Risky Business

If you ask any woman whether she owns a little black dress, I guarantee you that she will answer “yes!” This is the one clothing item that will take you from casual to dressy, in a matter of minutes. If you are really clever, you will purchase one that is travel friendly. You can never go wrong with this dress; as long as the cut and fit are flattering to your body, you certainly don’t need to spend a fortune on it.

I have several of these versatile little numbers and find that I wear them often, no matter the weather or event. This one, by Prabal Gurung, is the perfect travel or event companion, as I have demonstrated here.  Here is how I changed it up. In both looks I decided to “go for it,” by adding one fabulous accessory in which to alter the look. This is a fun, creative and rewarding fashion exercise!

In look #1, I keep it funky in a more casual way. Adding a (go for it) laser cut leather jacket, a modern belt along with a simple shoe boot, gives it a little bit of an edge, but keeps it casual. If this is not really your look, you could just as well add a cardigan and a flat or boot, depending on your height and what look is more flattering to you.

Giorgio Brato Laser Cut Leather Jacket (available at Savannah, Santa Monica), Prabal Gurung Dress, Barbara Bui Belt, Stuart Weitzman Shoes, John Hardy Dragon Wrap Bracelet, Zadig and Voltaire Clutch.

In look #2, I feature the dress with this fabulous “go for it” feather collar, sparkly heels, a skinny rhinestone belt and my new BFFs,  the Christian Dior Tribal Earrings, a gift form my stylish cousin, Susan. Since I am short waisted, which means the distance from my shoulders to my waist is on the short side, (read more here), I like to define my waist with a skinny belt.  Extremely wide belts don’t usually work well on me. My chest butts up against the top of the belt, which is not flattering. 

Prabal Gurung Dress, Louiza Babouryan Feather Collar( available at Savannah, Santa monica, Gloria Ochs Clutch, Dries Van Noten Belt, Christian Dior Heels, available in store at Bloomingdale's, Christian Dior Tribal Earrings, similar for less here.

Everyone is different, has different tastes and styles. I like to try everything, but I always know immediately when I am not in my comfort zone. The influence of many stylish and tasteful women who have helped me choose outfits over the years, has truly taught me everything I know about fashion and style. I have also learned to listen to my inner voice constantly. I am a risk taker, so I still commit the odd fashion faux pas. In light of all that, my motto remains firm; no risk, no return!