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Three Ways To Wear

It happens to the best of us: we fall into wardrobe ruts and sometimes you can end up wearing the same standard outfits in rotations for weeks. But with a little creativity, your wardrobe staples can pull triple-duty with three distinct looks from a single item of clothing.

Boys

For guys, I chose a plaid shirt, something any guy can find in their closet or pick up for cheap at their favourite store in a multitude of colours and styles.

Casual

For a casual, everyday look with a little extra style, throw your plaid button-down over a fitted, white, v-neck tee and a pair of slim-cut jeans. Keep accessories simple: some classic Converse sneakers and a pair of aviator sunglasses is all you need to throw on before running to class or grabbing a beer at The Spoke.

Preppy

Want to step your style up a notch? Try this classic, preppy look by wearing your plaid shirt under a buttoned-up cardigan in a neutral tone like black, grey, or camel, with the plaid peeking out around the collar. On the bottom, some clean-cut slacks in a complementary neutral colour, a pair of boat shoes, and a classic leather band watch complete the country-club prepster feel.

Dressy

Your casual plaid shirt can add some interest to even your more formal looks. Swap your standard white dress shirt for your plaid under a dark sports coat or blazer. A pair of tailored trousers, a skinny tie and quirky accessories like these dog cuff links give you a more stylish take on the typical suit look.

Girls

For girls I decided to go with a great spring staple: the floral dress. Like the plaid shirt, it comes in a multitude of colours and styles and is available at almost any store from cheap to couture. If you don’t already have one in your closet, pick one up and try out the looks below.

Casual

To keep it cute and casual, pair your floral dress with a light, fitted plaid shirt in a complementary colour, cinched at the waist with a leather waist belt. Mixing prints is a fun, fashion-forward look for spring, and the extra layer will keep you warm as we wait for the sunny weather to arrive. Add a pair of pretty sandals and a girly necklace for an easy, breezy look.

Preppy

If the occasion calls for a little extra thought, try pairing your dress with a cozy cardigan and some trendy knee-high socks. Darker co-ordinating solids work best. A pair of embellished flats add a little extra flair, while a bow headband takes the look from blasé to Blair-Waldorf-chic. You’ll feel ready to conquer the world — or at least that bio midterm — in this confident, classic look.

Dressy

Take your light and breezy dress from floral to formal with a few easy accessories. Some opaque tights and metallic heels punch up the look for a night out. Add some standout earrings and an embellished clutch to take the look from everyday to runway. Your friends won’t even recognize that it’s the same dress you wore shopping that afternoon!

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