A Few Shades of Grey

eva franco_nine west_3Bright and bold colors aren't the only way to create a statement-making outfit. Shades of grey and black can be just as impactful when mixed and matched in prints. The different widths and monochromatic shades of the horizontal and vertical stripes juxtaposed with the geometric print of this dress automatically elevates the look. The dress is an outfit in itself, with minimal effort on my part. Quite the time saver on any given work morning. With this neutral backdrop, it's easy to add a pop of color with simple accessories. Here, I chose to give a punch of color with my suede cobalt pumps. I could have easily worn colored tights or swapped out my black belt for something more colorful. So many possibilities. My go to faux leather jacket was the perfect topper as the temps dropped later in the day. This was the perfect day to evening outfit, as it took me from work to dinner to celebrate my fiance's milestone bday.

Thinking ahead, once Fall has come and gone, I can easily winterize this dress with knit tights and a cropped cardigan or fitted blazer. A pair of riding boots or booties will round out the winter look. How do you do to winterize?

Outfit Details:

Wool Geometric Print Dress: Eva Franco from Rue La La, $79.90. This was purchased last year. Keep an eye on Rue for Eva Franco dresses; the boutique shows up every now and then. In the meantime, here are some dresses in shades of grey: (1) lastcall: Alexia Admor Mixed Print Fit & Flare in smoke, $119; (2) lastcall: Taylor Animal-Print Fit & Flare, $71.40; and (3) I LOVE this one! lastcall: Suzi Chin for Maggy Boutique Striped Cityscape, $62.50

Faux Leather Jacket: 5 l 48 from Saks off the 5th, $35. Piperlime  has a great selection of faux leather jackets for under $100.

Black Tights: Old Navy, $10. Use your ON, Gap or BR card with code STUFFSAVE and save 30% off your purchase thru 10/10. No card? Then use code ONSAVE20 and save 20%. Valid in-store and online.

Cobalt Pumps w/ Buckle: Nine West, $(can't remember but they were definitely on sale!). These are a very old pair of pumps that I have held onto. Here are some alternatives: (1) Macy's: Lauren Ralph Lauren (adena pumps in blue suede), $99 and (2) Macy's: Betsey Johnson (aavery pumps in blue suede), $69.99.

Bracelets: (1) Turnlock Bracelet: Banana Republic, $20.  For a similar bracelet, check this Jewel Be Mine gold hook me up bracelet, $17; (2) Alex and Ani: Crest Shimmering  Sea Bead Bangle in Shiny Silver, $28. The hamsa charm was a gift that I added to the bangle; (3) David Yurman: Cable Collectibles Heart Bracelet w/ Diamonds, $Gift; (4) Tiffany Bead Bracelet: Closet Connection, $75. I was so bummed when I lost my Tiffany's bead bracelet on a trip to Chicago. When I went to buy a new one, I was horrified that they were being sold for $200. I had bought mine for $85 ages ago. I was psyched when I found this at the consignment shop; total score. For something similar without breaking the bank, I recommend checking this replica on Etsy $70.

[nggallery id=61]