I was invited back to Breakfast Television this past week to share some tips on how to wear a basic item – the classic white dress shirt – in three different ways. Of course, my style mind started racing with all the amazing possibilities for creating stylish yet functional outfits with this must-have classic item. In putting the different looks together, I was fortunate enough to work with The Bay, in Edmonton’s City Centre Mall.
Here are the three looks I came up with:
Model #1: Michelle
Rather than give Michelle a basic (ok… boring) professional look, I chose to go with something that looks fresh and interesting for Spring.
Breakin’ it down:
- The classic white dress shirt has been paired with a tweed skirt that has an interesting lace-inspired pattern to it. The vertical seaming along the front is a great way to add length to the body.
- A bright orange trench coat was added to give this outfit a pop of colour. Since the dress shirt and skirt are fairly neutral, you could most definitely add other colours besides orange to complete the look.
- I kept the pumps a nude colour so that the overall look wouldn’t be too busy since this is, after all, a professional look.
- Michelle is only wearing 2 accessories, an emerald green cocktail ring and sand coloured earring.
- Michelle’s hair and make has been kept simple yet day-time chic.
Model #2: Jennifer
This is how you do day-time casual. There’s not a single sweatpant or hoodie in sight with this outfit but this will be pretty much as comfortable as shleppy sweats. This is a great outfit if you’re going for lunch with your lady-friends, to an afternoon art show, or strolling about town for the afternoon. Ladies, take some notes!
Breakin’ it down:
- Layering is a great way to show that you know how to be stylish while keeping warm in the early part of Spring. The classic white dress shirt has been paired with a patterned, cropped cardigan and rose-coloured leather jacket. For those that don’t like leaving shirts un-tucked, don’t be offended… tuck it in!
- I’ve kept the pant in a similar colour family as the cardigan but used a much brighter tone. You must recognize, though, that not everyone can wear (or wants to wear) a skinny pant or jegging, as Jennifer is wearing. That doesn’t mean you can’t participate in this trend – if you really want to. Take a peek at my pants (off to the side of the models). There are wider legged pants that come in bright colours for this season.
- Jennifer is wearing a low wedge sandal which makes walking around comfy and easy. If you prefer a flat, go for it.
- I was tempted to add bigger earrings (which is my obsession) but opted for simple gold drops so as to not overcomplicate this outfit.
- Hair and makeup is a bit bolder for this outfit but feel free to tone it down if this is too much for you… but I LOVE this top bun.
Model #3: Megan
It’s not always necessary to wear black for evening. This is a great outfit to go out for a casual, yet stylish, dinner with girlfriends.
Breakin’ it down:
- I’ve paired the classic white dress shirt with a metallic knit sweater (it can be a bit chilly out in early Spring) and really exaggerated the cuff in this outfit.
- Again, we’re going back to bright jeggings to complete this look as it is a fun and vibrant trend this season.
- Since the outfit itself is fairly basic, I’ve chosen to add more accessories to sass it up. First, I chose a fun heel that lightens up the look. Then, I added multiple necklaces and a bold cocktail ring that is a great contrast to the dark magenta pants.
- Megan’s makeup has been played up to give her more of an evening look, and her hair has been pulled into a sleek and sexy side braid. Love it!
PS- if you don’t have a classic white dress shirt, go out right now and get one. This is a classic item that you’ll never regret having in yoru closet rotation.
Make sure you look amazing in it and, most importantly, that it fits you properly across the bustline.
Go… now!
Thank you to House of Tin Salon and Makeup by Bean for doing hair and makeup for this segment.
