I fell in love with the silky fabric of this pink floral dress immediately. Is it the most practical option? Probably not. But all I have to do is add my favorite denim jacket to feel confident wearing it on a normal day.

Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress

Photos by Riss Rahm

Outfit Details: Loft denim jacket, Kate Spade dress, Kate Spade handbag (similar), Sam Edelman heels

Let me guess. You splurged on a fancy dress for a wedding you went to this summer — or maybe it was a work event — and now you think you’ll never wear that dress again because…
 
A. It’s now fall
B. You don’t have a reason to get dressed up
C. All of the above 
 
Sound familiar? Trust me, I know the feeling. But I’m all about versatility in my wardrobe (more about that here and here). I’ve discovered one of my favorite ways to dress down a fancier look is by adding a denim jacket. Yep, it really is that easy.

Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress

Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress

Denim Jacket + Silk Dress: Why It Works

Denim jackets feel casual and approachable, which is why people often think to pair them with equally casual pieces. But something magical happens when you throw a jean jacket on top of a fancier party dress. That dress becomes fair game to wear to the office or to meet up with friends any day.

Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress
Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress

Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress

By pairing these two pieces together, you’re not just creating a stylish everyday outfit. No, no. I’m all about value. You’ll get way more value out of a dress you feel confident wearing on any day compared to the one you just wear once.

Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress

Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress

The best news is this trick doesn’t just work with denim jackets and dresses. I love wearing my denim jacket with dress pants and skirts too. Leather jackets are also a great way to extend the life of your feminine and summery pieces during the fall.

Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress
Denim Jacket + Silk Floral Dress

Shop the Look

I paired this look with my favorite pair of black Sam Edelman heels, but I’d also wear it with more casual shoes. And seriously, if you don’t already own a denim jacket, what are you waiting for? Mine is honestly one of the most-worn items in my closet, no matter the time of year. I’ve put together some similar outfit combinations below so you can try this look for yourself.