Contributed by Info Guru Aurora LaJambre

Pop stars score magazine covers and media attention by dressing on the vulgar side of flashy.

Well, many of us prefer to dress a little less “Look I’m almost naked” and a little more…refined. Don’t think we’re referring to high necks and covered ankles. Modern elegance is the farthest thing from boring.

These top ways to dress tastefully are chic, sexy and surprising.

10. Give structure a chance

When you’re looking for the kind of versatile dress that works for both professional events and date nights, a design with structure is a blessing. Notice how perfectly the easy-moving skirt above compliments the tailored top, accentuating lace details while the belted waist gives form to the overall silhouette. You can’t go wrong in this kind of thoughtful design.

9. Work the textures

Pairing the right textures creates harmony in an outfit, allowing the showier piece to stand out as the more subtle materials sing background. For example, a sleek leather jacket with a chunky knit scarf and fitted jeans flatters any shape while keeping you warm and well put together.

8. Tailored Shoes

Tailored shoes are a tricky thing to shop for if you’re not accustomed to wearing them because they will feel more structured and “tighter” than your sneaks or flip flops. To buy tasteful shoes, choose a made-to-fit tailored style. Keep the colors classic – no bright hues or excess sparkle – and accent features minimal. For an all purpose year-round professional ensemble, women should stick with a mid-height heel and men should look for a lace-up or understated loafer.

7. Off-the-shoulder

Tried and true ways to dress tastefully can still leave room for sexy, too. When it comes to bearing a little skin, off-the-shoulder tops are a perfect choice. Worn with dressy pants or casual jeans, this refined look is a subtle way to turn things up a notch.

6. Know when to play

Patterns add swagger to an otherwise hum drum style, especially when worn with fitted black pants. A button-down blouse combines a playful pattern with a classy peacoat fit.

5. Modest mid-length

Below-the-knee pencil skirts place the focus on your form not bare skin. At the same time, they’re comfortable to wear all day and ideal for professional environments. This modest style exudes confidence.

4. Pretty in pants

Versatile pants are a staple of any beautiful wardrobe and one of the easiest ways to dress tastefully. Pants made from stretch fabric with gently tapered legs and creases have the feel of pants you wear around the house, but a look appropriate for an office or nice event. Opt for smooth, flat fronts over pleats for a more flattering silhouette.

3. Cheerful trench coats

Just because the weather outside sends you reaching for the trench coat doesn’t mean you have to transform into a puffy marshmallow. A boldly colored trench coat will strike down gloomy weather and winter blues like a breath of fresh air. Double-breasted, belt and notch collar detailing gives a charming wink to this iconic design.

2. Modern in mesh

If you still think of athletic wear when you hear mesh, check out the dresses with hi-low hems. With a little peek-a-boo of skin at the legs and arms, the overall effect is lacey up top and fringy at the bottom. Modern mesh is simply stunning paired with neutral boots and a solid slip.

1. Not-too-short shorts

Put a classy and comfortable spin on summer shorts. Women have endless options when it comes to shorts, but sometimes the cut leaves a little too much leg – or more – hanging out, especially when you are active. Classic shorts cut a bit longer are both more classy and easier to transition from day to evening. Throw on a blouse and a pair of heels, and longer cut shorts are an casually elegant outfit perfect for summer dining al fresco.