It’s no secret that the difference between a cute look and a REALLY cute look is how you wear it. Styling an outfit is what makes the look “you” and defines the statement you want to make. Shopping for clothes is the easy part; putting a great look together is why there is a market for stylists. 😉
This Elizabeth & James black and white cocktail dress is such a statement piece, and it really needs only minimal accessories. The asymmetrical hemline, sporty racerback cut, and graphic colorblock design combine to make this dress a showstopper by itself, but it’s still possible to put your own spin on such a statement piece. With the flirty slit taking center stage, I decided to keep the look leggy by pairing the dress with everyone’s favorite minimalist strappy Stuart Weitzman “Nudist” sandal. I didn’t want to overwhelm any of the design elements of the dress, so I limited my jewelry to these favorite turquoise danglers from Impressions of Santa Fe. The black and white windowpane crossbody and my go to leather moto jacket completed the look. I like adding an unexpected element to cocktail attire, and in this case, the moto jacket gave the outfit a little edge without distracting from the dress itself. The high pony was inspired by Kate Beckinsale, who has perfected this look on multiple red carpets. Though my hair is nowhere near as fabulous as hers, I love the playful vibe it gives this chic and sporty dress!
On another note, this fab Loeffler Randall crossbody is just one of many amazing bags up for auction at the Heroes & Handbags luncheon, which will be at River Oaks Country Club on April 21. This event, benefitting Heroes for Children, is such a fun girls day out for a great cause. Please consider joining us this year and get a chance to take home a great handbag!
Dress: Elizabeth & James (a few other favorite black and white colorblock frocks from Maeve, Asos, Self Portrait, Alice + Olivia, and a fab evening gown by Badgley Mischka) | Heels: Stuart Weitzman (budget friendly option by Steve Madden) | Crossbody bag: Loeffler Randall in similar print | Leather jacket: All Saints (similar faux leather option by Topshop) | Earrings: Impressions of Santa Fe