Double-edged blog post

 

 tunic: Target

The purpose of today's post is 2 fold.  First of all, this is the weekly Bean picked item from my "unwearables."  It's actually something I do wear on occasion, but I've always had a hard time styling it with anything but skinny jeans and flats.  Between the sheerness of the fabric, the business of the print, and the tunic-length (not a shirt, but not a dress) it sort of has a lot going on with it already, so I've always taken the simple and easy way out.

The second reason for this post is to help a friend in reassessing her closet.  As I was helping one of my best friends pick out an outfit for New Year's Eve, she revealed to me that most of her clothes are dedicated for either work OR play and she has a hard time breaking a piece out of its defined category.  This tunic is actually something we both own (in different patterns), so I thought I'd use this post to illustrate how one piece can be worn for different occasions.

 

vest: Old Navy, pants: h&m, shoes: target

For work.  (this is actually how I will wear this piece tomorrow).

Pair something loose and flowy with tailored/structured pieces to add seriousness to an outfit.  I chose a vest and wide leg trousers, but a blazer could work too.  A high heel will help keep pants from looking frumpy.  For accessories, keep it simple.  

Leggings: f21, shoes and clutch: target

For a date or party.  Wear a tunic with leggings to give it the look of a short and sexy dress.  Heels will help elongate and slim your legs (and you can wear the same ones from work if you're going out straight after.  Leggings are easy to carry in a purse to change into as well).  Pick fun accessories:  A long string of costumy pearls, a bunch of bangles or some big earrings.  

 tshirt and boots: urban outfitters, pants: old navy, scarf: self made, bag: target

Weekend: comfort is key, but this is also the best time to experiment with colors and styles.  Mix patterns and wear things in ways you normally wouldn't to find new looks for items in your closet that need refreshing.  This outfit just sort of fell together based on what I was already wearing when I was making it, but I love it and will most likely wear it again.

I hope everyone is having a great 2011 so far.  What are some of your wardrobe resolutions?