Style Translator: Make Contrasting Necklines Work

Rebecca Taylor Textured Jacket ($279) // River Island Cami ($64) // Deborah Lippmann Single Ladies Polish ($19)

I like when necklines complement each other–crewnecks with crewnecks, v-necks with v-necks, etc..  But what if you have two pieces in your closet that will look great together, and the necklines don’t match?  How do you make the combination look its most flattering?

This photo from Pinterest shows how to do exactly that.  Let me break it down.

Neckline. For this look, necklaces that complement the neckline of the jacket cure the disparity between the crewneck jacket and the v-neck top.  They create a kind of focal point that draws the crewneck down toward the point of the v.  This lengthens the whole look.

Here, she uses layered necklaces with delicate charms.  If you’re looking for something similar, this Henri Bendel necklace with an asscher-cut stone is lovely.  I also like this wishbone pendant from Sydney Evan.  For a more modern look, this Alvina Albramova pendant with a black, bezel-set stone is a great pick.

To unifying the contrasting necklines, you could also work from the opposite direction, and try a doubled v-shape pendant necklace instead.

Texture. I’ve mentioned before how I love mixing textures.  So this tweed-like jacket from Rebecca Taylor with a smooth, silky top is right up my alley.  If you’re looking for a less expensive jacket, this champagne Jones New York jacket has a silky trim, which is nice.  I also like this simpler jacket from Liz Claiborne for under-$50.

Plus-size? This Eloquii jacket comes in white or navy.  Petite? Try this Limited jacket in grey or this one in blue.

Color. Here, the palette is pure Olivia Pope.  Soft neutrals, on soft neutrals.  But what makes the look sing is the pop of contrasting burgundy nail color.

Some other color combos to try…how about white on white with a sparkling charcoal grey.  Or blue on blue with a bold coral nail?  Whatever color palette you choose, punch it up with a darker or brighter shade.