When it comes to working with a minimized wardrobe, starting with a monochromatic base and then changing it up with standout accessories is key. I've mentioned this dressing tactic countless times on this blog before, but I want to discuss it again because I think it truly is the key to success and makes a huge difference when choosing an outfit that doesn't feel redundant. The first point to consider when paring down your wardrobe is to ensure that you begin with a foundation of staples that can mixed and matched across all four seasons. In order to act as the perfect base for outerwear and accessories, this collection of core pieces should be in neutral colors and high quality materials that can stand triumphantly alone, or gracefully under layers of necklaces, bracelets and more.
For this look, I started with a simple navy silk dress with an a-line cut and 3/4 length sleeves. While this dress can easily be worn alone with layers of necklaces and some great flats or heels, it also lays beautifully under sweaters, blazers, jackets and even vests without a ton of extra bulk. To suit the early spring temperatures here in the city, I did the latter and paired this dress with my go-to denim jacket, brown belt and brown ballet flats. I could have easily stopped there and been left with a simple yet classic look but I opted instead for rolling the sleeves slightly, throwing on a long tortoise shell necklace to pull out the brown in the accessories and carrying a statement clutch to set the whole look apart. By adding these last three elements I was able to take a basic look from basic pieces and make it a little more memorable. Whats even better is that I could have easily worn this same dress later in the week and made it look completely different just by swapping out the flats for ankle booties, the jacket for a pullover or cardigan, the belt and necklace for some great statement earrings, and the clutch for a cross body bag.
All in all, this look is one that I will undoubtedly wear again but I am also looking forward to styling this dress is many more ways during the warmer months. Below I have listed the items I'm wearing and have linked some similar pieces so that you can recreate the look yourself at different price points.
Dress: Club Monaco Murilla dress / Jacket: J. Crew / Belt: Vintage Dooney & Bourke (a similar one is available in the shop) / Necklace: J. Crew / Clutch: Louis Vuitton / Ballet Flats: Chanel
