Colored Cocktail Dress
Stand out in a sea of little black dresses by opting for a boldly hued frock instead. Color continues to rule the runways, making this dress option a timely, as well as timeless, choice. Keep the look simple by wearing this with a black pump or strappy sandal and minimal jewelry.
To buy: Mango Draped Detail Dress, $70
White Tuxedo Jacket
Ever since YSL introduced Le Smoking and redefined the idea of eveningwear, menswear-inspired tuxedos have been a permanent player in women’s fashion. Mango’s bright white smoking blazer happens to hit all the right notes for a night out. To up the ante of a more casual evening look, let this jacket be the finishing touch to jeans, a black lace top and heels.
To buy: Mango Smoking Blazer, $110
Black Leather Biker Jacket
There’s no doubt that the motorcycle jacket—made cool by the likes of Marlon Brando and James Dean—has come to dominate the fashion landscape nearly a half a century later. Topshop’s version stays true to the original but gives it a more ladylike feel with its quilted luxe leather and minimal hardware. You’ll want to wear this jacket everyday.
To buy: Topshop Quilted Biker Jacket, $360
Coated Denim Pant
Jeans have certainly come a long way from their working dungaree days, and while a dark wash jean is 24/7 essential, the recent surge of coated denim is upping the ante a bit. These sleek and chic numbers are more polished, making them an even better option for day to night dressing—not to mention work to weekend.
To buy: J Brand 901 Legging Style Jean, $220
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Fancy Sneakers
The fashion sneaker—be it a bejeweled low-top or the covetable wedge hi-top—has quickly become a mainstream must. What mom wouldn’t fall head over heels for a shoe that combines the incomparable comfort of a trainer with haute couture styling? This hi-top made from silver metallic, navy glitter and black velvet has a super luxe vibe.
To buy: Topshop Glitter Hi-Top Trainers, $64
Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater
Be it a V-neck, turtleneck or crewneck, a cashmere sweater never loses its chic factor. And the latest incarnation to take its place among the classics is the cashmere boyfriend sweater. The relaxed silhouette is a match made in heaven to a skinny jean or slim trouser.
To buy: J. Crew Collection Boyfriend Sweater, $248
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Sequin Skirt
Show-stopping sequins are staying in the spotlight, and a skirt fashioned from this shiny stuff is just the right amount of razzle-dazzle for day or evening. This silver sequin mini boasts a slight A-line shape that ensures a flattering fit, and the silver feels glam without being garish. Slip it on with a simple black jersey tank, a black high-heeled bootie and minimal jewelry for a night out.
To buy: Silver Sequin Mini Skirt, $90
Black Bootie
Season after season, the little black bootie has stood its ground as a must-have shoe in every woman’s wardrobe. And while its well-established popularity has given rise to many variations, the one that's stayed is the simple black bootie with a heel. This clean, minimalist design gives them day-to-night status and makes them an ideal choice for jeans or trousers or dresses and skirts of any length.
To buy: Vince Camuto Bootie, $129
Oversize Clutch
If you thought a clutch was just for night, think again. When done big, this sleek evening standard transforms into a bag that goes the distance—day or night. This oversize clutch from Clare Vivier comes in a bold leopard print and is roomy enough to hold all your necessities for day, including a small umbrella.
To buy: Clare Vivier Leopard Oversize Clutch, $239
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Leather Wrap Bracelet
If you haven’t done so already, make some room in your jewelry box for a leather wrap bracelet. Giles & Brother’s delicate wrap bracelet is fashioned from thin leather, and its signature hook closure is done in an elegant gold. There’s no reason not to layer this with your watch or a selection of metal bracelets, but it will also be a standout all on its own.
To buy: Giles & Brother Hook Wrap Bracelet, $95