What To Wear For A Casual Dinner Date

This wasn't going to be my outfit for this week's styling ideas, but I received several compliments on Saturday night, so I had to ask my friends this week what it was in particular that made them comment about what I wore, when we went out for dinner and a few cheeky drinks.

And the answer was the colour combination. My reaction was, "What? beige and black?" It doesn't seem like much to me but each of them said "yes, you don't see many people wearing it" and they are right! Like black and white, beige and black is a look everyone can work, but you do need striking accessories to elevate it and pull it all together or it can be a bit bland for a night out and not just a day look. I am sure all of you can put this classic colour combination together and give it a try. 

So let me run you through what I'm wearing. My top is Alice Temperley and it's years old but I still love it. Wrap tops are really flattering on the yummy area, or something which has gathers at the side seam and can prove a really useful top to have in your wardrobe. Then, if it's black it's even easier to wear! 

My jeans are from Madeleine again I have had these ones for ages. This style is great and will suit tummies and thighs not just stick insects like me! Of course, as the jeans have belt loops you need a belt. My belt (though you can't see it in the main picture) has random crystal studs on it, so it is edgy but not too much bling. As I said this look needs strong accessories to really work it for a night out so a statement belt really does lift this outfit.

Wedges are the perfect summer shoe and now is a great time to pick up a bargain as the shops are shifting summer shoes and sandals to make way for Autumn/Winter styles. So if you see a pair that you love grab them now and pop them away for next year. 

My little clutch bag is in faux snakeskin. I say if you were to wear matching shoes, bag and belt it's too dated a look and too "matchy matchy". But when you match only 2 pieces it works best. So creamy beige snakeskin bag & cream shoes, paired with a different coloured belt, or snakeskin bag & snakeskin belt with different shoes is the way to work the trend with 2 out of the 3 accessories only matching in colour. 

More bold accessories again to lift this look to WOW status - a signature oversized statement cuff and a brown and black cocktail ring.

Finishing the look off with of course my Apple watch, layered necklaces and Bulgari ring. These are pieces that are worth the investment and certainly worth it when you consider their price per wear, as they go with everything. 

It all starts with two great basics that are part of your style DNA which on their own are Ok but not actually that significant. What makes this look work is the adding of the accessories to elevate it to an casual evening look and importantly reflect my own personal style.

Hope this has inspired you to build different looks from what you may already have hiding in your wardrobe, just waiting to be rediscovered. 

Stylish Wishes