h and m black maxi dress H&m ruffle Unlined. H&M cut out open back

Black patent leather Chelsea boots can serve as a modern and streamlined alternative to traditional dress shoes

Club L Plus Wrap Front Cape Midi Dress in Velvet, $55, ASOS RELATED: 35 budget-friendly tights and socks that will keep your tootsies warm Pool slides Those triple-stripe Adidas shower shoes that you used to rock (just hopefully not with socks) are suddenly cool and fashionable to wear just about anywhere

I still want something polished and put-together, but I also prefer the comfort of my favorite sneakers

With its black and white striped top, flowing red skirt, and decorative waist bow, it combines playful charm with typical 1950s elegance

London: Harper Collins Publishers