How four simple pieces become one elevated look…

I bought these denim Dior slingbacks for myself in New York… a birthday gift, the kind you justify by telling yourself you’ll wear them forever. And I will…but they’re also what made me see this entire outfit differently.

At first glance, this is the most basic outfit in the world…jeans, a white blouse, pumps and a tote bag. The kind of thing you’d throw on without thinking twice. But if you look more closely, every single piece here is adding an unexpected element.

The blouse is from Tanya Taylor, and from the front it looks like a crisp white button-down… until it splits into a deep V at the hem, which elongates the leg and adds interest to the outfit. The back of the blouse features a big bow tied at the back, with an cropped elastic hem. It’s definitely a detail that makes people look twice.

The jeans are Frame trouser jeans, and the trouser cut is what makes them feel pulled together instead of casual. They have a tiny split hem…and it’s the reason they sit so beautifully over a heel.

I can’t link the Dior slingbacks, so I’ve pulled together some other options, including a crystal-encrusted pair from Tory Burch that are so fabulous I’d wear them with this look in a heartbeat. I honestly can’t get them off my mind…they would be fabulous going into the holidays! Tory Burch is doing some interesting things right now!

The bag is a Louis Vuitton tote, which I also can’t link, so I’ve found some similar styles that work just as well.

And then the jewelry, which is where it all comes together. I’m wearing loads of VAHAN bracelets and a beautiful pair of hoop earrings, my Prada sunglasses, and a long strand of pearls from Julie Miles(this necklace is half price right now so it’s a great time to purchase!). The pearls are knotted at the bottom, and the knot hangs right at the V of the blouse, just below my waist… the perfect spot. This strand of pearls is amazing because it can be worn as shown, doubled or tripled!

So even though this look is just jeans, a white blouse, pumps, and a tote…every piece is elevated, a little unusual, and together they make one outfit that’s dressy and casual at the same time. IMPO…it’s one amazing look!

If you take one thing from this post, let it be that the most basic formula in your closet… jeans, a blouse, a tote… can become something special when you choose pieces with a little bit of an edge. Even tying a more basic white blouse at the waist and adding several strands of pearls instead of just one would make the look pop! Also don’t hesitate to add an unexpected shoe…it’s all in the details!

I’m headed to Richmond, Virginia, later this afternoon to visit my daughter Rebecca and little Stella. We’re having dinner at Uliveto tonight, which is one of my favorite restaurants! I hope you’re all having the best weekend!

Thanks so much for reading today!

~XOXO Suzanne