What to Wear: One Dress Two Ways

Summer dresses can be so versatile when paired with the right accessories. And shirt dresses are the most flexible of them all. Here’s Kersten’s question:

I just bought this lovely little dress from J.Crew, but I’m sort of at a loss to accessorize it. I’m planning on wearing it all summer to both semi-casual and more formal events, but I just don’t know how to pair it and polish off the outfit!

I made two examples below. One for a casual weekend day and the other for a wedding or other formal event:

Weekend
Bag – An embroidered straw clutch is fun for a casual brunch or trip to the beach.
Sandals – Decorated flip flops look great with a pedicure.
Sunglasses – A must.
Bikini – A great layering top, even if you aren’t going to the beach.

Event
Clutch – Sleek clutch with bow from Target.
Shoes – I love the vintage style of these “Lady” pumps.
Bracelet – From Anthropologie.
Hair Clip – Wearing your hair up helps add to the formality.

A little make-up and some sunless tanner will go a long way with either outfit. And don’t be afraid to play with color combinations. This denim blue color is practically a neutral.