Photo: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
While a dress blazer gives a plain skirt and shirt a professional vibe, you don't always want to look ready for a job interview. Switch out that dress blazer for less structured pieces and you can change your entire look. If you still want that tailored, fitted effect that a dress blazer lends an outfit, choose outerwear constructed of body-skimming fabrics and with a cut that narrows at the waist.
Kimono Wrap Jacket
Kimono-style blouses and jackets flatter most figures because you can adjust them to accentuate your assets. If you have a short waist, choose a kimono wrap with a detachable belt and cinch it around your hips rather than your midsection. Create an hourglass figure by choosing a kimono wrap in a torso-hugging fit. You can camouflage a rounder belly by wearing a style that skims over, rather than hugs, your waistline. A kimono jacket in a jewel tone or with an ornate print dresses up a simple outfit, while a basic black or navy wrap functions as a neutral.
Cardigan
The basic boyfriend cardigan gives your little black dress a weekend casual look. However, cable knits and thick wools add width to your silhouette. Move beyond the bulky and informal with close-fitting cardigans in fine weaves. Go with a long, skinny cardigan in a dark hue for a slimming effect, or choose a short, bolero-style cut to show off your waistline. A cardigan with a deep V-neck flatters most figures and allows your top to peek through.
Pashmina Shawl
The luxe texture of Pashmina wool makes a simple scarf, poncho or shawl look elegant. Pashmina wraps are far more flexible than tailored blazers. Wind the fabric around your neck for Parisian cool. Drape it over your shoulders to showcase a vivid print or decorative embroidery and beading. If you have a large Pashmina wrap, let it cascade over your waist and belt it to give you a feminine silhouette.
Accessories
If the weather is warm, you may not need a dress blazer at all. Well-chosen accessories can do wonders for a plain outfit. Rock a sleeveless dress to a summer picnic and doll it up with a simple strand of pearls. Make that workday shift work overtime by donning shoes in a bright color. A simple skinny T-shirt and jeans looks ready for the club when you pop on peep-toe boots or a chain-link belt.
