All Dressed Up

POST SPONSORED BY BONMARCHÉ

Dresses are a busy girl's best friend. When I'm going from work to an event or two, or maybe a date with the boy, the right frock can work for any occasion with a change of accessories and shoes. On rushed mornings, there's no need to fret over disparate pieces that don't quite go together (which blouse with which pants, and which sweater on top of it all?). Getting dressed is literally as easy as, well, getting dressed.

Don't believe that dresses can be wardrobe workhorses? Take a look at these three outfits I put together using dresses found on Bonmarché.

Dress | Glasses | Blazer | Earrings | Tote | Watch | Ankle Boots

Work

A tailored shift in a black-and-grey houndstooth pattern is classic and office-appropriate. A blue blazer adds a jolt of colour, while a colour-blocked leather tote holds all the essentials you'll need during your commute. Chunky-heeled ankle boots and a rose gold watch make it easy to dash from meeting to meeting in style. With so much colour and pattern at play, subtle accessories like smart specs and gold knot earrings provide the perfect finishing touches.

Dress | Cardigan | Boots | Clutch

Weekend

Weekends are all about easy dressing. After all, a girl doesn't want to fuss when there are leisurely brunches to be enjoyed, latte dates with girlfriends to be had, and errands to run. A dress is an easy way to look pulled together in a hurry, especially when it comes in an adorable polka dot pattern. For comfort and style, add a bright and cozy cardigan and tall cognac leather boots made for walking. Ditch the weekday work tote in favour of a roomy clutch with enough space for money, credit cards, ID, phone, keys, and your favourite lipstick. (I like red leather because it provides a colourful counterpoint to any outfit and is surprisingly versatile.)

Dress | Necklace | Clutch | Shoes

Date Night

Whether it's reservations at the newest restaurant in town or a romantic evening at a favourite eatery, a special date with your significant other calls for a bit more effort. I love the inherent simplicity of this outfit (only four pieces!), but each element packs a lot of visual impact. A blue-and-black colour-blocked sheath and orange envelope clutch play off each other. Gold-accented accessories (in this case, an elaborate statement necklace and cap-toed snakeskin T-strap pumps) add just the right amount of metallic shine for a night out.