Your New Wardrobe Solution: Evening Separates!

It's that season again (but when ISN'T it, right?), and clients are coming in panicked about what to wear to a gala or wedding. We've heard the same refrains over and over again, so let's break it down:

• Department Store Disasters: You've seen it all before, and if you haven't, one of your friends has. It's like a red carpet repeat, and we're not here for a "Who Wore It Better" showdown. When you’re paying top dollar, you don’t want to look like everyone else.

• The Fit Fiasco: You find the perfect dress, but it’s too tight, too loose, or just not your color. Who knew finding the right outfit was like a never-ending session of Barbie dress-up? (Ken’s clueless.)

• Event Overload: With 10 events in 2 months, you can't show up in the same dress every time. Not that you can’t (Anna Wintour does it), but it's more fun to mix it up.

• The Shopping Struggle: You love fashion but hate shopping. It’s like a bad rom-com where you’re Julia Roberts, and shopping is the date you wish you'd never swiped right on. You’re over it, and so are we.

But don't worry—I have a simple solution that's going to make getting dressed for formal events a breeze: SEPARATES. Yep, evening separates are your new best friend. Here's what you need:

5 Building Blocks for Your Capsule Evening Wardrobe

• Ball Skirt: Get a solid-colored ball skirt. Black, navy, or pink—whatever suits your style. Make sure it sits at your natural waist (no low-rise throwbacks here) for maximum flexibility with tops.

• Bustier: Not into strapless? No worries. Get one with an off-the-shoulder neckline. Just make sure it matches your ball skirt. It should look like a gown to the casual observer. The best kind has enough structure, so you don't need a bra.

• Silky Top: This is where you can have fun. Go for a cowl neck or a silk button-down. Solid colors are best if you're just starting out. If you find a top that fits like a dream, buy it in multiple colors. Uniforms work for a reason.

• Novelty Top: Here’s your chance to get creative. Try a fun print or lace. This is where you bring the pizzazz to your outfit. Channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw and let it shine.

• Sash Belt: This one’s a game-changer. Use it as a belt, a scarf, or a makeshift headband in a pinch. You’ll wonder why you never thought of it before. Trust me, it’s magic.

The Expansion Pack

If you're feeling adventurous, here are a few more items to expand your capsule wardrobe:

• Bodysuit: Perfect for layering without the bulk. It’s like the '80s, but chic. I like THESE.
• Lace Top: Add a little romance without overdoing it. Great for those fancy garden parties.

• White Button-Down Shirt: A classic. Dress it up or down. It’s the Swiss Army knife of tops.

With these pieces, you've got the start of a wardrobe that can keep up with your social calendar.

If you need more ideas or want to know how to build a sustainable wardrobe that grows with your social calendar, let me know! I’ve got plenty more where this came from.