Classics Rock: Give New Life to Closet Stand-bys

Michael Waring
Think you have nothing to wear? Then try these new, unexpected ways to remaster what's already in your closet.
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Not Just 9-to-5

Michael Waring

Let a pantsuit clock in some overtime. Simply mix in chic separates, like this sleek body-hugging tunic sweater, over suit pants. Add a low-slung silver belt and shiny flats for just enough glitz.

Sweater, United Colors of Benetton, $59. Pants, BITTEN Sarah Jessica Parker, $19.98. Belt, Via Spiga, $80. Bag, Aldo, $40. Bracelets (top to bottom), Alltherageonline, $18; Antiquities, $55; Alltherageonline, $22. Shoes, Hush Puppies, $69.

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Equestrian Chic

Michael Waring

Soften things up by cinching your blazer -- a quick look-slim trick -- and pairing with capris and knee-high boots.

Jacket, BITTEN Sarah Jessica Parker, $19.98. Top, American Eagle Outfitters, $34.50. Pants, Dockers, $42. Necklace, Capelli New York, $12. Belt, American Eagle Outfitters, $24.50. Boots, Etienne Aigner, $159.

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Office Casual

Michael Waring

Comfy and casual without looking messy: Just match your slacks with a denim jacket and trendy track shoes.

Jacket, Apostrophe, $44. Top, DKNY JEANS, $69. Tee, Zena Jeans, $24. Bag, Aldo, $60. Shoes, Hush Puppies, $79.

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All Business

Michael Waring

A flirty skirt and lacy top can still mean business when you add a belted jacket and retro peep-toe pumps.

Top, American Eagle Outfitters, $29.50. Skirt, Pendleton, $128. Belt, American Eagle Outfitters, $24.50. Necklace, 2028, $48. Sunglasses, BITTEN Sarah Jessica Parker, $9.98. Shoes, Fitzwell, $74.95.

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Go-To Skirt

Michael Waring

An embellished printed tee adds laid-back, funky flair to a pencil skirt. Stick to a fitted top that hits at the waist to look more chic than biker chick. Details like a metallic purse and colored leather ankle boots show off your fun side.

Top, DKNY JEANS, $49. Skirt, Brooks Brothers, $188. Bracelets, Maurices, $8. Ring, Foxy Originals, $12. Bag, Loeffler Randall for Target, $24.99. Boots, Via Spiga, $295.

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Satin Surprise

Michael Waring

The most modern way to wear a silky tunic is over a slimming skirt. Add a belt to break up the length.

Top, Ali Ro, $160. Belt, Buji Baja by Hat Attack, $38. Boots, Apepazza, $185.

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Color Counts

Michael Waring

A curve-hugging sweater over a crisp button-down is the key to not looking like one of the guys. Brighten things up around the office with fun accessories like a floral bag or colorful flats.

Sweater, Chadwick's, $49.99. Shirt, Nautica, $69. Bag, LeSportsac boutique, $118. Shoes, American Eagle Outfitters, $34.50.

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Be Mine

Michael Waring

Valentine's Day dinner plans? Sweeten up your skirt with a flowy top, cropped cardigan, and metallic kitten heels.

Jacket, nicole by Nicole Miller for JCPenney, $48. Top, Esprit, $59.50. Shoes, Carlos by Carlos Santana, $89.

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Jeans Substitute

Michael Waring

Do away with the stockings on cold days by wearing a shirtdress over jeans. A layer of dark denim breaks up all-over prints. Go with a straight-leg jean to balance out a billowy top.

Dress, Donna Morgan, $160. Tank, Adea, $48. Jeans, Esprit, $89.50. Necklace, Laura J. Designs, $110. Bracelet, Roberta Chiarella, $58. Gold Bracelet, Alltherageonline, $20. Shoes, Etienne Aigner, $49.

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Glam It Up

Michael Waring

Make any pair of jeans look richer by adding a deep jewel-toned knit with eye-catching details.

Top, Liz Claiborne, $188. Jeans, Levi Strauss Signature, $19.95. Shoes, Aerosoles, $79.

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Work Appropriate

Michael Waring

Dark denim's fine for work when you wear with a tailored jacket, layered pearls, and classy flats.

Jacket, Pendleton, $198. Necklace, Carolee, $60. Shoes, Geox, $140.

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Not-So-Everyday

Michael Waring

A vest makes your everyday T-shirt-and-jeans trendy. And a few sparkles of gold amp up the chic factor.

Sweater, DKNY JEANS, $89. Top, American Eagle Outfitters, $39.50. Bag, Loeffler Randall for Target, $19.99. Shoes, Carlos by Carlos Santana, $89.

Copyright © 2008. Used with permission from the February 2008 issue of Family Circle magazine.

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