A Bolder Shoulder // high-low skirt + sweetheart neckline

Street-influenced style with a couture spin is the look of the season. So I took that trend a step further and added my own version of polish to a date night ensemble. And while it's not really a fusion of uptown/downtown, it's certainly a look that'll turn heads no matter WHERE you are. 

Although this is a date night look, you don't have to JUST reserve a dramatic skirt for after dark. This statement bottom looks fabulous with everything from t-shirts to sexy off-the-shoulder tops. But it also creates a killer evening outfit with virtually zero effort. Just look at how it drapes and flows - it's a date night no-brainer for sure! 

My secret to this flawlessly tucked-in top? It's not tucked in at all! And it's actually a bodysuit rather than a top - did I fool anyone? At this point, the wonders and magic of the bodysuit are pretty well known, and for good reason. I myself am obsessed with bodysuits as they make getting dressed a cinch. I love the special touches this one has - like the sweetheart neckline and off-the-should detailing. It's pretty & polished, and will never look sloppy.  

There are so many things about this heel that I love. It's suede - aka perfect for fall - it has a block heel, which makes it super easy to walk in, and it dresses up any outfit without trying too hard. When at a loss for what shoes to wear, just remember that you can never go wrong with a straight-forward ankle-strap heel. 

Similar to my stylish yet no-fuss footwear, a simple patent leather clutch is a closet essential for a variety of reasons. A style like this is chic, sleek, and extremely versatile. And bonus - this one fits my wallet, keys, AND more than a few lipsticks...because, you know, being prepared is important. 

When styling an eye-catching neckline like the one my bodysuit has, keeping jewelry to a minimum is your best plan of action. While I didn't want to overwhelm my look with a necklace, a look-at-me earring served as the perfect finishing touch to elegantly top off this outfit. 

Using Urban Decay's Naked 3 palette, which features rose golds and shades of purple, I gave myself a romantic smoky eye. See the flecks of pink on my lids? I wanted to subtly tie in my makeup to my skirt and give off an overall flirty feel. 

This is one of my favorite looks. Wearing it around New York City, I felt comfortable, beautiful, and confident. And while it's a bit more daring than I typically go for, I think that's what made me fall in love with it. After all, stepping OUT of your comfort zone is the best way to discover your true self. 

Photos by Antonio Owens 

[skirt: Zara (old, but I also like this one) // bodysuit: Express (similar look here) // heels: Ann Taylor (super similar pair here) // clutch: Hobo (I also like this one) // earrings: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // amethyst bangle: David Yurman // heart tag bracelet: Tiffany & Co. // cuff: Ted Baker // lipstick: Bare Pop by Clinique // eyeshadow: Naked 3 palette by Urban Decay]

Of course I couldn't call this a "date night" outfit without testing it out as such first. And I am happy to report that yes, this is a *tested* and approved date night look - would I ever steer you wrong? 

I wore this beautiful number out to an Italian restaurant/wine bar on the Upper Eastside with my longtime boyfriend. And not only did his jaw drop just a little when he first saw me, but I felt like a true princess the entire night! Now if that's not proof enough of a fantastic date night look, then I don't know what is! Oh, and I did I mention that our waitress complimented my outfit? Because she did ;)

 // SHOP //