I’ve been going through my wardrobe lately trying to style some items that I don’t wear often.  There are a few things that, while I really like, I just don’t seem to get the wear out of them.  So I have really been making an effort to work some of the less-worn items into my regular wardrobe.

 

In addition to that, I recently saw the documentary Iris.  I was so inspired by Iris Apfel’s “wear what you want, just because you want to” style of dressing that I really wanted to wear something that would make a splash.  I suddenly felt the need for crazy patterns, layers and some serious eyewear.

 

And so this outfit came to be.  I got the dress from my parents as a birthday gift a few years back, and I’ve only worn it a couple of times.  The body-con shape isn’t one I generally feel comfortable rocking.  But I was really feeling the pattern-clashing vibe when I found this swing vest tucked into the back of my wardrobe.  Purchased at the Mill Markets about eight years ago, this darling has been worn as a coat, over jeans and even as a wrap dress.  In fact you might recognise it from my blog header!  It seemed like the perfect way to cover up a little, and add a bit more interest to this outfit.

 

 

I am wearing:

• Tribal print dress from Mink Pink
• Brown swing vest from the Mill Markets
• Black tights from Razzamatazz
• Black bamboo layering top from Target
• Brown boots (thrifted)
• Art deco earrings from Lovisa
• Gold snake chain (inherited from my Nana)

I am also pretty chuffed with this new lipstick I got.  It’s the Lipstick Queen Bete Noir in Possessed Intense and I just adore it.  The colour is an amazing matte blackberry shade that looks so dramatic.  I’ve been wearing it a lot and I’ve received so many compliments on this lippie.

All in all, I think throwing the swing vest over this dress made it a lot more wearable for me.  I didn’t feel as exposed as I normally do in a body con dress, but the open vest allowed the dress shine through without being completely hidden.  I think Iris would be proud of this ensemble.