Style Guide #2: How to Style a Bodycon Dress

It's been a while since I posted a Style Guide on The Mod Little Melanin! Here's a step by step guide to easily dress up a simple bodycon dress for a presentable daytime look.

For this look, you will need a bodycon dress (I found this one at Forever 21) for less than $5.00. You will also need an outerwear layer of your choice. I also found my suede fringe vest at Forever 21.

Step One: Choose a bodycon dress in your favorite color to style. This dress was purchased from Forever 21's Fall Collection when deep, rich colors were in season. For Spring however, soft "baby tone" colors are in style. These colors include light pink, mint green and peach. Bright, vivid colors are also popular this season such as royal blue and magenta. As well as your traditional floral print. However, if those aren't your colors of choice, beige or black are in season no matter the weather.

Step Two: Layer a corresponding outerwear layer over your bodycon dress. I choose to add my suede, fringe vest because of the black neckline of my dress. A perfect in season option is to add an oversized denim jacket to your look. Shophopes.com has two options that are perfect for Spring! I am in love with the Urban Desire Jacket in Pink Denim and the Spring Is In The Air Jacket on their website. Another option is to tie a button down shirt around your waist in a corresponding color to match your dress. I love to take flannel shirts for this style trick! You can find tons of flannel shirts on sale now at Rue 21.

Step Three: Complete the look with your favorite accessories. I choose to add a pair of lace up, heeled booties I found at Charlotte Russe during one of their shoe sales, and a crossbody Coach bag. My choker is from Forever 21. A popular trend this season is to pair tennis shoes such as Converses with your dress for a Sporty Chic look. I'm not a big tennis shoe wearer and find all of my shoes for this trend at Rue 21 for under $15.

- Chelsea Nicole, The Mod Little Melanin