If you saw today’s Instagram post then you will know why this topic is front and center. While I am a dress girl to be certain, I am also a huge fan of the separates as dress. Pairing a coordinating top and skirt to create an illusion of a dress is one of my favorite looks. The advantage is the two pieces can go even further when you separate and mix and match them. This is one of my favorite packing tricks when I’m trying to get a zillion outfits (okay a weeks worth) into one tiny Tumi suitcase. Pieces that multitask are space savers. #SaveSpace
Don’t travel? Everything in your closet should still work hard. I’m a huge proponent of the law of three for EVERYTHING in your closet and separates as dress pieces just might be some of the hardest working pieces I own. #NoReally
Separates as Dress
One of my favorite places to find separate pieces is Ann Taylor but they can be found almost anywhere if the designer makes multiple pieces in the same print. (ALC, Ted Baker, DVF are a few brands known to do coordinating pieces like this). #AllBrandsInMyCloset
Blackwatch | Plaid | Brown | Houndstooth | Blue
I love all the above options paired as a dress. Just add a blazer or scarf if you need more layers, tights if it is still cold where you live and finish with pumps, booties or boots. One-(ish) and done. #MondaySolved
Separates That Work Harder
Ready to separate those separates? Let’s look at ways you could mix and match the pieces even further. You now have the obligatory three looks. #ThreeTimesWinning
Blackwatch Separates Remixed
I love a good blackwatch plaid but paring it with an unexpected color makes it simply fun! If you need the third layer opt to coordinate either the blouse or the skirt.
Mauve Blouse | Earrings | Pumps | Blackwatch Skirt
Blackwatch Top | Knot Necklace | Booties | Pencil Skirt
Plaid Separates Remixed
Grounding plaids with neutrals is a sure fire way to get more looks. Whether its casual Friday in faux leather leggings or a little pencil skirt prep both are perfect.
Plaid Top | Pendant Necklace | Navy Booties | Faux Suede Leggings
*Find tons of navy boots and bootie options in this post.
Navy top | Floral Scarf | Bow Pumps | Plaid Skirt
Brown Knit Remixed
These knits were the closest I could find to mine. I like to layer mine with black or navy and then add a pop of leopard with a belt or shoes. For these looks, I opted for a fun leopard teddy or a trendy fair isle sweater for even more fun.
Knit Sweater | Leopard Coat | Lace Boots | Jeans
Sweater | Scarf | Boots | Knit Skirt
Houndstooth Remixed
I’ve been loving houndstooth lately so these pieces are at the top of my list. Pattern mix it with unique scarfs and keep the rest of the look classic (or add a leopard shoe for a something unexpected.
Many of the Ann Taylor pieces can be found for 50% off currently with all the Holiday sales. #SaveBig