Inspiration Board: Maryse - Lacy Layers

I have - unsuprisingly :) - been head-over-stilettos for Maryse's tv look ever since she re-debuted. It's a fabulous combination of audacity, temptation and fierceness. Her formula is to pair a bodysuit with OTK boots and top it all off with a statement coat, generally of trench or duster length. Her favorite accents include rebellious studs or elegant, sexy lace. These combos are crave-worthy under spotlights...but a little trickier to re-create in real life. I brainstormed on this challenge for a bit and came to the conclusion that light layers would do the trick here, giving the same impression of a complex mix of elements, while allowing the modesty factor to be addressed as needed. So, simple things first: start this look with black leggings (or sateen skinny pants, if you're daring ;)) Next, pick out your layers. While Maryse goes for statement coats, they are often the most expensive pieces in a wardrobe. If you're trying to be practical, go for a more classic topper (possibly with a hint of unique embellishment - a ruffle-detailed trench, a pleated A-line-shape piece or a simple duster -which is such a fun and head-turning piece on it's own that no embellishment is required). By staying with a plainer piece, you'll get more from your investment by being able to wear it with a greater variety of looks and through a multitude of trends. (Check out Bebe and Asos for these kind of pieces). Once you have a curated collection of basics in your wardrobe and are just looking for a special splurge, that's when you go for the statement piece. (Take a look at Free People for that kind of thing; they generally offer some really spectacular options each season). If you want to go half-and-half, like basic-but-with-a-detail, try Anthropologie or ModCloth.). Bring the drama to the look with your underlayers. The one to go really wild with is your cami (feel free to do a bustier instead ;)). Play with full-on lace, jacquard fabric, all-over sequins, stud accents, lace-up details...really push the envelope! Don't hold back - remember, it's going to be partially covered anyway, which will mute whatever the embellishment is. The only rule is: neutrals. Stay in the black, gray, earthen gold, flax, tan, white, ivory color family. Note: the first two are closest in spirit to Maryse. The next layer can be a light, longer cardigan (for fall, chilly nights or air conditioning), or a tunic-length button-front top (for sweltering days). It should bring some small detail to the look: an asymmetrical hem, an open-weave pattern or sheer fabric, or some bit of embellishment: crochet, lace, ruffle(s), scallop trim. If it's super-steamy outside, this can even be your top layer. Belt or sash it, or wear the tunic with just one or two buttons done up wherever you want the visual waist to be. The alternating textures between layers echo the depth of Maryse's look, while your base layer brings the fierce (and possibly the sultry, depending on what you've picked), aided and abetted by your skinny pants. If you need to amp it up a bit, add a statement necklace or bold belt (you can switch out the trench's for one of your own, or work with both). Finish the look off with chic black flats or simple heeled sandals and voila: you're a double for Maryse. Hope you've been working on that hair flip ;). XOs