The Power of a Little Red Dress
Writer: Marcy Cruz
“I want to be different. If everyone is wearing black, I want to be wearing red.” ~ Maria Sharapova
Even as a young child, I loved the color red. It was something about the color red that made me smile wider and put an extra pep in my step. When I wore red, I held my head up higher and felt on top of the world.
It’s amazing how powerful wearing certain colors can be to your confidence and overall mood. For me, wearing red truly makes me feel beautiful, unstoppable and strong.
Fashion authorities always say that every woman should own a little black dress (LBD) and while I agree with that, I also think we should all own a little red dress (LRD) too!
Red is a great color to pair with neutrals because it’s so bold and marries well with so many prints and neutral colors. I especially love pairing red with black and white prints and leopard print. I did just that recently for my birthday, pairing this amazing red dress from Eloquii with my new leopard print Pumas.
I love the freedom that comes with individual style. A little red dress is like a blank canvas that can be enhanced with the addition of other complementary colors and details. It gives me the freedom to take that dress to new levels, in whatever way I want.
So when I saw this Ponte Fit and Flare Dress from On The Plus Side was available in red, I had to have it.
I love how a fit and flare fits my body shape. I have an hourglass shape with a slight pear bottom. So a fit and flare style emphasizes my waist while offering room for my hips to move around comfortably.
If you carry weight on top, a fit and flare silhouette can give you an illusion of a waist. This is a style that works for many body shapes. And ponte knit fabric is so comfortable. This was a must-have for my closet — a fit and flare dress in ponte knit that was available in red? Yes!
I buy pieces that are versatile and can be worn in many ways. That way, I can re-wear styles from my closet but still have fresh looks that are appropriate for any occasion. A black leather jacket is perfect to pair with a red dress.
I have had this faux leather jacket with lace sleeves from Catherines for a few years now and it is my go-to when wanting to adding a feminine edge to any look.
I finished the look for some peep-toe mules and a pewter clutch. This look is effortless and I am ready to go to a lunch date, dinner, drinks or an event.
There are times I like to incorporate a streetwear vibe into my looks. I am a firm believer of being true to yourself when it comes to your style. When you wear what you love, it shows in your confidence, your mood and how you tackle life and its ups and downs. Fashion is that armor to help you look fabulous and feel fabulous no matter what.
I’m a sneaker girl at heart and while some may tell me I should wear heels, I stay true to myself by making sneakers work within my style and what I wear. Because that is my style.
When the weather gets colder, I look forward to pairing this dress with some knee high black leather boots and a cropped moto jacket, wrap or cardigan. In the warmer months, I will wear it on its own with sandals or pull-on sneakers that has some bling on them. The style possibilities are endless with a LRD.
If you don’t own a little red dress, I think it’s time you should. Take a chance. Try it. You never know. You might end up realizing your inner queen is ready to come out and be powerful, confident and have fun with life.
For reference, my measurements are 57-50-68.
Check out my blog for more of my journey to loving myself 100% and living my best life: www.fearlesslyjustme.net
