As I was sifting through my over-flowing wardrobe the other day, I heard an inner whisper that was scolding me for already having taken over the entire closet space in the master bedroom and for having kicked out my husband’s belongings and exiled them in our future baby’s room. Now that urban cupboard space is becoming more than ever a rare luxury I am feeling more than ever the necessity to re-invent certain pieces and recycle every single item.
This Fall, a Black Lace Dress seems to be on every fashionista’s wishlist and there are endless variations to wear this key investment piece. I have recycled Reiss’ last winter lace dress and transformed it into 3 unique characters , using pieces from my over-flowing accessories wardrobe: the Red-Carper couture fashionista, a younger take on lace inspired by Gossip Girl’s Blair Waldorf and a more casual rougher interpretation of the lace dress as a Biker Gothic girl.
Inspired by Valentino and Christian Lacroix’s aesthetics, I put together this red-carpet look using simple and timeless accessories: a great pair of crystal earrings by Erickson Beamon , a timeless and must-have pair of Christian Louboutin pumps which I’ve worn for the past 4 years and a snakeskin box clutch by Bottega Veneta. The key Piece de Resistance to make this look couture -esque is the addition of a luxurious Fuschia Grosgrain ribbon to pull the waist in. This look is ideal for winter weddings or gala events.
The second look which is inspired by the upper east side characters of the hit TV series Gossip Girl as well as Miu Miu’s overall brand image, was built using a sparkly necklace bought 3 years ago from Topshop which I have transformed into a headband, a skinny candy-coloured belt from New Look, a box shaped pink bag from Topshop and a great pair of mirror-effect Golden high heels by Miu Miu bought on sale at the end of this summer. I added some more playfulness with 2 rings: YSL’s art ring and an edgy mirror-like ring by CC Syke. This look can be worn to any cocktail party or art gallery opening.
The 3rd look takes the lace dress from formal events to a casual night out for dinner or at a trendy bar by roughing up the dress with a shrunken biker jacket and zip-detailed or studded shoe-boots. I also added a touch of Goth with a bracelet from Topshop that is linked to a ring. I am still searching online for alternatives but can’t find any unfortunately, it would be best to visit your nearest Topshop store for more Romantic –Goth pieces.
Biker jacket bought in 2010 from Karen Millen and Shoe Boots by Paul & Joe Sister bought 4 years ago on Shopbop.com.
Style Under fire has picked the best of the Black Lace dresses around:
Shop timeless accessories to replicate the red-carpet look:
Shop Blair Waldorf’s quirky style with these shiny and playful accessories:
Shop the best value Biker Jackets and studded ankle boots:
McQ Leather Vest (GREAT FASHION BUY), Sara Berman Zip Leather Jacket (GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY), Lot 78 Leather Jacket (GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY),
All Photos and styling by Style Under Fire
