As much as I get a kick out of putting together new outfit combinations, sometimes I just want to keep it minimal…but without sacrificing style. That’s why I gravitated to this simple dress. I’m loving how effortlessly elegant, and flattering, its flowy silhouette is. I stepped up the vibe with these statement boots. Their modern take on the Western trend is on point!

Simple Dress

This charcoal midi dress is all about understated details. Its round neck and below-the-elbow length sleeves with ruffled elastic cuffs are classic, demure touches, while its asymmetric hem gives it some flouncy attitude. Best of all, this dress is ready to be dressed up (think strappy black heels) or down (think animal-print designer sneakers). Simple, yes. Versatile, yaasss. (Size tip: I almost always size up in Zara dresses and this was no exception. More flow = more style.)

Statement Boots

It’s no secret that the Western trend, especially in footwear, has been all over the fashion runways. As well as in some of my previous posts — as seen here and here. So it’s not just me! This is one trend with staying power. And these statement boots “go West” in all the best ways, from their knee-high silhouette to their chunky block heel, snake embossing and polished studs.

Add Accessories

While I would never say no to a gift of fine jewelry, I’m always on the lookout for great-looking, affordable “faux” jewelry that will up my style game without a hefty price tag. Cue these fun, fringed earrings and this layered necklace look (3 pieces that come as a set).

This crossbody camera bag was shopped from my closet. It’s a great, on-the-go shape and size that works with a wardrobe’s worth of outfits. Crafted in vegetable-tanned leather with a softly waxed finish that deepens into a distinctive patina, you can truly make it your own with a custom monogram. My exact bag is no longer available, but the new-and-improved version lets you choose from two strap options as well. Wouldn’t it make a great gift this holiday season?

I struggled a bit with the right outerwear to layer over this flowy dress, and a shopped-from-my-closet cashmere poncho proved to be the perfect solution. If you don’t own a poncho, it’s a versatile cover-up to consider adding to your wardrobe. A cozy poncho also makes a fantastic travel companion — on the plane, then layered over whatever else you’ve packed. I also shopped my closet for my favorite black fedora. It always makes a bad hair day better!

Dress: (Zara, also in khaki) Like this (in 2 chic, chiffon animal prints), this (floaty black floral AND 25% off with code STARTEARLY) and this (in party-ready taffeta), too.

Boots: (Coach, also in black but this colorway selling out fast.)

Earrings: (Loft, also in gold ochre and rubelite, ON SALE & EXTRA 40% OFF, can you say order in every color?)

Necklace Set: (Loft, sold out, but similar ON SALE options here and here.)

Bag: (old, Madewell but love the new version!)

Poncho: (old, Iris & Ink) Great reversible and ON SALE option here and wool blend turtleneck option here.

Hat: (old, Biltmore) Similar here and here.

Photos by Kristin Moore-Gantz.