The weekend is finally here, and you're standing in front of your closet deciding what to wear for a long-anticipated night out. You want to look effortlessly put together. The problem is you only have work clothes and a few simple pieces in your closet. Don't panic – simple can become stunning in just a few easy steps.
Before you even begin pulling pieces from your wardrobe, remember an essential part of looking amazing is confidence. Confidence is knowing who you are and what you feel great wearing.
Fit and fabric are also important things to consider. You won't have a good time if you're fussing with your waistband all night because it's too loose. And if your fabric choice is scratchy or clingy, there's no amount of smiling that will hide your discomfort.
It doesn't matter if you’re into jeans or dresses, choose what you love. Check to ensure the basic pieces are well-maintained and without flaws or stains. Once you have that, you can build from there.
Here are some tips to elevate your wardrobe basics for the evening:
• Jeans – Accessories are the key to bringing this everyday basic into the evening category. Choose strappy sandals or flats with sparkly jewels and pair them with skinny jeans. Coordinate that with glimmering earrings or a statement necklace and a stylish tee. If your night-out venue is a bit more casual, try embellished wedge sandals, a lightweight scarf, and large gold earrings.
• Dresses – Heels instantly give dresses an evening feel, even if it's a casual fabric like cotton. For flowy dresses keep the shoes as minimalistic as possible. A pair of heels with thin straps adds femininity. Simple, gemstone earrings or jeweled barrettes with an upswept hairstyle are classic add-ons that always look lovely.
Some Dos and Don'ts
- Do choose colors that are vibrant if you want to. It's not written in stone that black is the only acceptable evening color.
- Do choose a hairstyle that you can set and forget. There's nothing worse than fixing your hair in the bathroom every 15 minutes. You'll miss all the fun!
- Do mix textures to create interest. If your dress is silky, add a raw, natural stone bracelet, for example.
- Do begin with simple pieces and layer accessories. Don't forget to try various shoes, jewelry, and handbags until you find the combination that expresses your individual style.
- Don't overcomplicate your outfit. Simpler is always more elegant. As Coco Chanel advised, get dressed, then take something away. Editing is your friend.
- Don't forget to be honest with yourself about who you are and what makes you feel comfortable. Just because your best friend feels great in wide-leg pants or a jumpsuit doesn't mean it's your best look. Try on a few outfits and stand in front of the mirror.
When you've found the outfit that truly embodies your style, you'll know.
Dressing to reflect your personality for an evening out is choosing some of your favorite wardrobe staples and adding your unique touches. You'll feel confident and comfortable, which is the best look of all.