As you can tell by the various brands I wear, from affordable, mid-range, to designer, it isn’t about the brand or the label, it’s about how you inject personal style into the garment. While I can justify investing in designer clothing and accessories on occasion, I’m a huge fan of affordable fashion, because it’s (almost) all inclusive, accessible to the vast majority of the public.

When Kmart approached me to style looks from their Fall collection, I jumped at the opportunity, because one of my favorite things to do is prove that any garment can appear more expensive than it is, with a few elevating style tricks. Not only does Kmart understand consumers want amazing options at affordable prices, but they take pride in carrying brands that offer a range of sizes and versatility, offering clothing for every aspect of one’s lifestyle, from work wear to weekend, date night and even special occasion.

For the first look, I chose an animal printed fit and flare dress– on trend for Fall, great mid-weight stretch fabric and flattering on all body types. To elevate the look and make it more office appropriate, I added a belt and layered a ¾ sleeve blouse underneath, letting the collar peek through the neckline, adding my fave oversized tote and classic nude pumps. (If the weather was cooler or the office environment was more conservative, I’d add opaque black tights and swap the nude pumps for black).

For the second look, I went a bit edgy for a night out, choosing a faux leather moto jacket with knit sleeves and a built-in belted waistline.  Moto jackets aren’t typically soft or girly, so the knit sleeves and belted waistline gave it the feminine appeal I always look for in edgier pieces. The knit sleeve also lends itself nicely to the pushed up sleeve trick stylists use to elevate an ensemble, along with the mix of textures, making it appear more expensive. Underneath, the comfy two-tone longline sweater is a great, flattering length, concealing thighs and hips. Paired with an ultra stretchy skinny pant, this look screams casual luxe. I prefer pumps for a night out, but pointed toe flats or booties would look just as amazing.

Thanks to Kmart Fashion for sponsoring this post. All opinions (and styling tips!) are my own.

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Look 1 | JACLYN SMITH dress (true to size, wearing XL), similar blouse, similar belt, similar tote bag, similar pumps

Look 2 | JACLYN SMITH belted moto jacket (true to size, wearing XL), BONGO tunic sweater (true to size, wearing 1X), BONGO skinny pants (true to size, wearing 1X), similar pumps