reworking last summer's dress

Sperry Top-Sider Summerlin $79.95

A new season means that you get to rediscover all of your favorites from past years. But sometimes even the best piece from last year can fall flat. When Emily tried this dress on, she said it felt a little like a sack, but she wasn't sure what to pair it with to create a better shape.

This dress comes with a thin sash in the same fabric, but since it doesn't add contrast or structure, I switched it out for a wide braided brown belt to create a waist.

Jane Stone Bubble Bib Necklace $9.99

LOFT Textured Braided Belt $29.50

Vince Camuto Two Button Blazer $150

To add a punch of color, I added a bright bauble necklace in a warm red-coral. The necklace doesn't need to be as large as the one pictured, just look for something to lighten and brighten the tan and brown in the dress!

Emily is always looking for ways to wear her white linen blazer so I decided to pair it back to the dress to add more structure. When a dress needs definition, style it with jackets instead of cardigans to offset all the soft edges.

Finally finish off the outfit with a flat metallic sandal to look chic but not overdressed. Perfect for a summertime walk followed by dinner and drinks on the patio!

Have a difficult piece that you'd like featured on the blog? Send a photo or link of the item to practicallystylishblog@gmail.com with a quick description of why you are flummoxed by the item.