Gosh Garnet Swing Dress

At this point it’s probably pretty clear that I love Swing Dresses from Old Navy. I’ve posted about them a few times- here, here and here. 🙂 So, you won’t be surprised that I chose to wear one for my official blog photoshoot.  This time it’s a beautiful garnet swing dress- a color that I’ve seen a lot of this year.

As my blog continues to grow, pictures seemed like the next logical step. My pictures were done by Sara Johnson Photography. She is a fabulous photographer and a former coworker of mine. (Friends supporting friends, right?) If you’re in the area, check her out. She made this session enjoyable even though it was cold outside and I felt kind of silly. I love the way they turned out! Seeing these pictures makes me feel beautiful and I think Sara captured the essence of Caitlin Cosmetologist. AND you get to see a little bit of where I’m from. I’m excited to have these images to use on my blog and social media. I hope you like them, too!

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Dress | Necklace | Earrings | Shoes (Similar)

I ordered the dress in a tall medium and it fits perfectly. But, it comes in petite and regular sizes as well.  Gosh Garnet is the name of this shade but there are many color and pattern options.

While I’m into style, I don’t post as much about it as other topics. I try to post only if the images are right and the items are available. And that can be tricky. For instance, by the time I got these photos back and this post ready, the website was saying this dress was out of stock. Good news is that they have Swing Dresses every season so keep your eye out for spring versions soon. So, in addition to showing you my new pictures I thought I would also talk about versatile wardrobe pieces.

When it comes to my personal style I like to be trendy but I also like to find affordable pieces. I’m working on paying down loans so I can’t justify buying several new pieces each season. I DO buy pieces with specific holidays or events in mind but my closet mostly consists of basics that I can wear different ways for different occassions.  For example, I bought a top for Thanksgiving but it’s something I can wear again for date night.

What makes this outfit versatile?

Feel good piece(s)

Something that can be worn multiple ways. Maybe a cardigan or a pair of jeans. In this case it’s a garnet swing dress. I tend to have a lot of neutral colored basics so a vivid color seemed like a good addition to my closet.

Statement accessory

A necklace or a scarf can add a lot to an outfit. You could wear the dress with a necklace for your work party and then with a scarf for a dinner later on. Although the dress is bold, it coordinates with several scarves and necklaces I already own because it’s one solid color. I did pick this necklace up for this look specifically, but it can be worn with other things, too.

Matching earrings

Most of the time I can find a matching necklace and earrings set but this time I had to get creative.  The earrings are a little different than what I would normally go for which I like. Smaller earrings work better with scarves, in my opinion, because they don’t get caught. Which is happening to me pretty often this winter, haha.

Cute shoes

I actually bought these shoes a few years back after seeing them on somone’s blog. I can’t even remember who’s it was. They’re fun without taking away from the rest of the outfit. I like to save them for holidays or special events to keep them in good shape. Shoes are definitely accessories and give your feel good piece a different look.

Building a wardrobe with these types of items is practical for someone on a budget. It’s also great for a work wardrobe! If you’re like me and have a separate little wardrobe for work- accessories help to switch it up a bit and not feel so bored with what you’re wearing.

What wardrobe pieces are must haves for you?