AW17 — Dressing Chic for Semi-Casual Events

How to Dress Chic for Semi-Causal Events | Fratelli Rossetti, Zara, Nordstrom, Gucci

Happy Wednesday loves! And for those of you in the US, Happy Thanksgiving Eve! I originally was planning this post to be Thanksgiving outfit inspo, hopefully helping those of you who also struggle with what to wear to be comfy yet chic for get-togethers like Thanksgiving Lunch/Dinner. But I realized that this is exactly the type of outfit I would wear to any kind of semi-casual event during the colder months, so why limit it to just Thanksgiving?

Sometimes it's tough figuring out what to wear to 'in-between' events. Too casual and you're underdressed, to dressy and you're often drawing unwanted intention (and not very comfy). But for some reason I love mixing pieces that aren't normally paired together, especially dressy and casual ones. So I really love creating 'in-between', semi-causal yet sophisticated looks! I love how interesting they can look, as well as how they really let you show your sense of style. Another reason I love I them? They're often pretty comfy! They're my go-to for blogging events, dates with Ross or girl friends, and often even meetings or teaching! So here is my basic recipe for looking chic and polished, without dressing to the 9s!

Denim - I find that wearing denim is a great way to keep things comfortable and informal. Incorporating denim keeps you from looking to dressy! For me, jeans are how I do that. Embellished denim is a great way to elevate your look. Even the thin gold chain detail on this pair of jeans takes them from boring to chic!

Heels - Heels, especially statement heels, always take an outfit next-level. You can never go wrong with pointed-toe pumps. As with most structured pieces, they add a polished element to anything they're worn with, plus they're slimming! But your heels don't necessarily have to be pumps, even heeled boots like these work in the winter. If you're opting for a boot, choose one that is statement, like my Fratelli Rossetti gems (seriously, aren't they a work of art?!) or one that is super polished and structured (i.e. opt for hard angles like a pointed or square toe) with metal hardware (like this pair).

Statement Blouse - I find that a good blouse paired with denim always looks chic and polished, especially when tucked into a nice belt. A statement blouse is a great way to elevate a simple outfit. Opt for blouses that are flowy, have an interesting color or pattern, and/or have details like beading or ruffles. Blouses made of luxe fabrics or metallics add elements of sophistication and class, and are also great options!

Structured Outer Layer - Last but not least, I like to add a structured piece over the blouse. Whether it is a coat, like this one, or a duster or blazer, something with clean lines and/or a collar adds sophistication to the look. In the winter, you can even wear both! It's nice to have that extra layer outside, but still have something structured you can keep on when indoors.

How do you dress for 'in-between' events? What are your go-to looks or pieces? Let me know in the comments below!

Bisous,

Laurelle

Boots :: Fratelli Rossetti (they also come in pumps!)