Every closet has one: a scene-stealing dress, look-at-me coat or statement top that was just *too* good to pass up, even though its wear-everywhere potential is questionable. Your latest splurge? The party-approved midi dress below. You had NO idea how you planned on wearing it, but what you did know was that you just had to have it (color-block paisley and a slinky slip silhouette — we’re so there). But now that it’s made its way into your wardrobe, a sartorial intervention is seriously needed. We’ve got your back, girl, because this week’s Style Resolutions is bringing you three fabulous ways to wear this patchwork number, whether you’re headed to a swinging holiday soiree or a stand-in Sunday brunch date with the girls.
HOW TO STYLE A PATCHWORK DRESS FOR DAYTIME
With so many hours spent on the job, you need every piece in your wardrobe to work overtime to keep your style #onfleek. To keep a satin slip dress feeling daytime ready, play with layers to create a look that toes the line between classy and cutting edge. A zip-front turtleneck sweater lends the dress a modern-meets-sports-chic vibe that falls right in line with your fuss-free style sensibilities. Velvet ankle boots and statement gold earrings add a punch of extra polish, while a bright red lip weaves in a touch of don’t-mess edge — something we could all use when Monday morning rolls around.
Zara Long Studio Paisley Patchwork Slip Dress ($149) + Mango Zipped Cardigan ($60), Zara Velvet Bow High Heel Ankle Boots ($70), Gas Bijoux “Wave” Double Drop Earrings ($173), Yves Saint Laurent Vinyl Cream Lip Stain in Rhythm Red ($36), Zara Mini City Bag With Split Suede Flap ($50)
HOW TO STYLE A PATCHWORK DRESS FOR AFTER-HOURS
After-hours schmoozing is where this patchwork stunner shines, turning heads like a boss thanks to its fusion of boho babe and ’90s grunge styling. A classic pair of ankle-strap heels and chandelier earrings on their own would certainly do this frock justice, but sometimes you just have to go all out — know what we’re sayin’? Go full throttle with a sock-and-sandal pairing (unicorn glitter socks come highly recommended) and sleek modern jewelry with minimalist appeal. The result? A getup that would do any street-style goddess proud. The icing on the cake comes in the form of a pale blue faux-fur coat that’s just as cozy as it is show-stopping.
Zara Long Studio Paisley Patchwork Slip Dress ($149) + Topshop Unicorn Glitter Socks ($6), Topshop Star Motif Coat ($170), Anthropologie Mirabell Clutch ($88), H&M Platform Sandals ($50), & Other Stories L’Amour Ring ($19), & Other Stories Golden Globe Hoop Earrings ($25)
HOW TO STYLE A PATCHWORK DRESS FOR THE WEEKEND
A weekend uniform — be it a t-shirt and jeans, sweater dress or cashmere joggers — has its merits, but we like to mix it up. Saturdays have a certain level of built-in spontaneity that needs to be taken into account when getting dressed, and the ensemble above is ready to take on whatever the day brings. The balance created by adding an oversized sweater and suede boots to the mix means you can stay out from dawn to dusk without needing a costume change.
Zara Long Studio Paisley Patchwork Slip Dress ($149) + H&M Knit Sweater With Lacing ($35), Madewell Lonnie Boot in Suede ($210), Karine Sultan Split Cuff ($78), Zara Mini Tag Crossbody Bag ($30), Mango Faux Fur Padded Coat ($150)
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