So this is going to sound against the grain, but I hate when things "go" together. Matchy-matchy looks have my eye falling into a twitching frenzy; dresses paired with cardigans and ballet flats make me want to put my head slowly down on the table; and I don't get too excited over a top that goes hand in hand with a pair of pants. Don't get me wrong, I think it looks fine. Nice. Appealing.
But, to me, it doesn't look amazing. I like amazing. And I think the way to achieve amazing is if you take elements that shouldn't go together and force them to make nice. Like pairing rugged boots with feminine dresses, delicate, intricate tops with menswear-inspired slacks, or chambray shirts with evening gowns.
It takes a bit of practice, but once you hit your stride with balancing juxtapositions, beautiful outfits emerge. And one of my favorite contrasts to play with is the casual + elegant combo.
Take this particular outfit for example. This full emerald skirt has silk gloves and champagne written all over it. I could easily wear this to a date where five courses and soft candlelight are involved, or to a dinner party where I borrow my mom's diamond earrings to fit in. Because of that, do you know what would be wonderful to take that vibe down a notch or two? A plaid shirt.
Plaid has autumn evenings with hot ciders and commutes with infinity scarves basically written into the thread of it. A straight opposite from full, silk skirts. But when paired together, they both war and accept each other. They fit flawlessly but still create interest.
Then to take it a step further, pair the look with sleek black boots for a sharp, but relaxed vibe; and a vintage fur collar (this one is from New Old Fashion Vintage) to add a touch more fancy and balance out the casual pieces.
And what do we have in the end? A look that you could easily take to the coffee shop to read a book, or to an after hour's cocktail party at the museum with the rest of the fancy folk. Win, win.
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PS: Want more tips on how to play with opposites? Then check out 10 Tips on How to Wear Your Evening Wear in a Casual Way, Dressing Down Evening Skirts for the Day, and How to Wear Column Dresses During the Day Time. Want to see other looks where I styled this fur collar? Check out Tips on How to Style a Blanket Scarf: There's More Than 1 Way!
SKIRT: c/o Choies (only $16!)
FUR COLLAR: c/o New Old Fashion Vintage
BOOTIES: Marshalls
SHIRT: thrifted (similar: here and here)