If you, like me, have Taylor Swift’s new album Midnights on repeat, maybe you’re also feeling inspired by the lyrics of her song Vigilante Shit: “I don’t dress for women; I don’t dress for men; lately I’ve been dressing for revenge.”
“Dressing for revenge” isn’t a new concept. In fact, Princess Diana was known for wearing a particular little black dress that was put in the ‘revenge dressing’ category back in 1994. But what falls in this category today? I’ve put together a list of a few pieces that are sure to be jaw-droppers (but tasteful! And not over-the-top sexy!) for the next time you step out for some vigilante nights of your own.
A Moto-Inspired Bodysuit
Love the look of leather, but not a fan of the real deal? This vegan leather corset bodysuit from Maniere de Voir ($55) is not only surprisingly affordable, but also has lots of edgy details that make this piece unforgettable. I was shocked at how comfortable this bodysuit is: it has the compression of athleticwear but with a high-fashion twist. This is my go-to when I want an outfit that’s sexy without showing a ton of skin (especially during colder months!).
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Vegan Leather Pants
Speaking of vegan leather…if you’ve got it on top, why not include it on the bottom, too? For years, I’ve been looking for a good pair of vegan leather pants that don’t look like a garbage bag and are actually comfortable. (Have you ever worn a pair of too-constrictive leather pants? It’s awful.) Then I found the 90s straight pants from Abercrombie ($110)…and everything changed. Not only do they hang well on the body, but they look like real leather. The best part: They’re lined with a soft fabric that’s warm and cozy! Comfortable and sleek? Yes, please.
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An Open-Back Top
I think there’s something to be said for subtlety when it comes to this idea of dressing for revenge. Of course black is the go-to color, but that doesn’t mean you have to be decked out in leather. Comfort is sexy, too! That’s why I’m a big fan of Beyond Yoga’s open-back pullover ($78.) This might look like your average black long-sleeve, but the open back with drawstring closure makes this piece form-fitting and just a little bit revealing. Plus, you can wear it out to dinner or the gym. Win-win.
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Black Leather Boots
There’s nothing like a good pair of black leather boots, is there? My favorite pair right now are the Hoven H2O boots from Dolce Vita ($170.) Not only do they give me a nice height boost, but they’re water-resistant and edgy with the thick lug sole. The best part? These boots are made using recycled materials and have a cozy sock upper that makes them super comfortable and warm.
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An Edgy Crop Top
This cropped sweatshirt from Alexander McQueen on italist ($670.12) has a cropped fit with a semi-transparent corset peeking out underneath and a slightly open back, which puts an interesting twist to the average crop top. The best part: italist is a direct-to-consumer option that allows you to get luxury designer pieces like this one at the Italian retail price, which equates to savings of 30-40% on average. In this case, it’s almost 50% off the MRSP.
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A Bodysuit With Metal Hardware
The Reyes bodysuit by Camila Coelho ($107) is made with an ultra-soft modal and has two bull ring accents that add an exciting twist to an average black top. I never would’ve thought I’d be one to go for metal hardware, but this open-front one is great without being too over-the-top with the cleavage exposure (especially for smaller-chested gals like me). Plus: It layers well!
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A One-Shoulder Top
This bandage-style one-shoulder top from superdown ($64) is an asymmetrical dream. I love the cutouts and form-fitting black fabric that make this piece versatile enough to wear with jeans or a skirt. Again, these cutouts won’t leave you feeling overexposed but are enough to achieve that elusive ‘cool girl’ effect.
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A Mini Skirt
You can never go wrong with a good black mini skirt, can you? It’s sort of classic for this type of look. I’m loving the Lovers and Friends Merci velvet mini skirt ($138) with a notched hem and ruching at the waist. I pair it with a good pair of knee-high boots and fleece-lined tights and instantly feel invincible.
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A Velvet Dress
Speaking of velvet…have you seen the Nyla midi dress ($178) from Reformation? Breaking from the all-things-black theme here, the emerald green of this ultra-flattering dress is truly jaw-dropping. With a front slit, adjustable halter neck, and open back, this dress takes revenge dressing to a whole new level.
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Mostly, Dress For Yourself
I want to close out this piece with a thought from stylist Lauren Caruso: “I generally don't love the idea of dressing for revenge or retribution,” she said, “instead of doing anything with someone else in mind, dress in whatever makes you feel great.” With that in mind, hopefully the pieces here have provided some inspiration for outfits that make you feel strong, sexy, and empowered.