DETAILS: BLACK VELVET DRESS  (LOVE THIS ONE) | LEATHER JACKET (SIMILAR HERE) | BLACK ANKLE BOOTS

DETAILS: BLACK VELVET DRESS (LOVE THIS NAVY OPTION) | OVER-THE-KNEE BOOTS

As much as I love to get dressed up, my favorite looks are always those that balance the feminine and the edgy. When I found this dress I was instantly obsessed – I love the velvet and lace combo! It’s a little sweeter than I normally go but dresses are one of the easiest pieces to give your own spin and adapt to fit your style. You can transition them for any occasion with a few edgy or casual additions –  some of my favorites are below:

1.) Leather jacket: Is there any look that a leather jacket can’t instantly transform? It’s my first addition to toughen up any look. I love the edgy moto vibe against the sweet lace and velvet detail in this Elie Tahari dress (love this one). It makes even the most feminine dress a perfect option to wear during the day or to work meetings.

2.) Ankle boots: My pump collection is proof – I never say no to a good pump. But sometimes the obvious shoe isn’t always the best shoe. Go for something just as sophisticated but a little more unexpected with a sleek bootie. I also love an embellished ankle boot for more of a statement. It will instantly take a classic lace dress to a new level that works in the office with a blazer or by itself out for dinner after.

3.) Soft sweaters: One of the coziest ways to transform a dress is with a pretty pullover sweater. I especially love this look with fitted dresses (obsessed with this suede dress!) or to highlight pretty details on the hem. How pretty are these tassels?

4.) Over-the-knee boots: Hands-down the best way to rock your mini dresses well beyond fall – ditch your tights for an over-the-knee boot! The combo is such a clean look, shows just enough skin to be sexy but still warm, and may be the easiest possible pairing to pull off.

I love the detailing on Elie Tahari’s dresses. The contrast between the fabrics they use really adds interest and dimension to their pieces which makes them great for transition pieces. Below are a few more of my favorites from the Elie Tahari collection at Saks Fifth Avenue.

XX, Christine

*In collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue and ShopStyle.