Elaine Davis (56) is a New York City-based entrepreneur who documents her outfits on her blog, Square Pearls. Her style is fashion-forward, sophisticated, and elegant. Elaine is a big fan of shirtdresses. She’s also an expert at creative layering, and adores animal print and a good knee-high boot.
“Over the past five years my style has become way more personal. I don’t look so much at what’s currently trending, but I focus more on what I love, and what feels good when I put it on. I would say my style is very mood oriented.”
Elaine has several clothing items in this rich shade of teal, and it looks exquisite on her. She found this fab shirtdress at Zara, and calls it one of those “luxe for less pieces.” The satin finish indeed gives it a sophisticated luxe vibe, while the impeccable fit also contributes to that. The dress has an elegant below-the-knee length, and the self-coloured belt adds structure and accentuates our blogger’s waist. Wearing her hair in a low ponytail let’s the V-neck shine. Elaine has paired the dress with leopard print slingbacks whose black stud detailing echoes the black of her small structured bag. Cat eye sunnies and small earrings complete the look.
Our blogger successfully combines three statement pieces in this fashion-forward outfit. The asymmetrical hemline on the calf-length distressed denim skirt draws the eye up and down. Elaine has tucked in a texture-rich cream cable-knit sweater, which lengthens the leg line from the hip upward. She’s sporting pointy-toe knee-high boots in an eye-catching snakeprint that provide tons of sassy visual interest. The short puffer is the third statement piece. The crisp off-white colour works perfectly with the rest of the cool-toned colour palette. While its boxy fit and faux leather material add fashion-forward drama. A small white handbag and pearl earrings provide extra polish.
Here’s an elegant black-and-white outfit with plenty of visual interest. Elaine is wearing herringbone bootcut pants with a pressed crease that accentuates the beautiful fit. Tucking in a black turtleneck showcases the on-trend high waist. Crisp white almond-toe slingback pumps peeking out from under the trousers lengthen the leg line. The thigh-length zebra print wool coat has a tailored fit that adds structure and elevates the outfit to the next level. Picking a topper in the same black and white, but in a statement print is a clever way to pattern mix. An oversized black leather envelope clutch fits right in with the colour palette. Wearing her hair down brings softness to the look. Rich plum lippy is the cherry on the cake.
This is one of the best slip dress outfits I’ve ever seen. The fit and style of the midi dress have a lot to do with that. The fit is just fluid enough to feel easy breezy, the satin finish creates a sense of glam and texture, and the dipped in neckline is unusual and adds a bit of alluring structure. Elaine pairs the dress with a leopard print blazer in that on-trend longer, oversized silhouette that is just flattering enough. Opting for big sneakers in fun colours adds a Sporty Luxe touch. Our blogger’s side braid adds casual nonchalance. Her small brown bag and gold watch finish off the look.
Elaine is an expert in creative layering. Here, she’s wearing a fluid fit midi dress over straight cropped jeans. The midi dress has a beautiful black, grey and red horizontal pattern that reminds me of mid-century crockery and wall paper. Her cropped jeans are a greyish blue that matches the grey in her fun dress. Her pointy-toe stiletto ankle boots have vertical studs running down the middle. A clever detail that lengthens the leg line and adds soft edge. A black peacoat forms the third layer and works well with the rest of the colours. The body and sleeves are very roomy, but the shoulders are fitted, which creates just enough structure. Once again, Elaine’s hair worn down adds a touch of softness.
Our blogger’s grey kaftan-esque midi dress is the star of the show in this look. The fluid fit dress has a suede-like finish and vertical self-pattern that add both visual and textural interest. The V-neckline and short sleeves are perfect for layering, and Elaine picked an eye-catching snakeskin top with mock turtleneck and body-con fit to do the honours. The animal print adds both extra texture and drama. The black suede knee-high boots with block heel look elegant with the dress and make the entire outfit look soft to the touch. Elaine’s black fedora brings glam to the party, and her teal leather tote a nice bit of colour.
I can’t wait to hear what you think of Elaine’s elegant and creative style. Let us know in the comments, and be sure to check out the rest of her beautiful outfits on her blog.
