In today’s age of fast-fashion trends and ever-tightening purse strings (or not-so-hot Visa bill), it can sometimes seem like buying that on-sale shift dress—instead of the pricier, though better made, sheath—is almost too simple a decision. But what if that dress could get you through a 9-5 work day, happy hour, and a casual weekend of errand-running? Take a lesson from those uber stylish French women and invest in a well-made sheath (like this Trina Turk one) for countless (or, at least three) outfit possibilities.
Office: At first appearance, this dress may seem too fancy for any old office day. But with the right shoes and accessories, your outfit can transform from day to evening like that. Try a patent, heeled oxford or—essential to any women’s wardrobe—pair of flats, like Steve Madden’s scallop-trimmed Citygal. A collarless coat in a complimentary neutral tone (or this striped number from H&M) works the same as any blazer would, but adds extra oomph. Tights can make the outfit more office-appropriate if the shoulder cutouts make you nervous, just don’t wear anything too sheer. Finally, a classically elegant watch shows personality, without getting to costume-y.
Evening: For those after-office drink outings, stash a pair of your favorite stilettos in your workbag—along with a statement clutch, necklace, or bracelet—and some knock’em dead bold lipstick (you can never go wrong with MAC’s Russian Red) for a total outfit recall. Yep, that’s all you need.
Weekends: A boxy denim jacket and some Chelsea boots (try these eye-catching ASOS ones, they go with everything) will make this dress your new Saturday-morning go-to. Even that tattered pair of black Converse that you cannot bear to part ways with—make this dress a no-brainer for a busy (or homebound) weekend. Just tie your hair up in a high pony (or top-knot if that’s more your style) and you are good to go—supermarket, mall, or otherwise.
Investments are not just for the stock market, but for your wardrobe too. Finding that dress, or motorcycle jacket, or pair of jeans that you feel unstoppable in (and that make others stop and stare) will be worth the extra cash. Just think of the possibilities—they can soon be hanging in your closet.
