There comes a point in late summer when, despite the still-scorching-heat, warm-weather shopping comes to a halt and you've just got to work with what you've got. Why are you going to buy one more summery dress when fall is right around the corner?
The only problem is that your summer social calendar doesn't slow down — the bachelorette parties, evening soirees, and happy hours are still unfolding at an alarming rate, so you've got to get creative with your outfits. Fortunately, the dresses you already have in your closet can be easily styled for both casual and fancy situations. The difference is in the styling and accessories. So instead of shelling out on one more impulse buy as soon as a social situation arises, it's time to get creative with your current lineup.
Click on to see how to dress three silhouettes up and down — and make it through the rest of summer without a sweat (at least when it comes to your wardrobe).
Dress Down: A Maxi-Dress
The easiest way to cut the formal feeling of a maxi-dress is to throw it on with some sneakers. Then, play up a daytime vibe with a casual denim jacket, clear specs, and a versatile backpack for a look that's practical and breezy. No overdressed feeling here.
Ganni, $475.00, available at Need Supply CoAxel Arigato, $195.00, available at SpringAuxiliary, $325.00, available at AritziaMango, $69.99, available at Mango
Dress Up: A Maxi-Dress
To dress up a maxi-dress, don't get too traditional — instead, keep things quirky with a heeled mule and a box bag. Statement earrings seal the deal and bring this number from low-key to 100.
Ganni, $475.00, available at Need Supply CoMarni, $440.00, available at ShopbopRachel Comey, $449.00, available at Rachel ComeyHigh Cheeks, $198.00, available at W Concept
Dress Down: A Slip Dress
Make a spaghetti-strap slip dress more daytime-appropriate with one of our favorite '90s styling tricks: wearing it over a simple white tee. Casual sneakers and fall's It jacket — the bomber — keep the rest of the look easy and effortless.
H&M, $34.99, available at H&MWon Hundred, $225.00, available at Won HundredDiadora, $99.00, available at DiadoraA.L.C., $118.00, available at IntermixMadewell, $, available at Madewell
Dress Up: A Slip Dress
Swap your sneakers for a thick statement heel that mismatches in a good way, and continue to add that extra touch with a standout earring and some celeb-worthy shades. Then, a crossbody bag does the trick for a hands-free night.
Won Hundred, $225.00, available at Won HundredFinery London, $155.00, available at Finery LondonCharles & Keith, $59.90, available at Charles & KeithHolly Ryan, $320.00, available at Holly RyanZanzan, $235.00, available at Zanzan
Dress Down: A Shift Dress
A shift dress is such a classic silhouette that it's pretty tough for it to go wrong. But for daytime, a nude sandal and a basket bag take the edge off of the sleek shape and ground the look for a casual outing. Stick with simple, polished add-ons, like metallic sunglasses and some minimalist hoops.
Mango, $29.99, available at MangoBrother Vellies, $195.00, available at Brother VelliesSensi Studio, $189.00, available at ShopbopCOS, $19.00, available at COSLe Specs, $73.00, available at MatchesFashion.com
Dress Up: A Shift Dress
Heels aren't the only way to dress up a shift dress. Wear it as a tunic over velvet pants and ditch the heels for a metallic platform shoe. Complete the outfit with a bit of shine on the ears and a sophisticated circle bag and you've got a going out look that puts comfort above all else.
AGL Attilio Giusti Leombruni, $410.00, available at NordstromFRAME Denim, $375.00, available at M'ODA 'OPERANDIClare V., $485.00, available at Clare VLa Kaiser, $286.00, available at Local EclecticMango, $29.99, available at MangoLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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