1. Style

How To Toughen Up a Sweet Dress

From , former About.com Guide

How To Toughen Up a Sweet DressJason Merritt/Getty Images
Take a cue from the stylish Disney stars Ashley Tisdale and Vanessa Hudgens to toughen up even the most feminine frock.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: Minimal

Here's How:

  1. Strappy stilettos: Ashley and Vanessa both wear feisty strappy stilettos that add a refreshing hard edge to their feminine frocks. Instead of choosing matchy shoes, the sleek black patent looks chic with the bright colors of this glamorous duo's dresses.

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  2. Bold belts: Ashley cinches her sheath with a shiny patent black belt, breaking up the little blue dress and tying in the rest of her black accessories. A stunning belt can change the look of any dress, from the extremely fancy to the completely casual.

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  3. Layered jewelry: Vanessa piles on two necklaces of varying lengths, a stack of bracelets in different metals, and an organically glam cocktail ring. The hippie chic gold jewelry shines against such a sweet pastel dress.

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  4. Shoulder purses: The casual toss-over-the-shoulder purse is far less precious than a itty-bitty clutch, not to mention far more convenient for toting around your night out necessities. Ashley's vintage black carryall is longer than her dress, creating a quirky silhouette.

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  5. Bedhead hair: The fastest way to make a fancy less acceptable for everyday wear? Leave the updos for the red carpet and let your locks air dry. Ashley's natural waves and Vanessa's mod bangs are a refreshing departure from high-maintenance hairstyles.

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What You Need

  • strappy stilettos
  • bold belt
  • layered jewelry
  • shoulder purse
  • bedhead

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