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Three Ways: Strapless Grey Dress

Sep 13, 2011

Somewhere in the back of your closet, there is probably a lonely strapless dress taken out of the rotation after a few weddings and cocktail parties.  How do you wear it once the party is over?

Well, if the dress isn’t made from evening fabric (satin, silk, sequins, etc.) and the bodice offers a bit of structure, you can wear it to work.  That’s right, I said work.  But it takes the right dress and a bit of know how.

Polyvore Set Here.

The trick to wearing a strapless dress to the office is to wear the dress over a work-appropriate blouse.  Here, we have a sheer tie neck top.  Wear it with a strapless bra and use the dress to provide coverage.  Just make sure to tuck the shirt into the dress carefully.  You don’t want to ruin the blouse when you go to zip up.

Over the newly sleeveless combo dress, add a colored, collarless jacket.  You could also wear a standard blazer or tweed jacket over it if you wanted.  I chose teal because dark teal is a big trend this Fall, but more on that Thursday.

Add a pair of work-appropriate pumps, a coordinating pair of earrings in chalcedony and you’re ready for the office.

Polyvore Set Here.

A strapless dress is also a great way to wear bright colors, since you don’t see the whole blouse it keeps the shocking pink from being overpowering.  This outfit also allows you to skip the blazer because the blouse offers a bit of sleeve.  Because you’re not wearing a jacket, make sure that you select a blouse that fits snugly.  You don’t want to be fighting with folds of fabric all day.

 Add in a black trench, patent leather chain bag and a chic, yet functional high heel with a hint of patent.  You could also add belt if you were so inclined.

I also really like this cuff because it’s big enough to be worn on it’s own and neutral enough to be worn with some regularity.

Polyvore Set Here.

I love the interplay between the corseted dress and the chunky, striped knit cardigan.  I’d wear the belt around the waist, but not around the cardigan.  It’s purely there for a decorative element.

The blue saddle bag picks up the hints of teal and turquoise in the sweater.  The cowboy boots also compliment the shades of brown in the stripe and bring a bit of whimsy to the party.

If you wanted to add some jewelry a hoop earring and/or a set of bangle bracelets would look lovely.