dress can be the basis for any outfit. Patterns are also welcome here- whatever you have that you love you can apply these styling options to and find a new outfit in an old item.
Some items are worth investing in if you’re looking to start a kind of capsule wardrobe. A dress like Whimsy & Row’s “Autumn”dress is a one-time purchase that you’ll be able to wear for more than just your nights out and in the summer. Here’s how we would style it for three different looks:
Look 1 – When you like any color – as long as it’s black!
There used to be a saying that New Yorkers wore any color –as long as it was black! This is no longer as true, but if you’re the type of person who does only ever wears black (like me), styling isn’t too hard. Black always matches black. But, monochrome doesn’t have to look basic.
Pair your dress up with a pair of black booties- we love these ones from ABLE- and a chic purse by big enough to fit enough in it to take on a long day in style. If you’re feeling daring, push your classic one color look with a simple accessory like these Machete “French coast blue” hoops!
Shoes: ABLE Celina Ankle Boot
Bag: Pixie Mood Diamond Shoulder Bag
Earrings: Machete Kate Hoops in French Coast Blue
Look 2- Casual and comfortable
The LBD does not have to be dressed up, it can also be dressed down for a daytime look- or anytime if it’s your style. Here, the same dress is now a summery, picnic ready outfit.
Accessorizing with color is a great way to make any neutral base piece into a completely new look. Match up this For Days X Juniper Hue bucket hat with a fun, sustainable tote bag by Grant Blvd and ready-to-walk-anywhere Toms in your favorite color.
Bucket hat: For Days x Juniper Hue Tie Dye Bucket Hat
Bag: Grant BLVD “Do the Sustainable thing” tote
Shoes: Toms Alpargata Heritage Canvas
Look 3- Sleek and Chic
Black and white will always go together, so in re-styling items you already own, rely on classic combos. This square neckline will pop under an open jacket like this Ali Golden one.
For going out pair this dress with a white pump like these Susi ones to really step it up. While only you’ll know the inner color of the shoe is matching your lime earrings, everyone will be able to see the coordination with Gunas Emily bag in white and black to finish it all off.
Jacket: Ali Golden cropped jacket in Bone
Shoes: Susi Nina Heel
Bag: Gunas Emily bag
Earrings: Machete Large Square Hoops in lime
By changing up shoes, accessories and layers, one dress can look like three. And if you can do this with just a dress, imagine what you can do with the rest of your closet! Challenge yourself to re-style your favorite pieces in a new way so seasonal items are now evergreen.
–Tori D’Amico
