The Secret of Effortless Chic Dressing, Part 2

by Daisy Lewellyn

In Part 1, I described my time-saving concept of getting ready the Effortlessly Chic way. Read on for more solutions to style situations that we seem to find ourselves in more often than not.

Your boss wants to take the team out for a celebratory cocktail after work at a new trendy hot spot. You have no time to run home and change, and you are in your standard office look: crisp collared shirt, trousers and pumps.

Style Solution: No worries, reach into your drawer (under your snack stash) for your jewelry stash. Always keep a piece or two of bold festive jewelry handy. A statement necklace, cocktail ring, cuff or layered charm bracelets, or dangly earrings will do the job! Choose your earrings or necklace and pair it with the arm candy or ring. Kudos to you for raising the bar. (Tip: make sure the jewelry is costume so you don't have to worry about any sticky fingers in the office.)

With the help of the StyleBakery denim guides, you are proud to say that you have finally found the perfect pair of jeans for your body type. Whew! You practically live in them, and decided to, once again, wear them to casual Friday with ballet flats. Just one problem, at work you check your Blackberry and remember that you have your girlfriend's bday dinner tonight. Yikes!

Style Solution: During my days at Glamour, all of the editors had one thing in common: we all had at least one pair of rescue shoes under our desk, just in case we got called to go to a last minute event. Toss those ballet flats after 5pm and change into your sexy shoes that you keep in your desk or car. Something flirty and festive for these kind of situations will do. A fabulous shoe can transform any look immediately! Voila!

You just got a call... your aunt scored tickets to the talk of the century's sold out play that is only in town for one more night. You have been dying to see it! The ticket is yours if you can meet her downtown in two shakes of a monkey's tale. You have nothing to wear!

Style Solution: Reach into your closet for your most favorite fitting dress. Whether it is a lovely LBD, a piece with fantastic sleeves, or a dreamy neckline, it will take seconds to put on. It's flattering, easy, and can work the room no matter the time of day! Grab a cute clutch and you are out the door.