Denim Redefined :: layering + denim dress

Ah denim. What can't it do? Not only do denim pants (aka jeans) totally rock and are a basic staple for everybody ever, but now denim is looking super classy and polished in the form of, well, just about anything! From sleek pencil skirts to modern moto jackets and trench coats, denim has reached an all-time high. My newest denim obsession? An LDD (little denim dress). Welcome to the world of denim, redefined. 

A denim jumper is a redefining piece. To own such a versatile and timeless dress is truly a game changer. This is one of those purchases that effortlessly goes a long way. I mean, look at how versatile it is; the styling possibilities are endless. I can wear this piece during any season either by itself, layered with any type of shirt underneath (collared, long sleeves, sleeveless, etc.), with a blazer over it, layered under a pullover sweater, or even with any type of vest or cardigan. Eventually this baby pays for itself. Get my exact same one here (it's on sale for less than $45!)

For extra coverage and warmth, I styled a sleeveless turtleneck underneath my denim sheath dress. I love how it pokes out, adding interest and dimension to my outfit. I actually had a friend tell me I should hide my turtleneck sleeves by tucking them behind the straps of my dress. Obviously I didn't do that. It may not work for everybody but I love the unconventional, slightly unkempt look of this layering technique; it's real and and of-the-moment. 

You guessed it - more layers! These necklaces look like two peas in a pod but they're actually separate. I decided to layer them because apparently I'm really into that right now and is one ever really enough? ;)

Remember when it was sooo not cool to show your socks? I'm talking back in my middle school days, circa 2004/2007, when revealing socks - no matter what type of shoe you had on - was a big fashion faux pas. I had those super tiny socks for my sneakers and sometimes I would even avoid socks all together - I know, ew. The things we used to do for fashion! However I'm glad that in 2015 it's okay, dare I say cool, to show off your socks. Wearing boots or even sandals with socks makes a stylish and trendy statement!

These Elizabeth Cole studs are not only unique and quite charming, but they're also proudly made in the U.S.A. I love how the pearl disk shines just enough to make them visible from afar. 

Normally I wear a watch and at least one more bracelet. However I didn't want to overcrowd the look since there was already a lot of layering going on. For once I decided to keep my wrists pretty simple and I even chose to keep one completely bare! 

A plum lip instantly adds major fall appeal to any look. I have three purpley shades in my lipstick repertoire but here I decided to go with 'vivid violet' by Smashbox. It contains pink and purple tones, making it universally flattering. For me fall is all about these darker hues! 

Photos by Ryan Kathleen Greene 

[dress: Ann Taylor // sleeveless turtleneck: Ann Taylor // socks: Gap // booties: Sam Edelman // clutch: Ann Taylor // layered necklaces: Ann Taylor // earrings: Elizabeth Cole // gold spike bracelet: Stella & Dot // heart tag bracelet: Tiffany & Co. // eyeshadow: Naked 2 palette // lipstick: Smashbox in 'Vivid Violet'] 

Denim will always hold a special place in my heart and now it holds (multiple) special places in my closet! 

SHOP ::