Modern women are busier than ever, and although your life is in constant chaos, you can rely on your wardrobe to show the world that you can do it all–and still look incredible! Take the guesswork out of pairing tops and bottoms, and opt for a dress. Resist the urge to stuff your oversized shoulder bag, and clean up with a clutch or small purse instead. Simple yet elegant, you will exude confidence and class for any occasion.
The Romantic
The black and white trend is coming on strong, and a patterned chiffon dress will make you look and feel ultra-feminine. Your inner goddess will be looking for an opportunity to rock such a frock with a sweetheart neckline and maxi length. Perfect for date night, vacation or a social occasion–use accessories to dress it up or down, and make this a “go-to” item in your closet. To achieve the full monochromatic look, this essential clutch is a great match. All shades of grey are hot in handbags this year, and the chain detail on the removable strap will give the otherwise soft look some edge. Sami & Jo maxi dress, $30, Nine West cross body clutch, $15, VF Outlet Store, 2nd Floor, Blue Building, 801 Hill Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.378.0408, vfoutlet.com
The Workaholic
Professionalism is the key when it comes to work, but when it’s time to ditch the 9-to-5, slip into this unique conversation starter. Cobalt is a great transitional color, and the textured fabric will flatter any body type. Solid and simple, it will give your accessories the chance to shine. This telephone clutch speaks for itself and will definitely stand out in a crowd. The intricate bead pattern makes it a one-of-a-kind collectable, and the colors work with anything, anytime you want to be the “talk” of the town. Joseph Ribkoff reversible dress, $195, Mary Frances “Call Me” clutch, $244, Charlotte Shoppe, 4600 West Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.678.4800, charlotteshoppe.com
The Daydreamer
Clutches are not just for special occasions anymore. Put your carry-all bag on standby, and when you step out to yournext luncheon, party, meeting or shopping trip, bring only the necessities. Keep it casual by choosing a more functional material like straw–the color block elements on this bag make it fun and versatile, so it can be paired with any outfit in an instant. The accent of bright colors looks great with prints, too, and the status print on this dress is a classic. The bold colors give it a boho chic look, cool but classy, and perfect for the end of summer. Apartment 9 straw clutch, $45, Jennifer Lopez Collection drop-waist dress, $70, Kohl’s, 2700 Paper Mill Rd., Spring Township, 610.371.0237, kohls.com
The Socialite
Sophistication that stands the test of time, this perforated metal clutch will literally last a lifetime. Its unique design is both durable and ladylike, and it will hold all of the essentials for your next soiree. Timeless in its own right, lace is a trend that continues to climb to the social stratosphere. Be it printed, colored, or neutral, in accents or allover, you really can’t go wrong with lace. This peplum dress is the perfect way to modernize the classic material, and nude lining adds a transparent feel. With undisputed elegance, this look will raise the bar in your fashion circle and put you in the spotlight. Wendy Stevens “La Pochette” clutch, $520, BCBG MAXAZRIA peplum dress, $290, Bell Tower Salon & Spa, 18 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.6379, belltowersalonspa.com
BY AMANDA ACUNA | PHOTOS BY TANIA COLAMARINO, AMA PHOTOGRAPHY
