How to Dress for a Night Out in Boston

If you are heading out for a night on the town in Boston, take a style lesson from all of the college students, professors and yuppies who live there. Since Bostonians are known for their classic, polished style, you can achieve a similar effect with high-quality, well-tailored clothes and feel right at home wherever you go.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Black pants
• Designer jeans
• Velvet blazer
• Jewel tone top
• Short skirt
• Sleeveless dress
• Knee-high boots
• Pumps

1. Select classic trousers in a rich brown or black and pair it with a cashmere tank top or cardigan set or a long silk blouse with a classy animal print and brown boots. Add a little flair with long gold chains and bangle bracelets.
2. Make a black velvet or wool cocktail dress work for a nice, but casual, dinner date by pairing it with a cropped herringbone blazer or shrunken cardigan. Or, wear a long sweater open over it to change the look. Go for knee-high boots or flats instead of heels if you plan to be walking around a lot.
3. Pick a flowered summer dress in a conservative cut and make it appropriate for the evening by adding a long strand of pearls, a solid crocheted shawl or a neutral-colored wrapped sweater and pumps or sandals.
4. Select a top in a jewel tone to offset a dark skirt or pair of pants. This is a great way to distinguish yourself in a classy way without going out on a limb with your taste.
5. Understand that well-cut jeans can work for evening when paired with a velvet or linen blazer and silk T-shirt or blouse.

Tips & Warnings

• Realize that fit matters in Boston. Invest in classic clothes that are well-made.
• Incorporate more trendy, or less expensive, items in small doses with high-quality basics.
• Avoid being stereotypical. While Boston is known for its preppy style, you don't want to overdo it by pairing too many preppy items in one outfit. Find your own mix of classic and modern pieces and step out in high style.