TWO-TONED DRESS: Staud  |  ANKLE STRAP SANDALS:  old, similar HERE  |  EARRINGS: old, similar HERE  |  HANDBAG: Gucci (old; similar HERE)

If we’re amassing a list of long-dead fashion “rules,” the combination of pink and red as a fashion “don’t” is near the top of that list (perhaps right behind the”no white after Labor Day” rule).  This color combination has been all over the fashion set for months, and I can’t get enough.  I wore this color-blocked Staud dress last weekend and while I love the pairing of red and pink in all forms, this particular combination of red and blush pink has me in full swoon.  Since the color combo can be intimidating, I put together six favorite ways to wear red and blush whether you’re off to a casual dinner with girlfriends or prepping for a busy day at the office…

DINNER WITH GIRLFRIENDS

This bell-sleeve top is made by the same designer as my dress, and I can see it paired as easily with jeans for casual cool dinner with girlfriends as it can be dressed up with a pencil skirt for day at the office.  Also, get ready to see cranberry red bags EVERYWHERE this fall. I’ve got this stunner in my shopping cart.

DATE NIGHT

This look is also comprised of super versatile (and affordable!) favorites.  This pink Topshop skirt would work in or out of the office, and this red top with shoulder cut-outs is the perfect dressy-but-not-too-dressy top that you’ll wear everywhere this fall.  I find it to be a particularly nice top for dates because it shows a little skin without trying too hard.  Also, how amazing does leopard print look with this color combo?!

SUNDAY BRUNCH

Gingham AND my favorite color combo?  Hold on a second while my head explodes.  Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James line has been killing it lately and this perfect maxi dress is no exception.  With a jean jacket, you’ll be wearing this beauty through October.

WORKWEEK

Speaking of new-ish lines that are kiiiilling it, Alexa Chung is bringing the heat with these super cool striped wide leg pants.  Best part?  They come with a matching BLAZER.  I just ordered both, so stay tuned for the stripe party that will ensue the second I open the box.

BRIDAL SHOWER

I could see this look at a bridal shower, a baby shower, a dressy luncheon, a night at a broadway show… so many possibilities!  I mean, how dreamy is this top?!

CASUAL FRIDAY

All I have to say is I. Need. This. CARDIGAN.  Dressed up with a midi skirt or paired with your favorite skinny jeans for a casual day at the office, the color and style are just dynamite.  One of those super casual, comfy pieces that’s so wearable yet packs such a stylish punch.

TWO-TONED DRESS: Staud  |  ANKLE STRAP SANDALS:  old, similar HERE  |  EARRINGS: old, similar HERE  |  HANDBAG: Gucci (old; similar HERE)