Fashionable Hoboken: How To Use One Item For Multiple Occasions

 If you've ever bought pieces of clothing from a store because you had to have them, raise your hand. If you're guilty of wearing some of those pieces only once, keep your hand up.

Most of us are guilty of neglecting parts of our wardrobes, but with this economy, who can afford it? Two boutiques on Washington Street showed Patch how you can reuse one classic, staple piece into creating different looks for different occasions.

Jessie James on Washington has been in business for more than four years, and is owned by nine-year Hoboken resident Jessica Caulfield.

"We needed other options in the town," said Caulfield, who opened up shop because she noticed that variation in style and pricing was not being represented.

This posh boutique carries a collection of both edgy and class looking fashion.

One of the most notable pieces in the boutique is a silk, T-back top with exposed zipper by Riley.

"It's basic, but because it's silk, it's dressy," said Caulfield. Caulfield picked out three different ways to wear the top at different occasions. 

The Weekend Look: Pairing the silk top with leather shorts by BB Dakota creates a casual appearance perfect for running errands and looking polished.

"Leather is a huge trend," said Caulfield. "And it's season-less," she added, mentioning how leather lovers can carry their favorite pieces over from winter to spring.

The Office Look: Since leggings are also a huge trend right now, it's no surprise this loose top is a great match with form fitting pants. Elizabeth & James sturdy fabric black leggings are comfortable for work and you can still look pulled together.

"Slip boots on and no one would know the difference between them and slacks," said Caulfield.

The Night look: A black skirt is always a hot choice to wear. A black skirt by Gustuz with studs- even hotter. Paired with a matching chunky necklace- hottest.

"Statement jewelry really brings this outfit to night," said Caulfield.

Down the street, Dor L'Dor has had it's doors open for a year and half, and offers comfortable and stylish clothes at affordable prices.

"Everyone loves to shop [in Hoboken]," said manager Min Kim. "It's a little Manhattan. Very trendy." 

A single strap Olive Olivia black cotton dress from this boutique is easy to mix and match with to create unique looks.

"It's very simple," said employee Anna Rizzo. "You can have a lot of fun with jewelry, scarves and other accessories." 

The Weekend Look: A comfortable cardigan, such as the stores green one from Active, matched with a About Color beaded belt makes this classic dress a fun and trendy aternative to jeans and tee for relaxing.

"You don't have to think about or fuss with your outfit," said Rizzo.  "But you still look good." 

The Office Look: A pink jacket with soft details from Luluvia parallels the flowing dress, and is a sophisticated and stylish outfit for the working gal.

"Blazers make everything corporate," said Rizzo. "It's not as revealing ... and it's smart, sharp and simple."

The Night look: A Guess leather jacket matched with Lush metallic leggings is a fun and fashion forward way to get someone's attention. Matching statement jewelry from About Color is a perfect finishing touch.

"The leggings are going to catch someone's eye," said Rizzo. "Which is exactly what you're trying to do when you go out to meet people." 

So instead of buying clothes that will live in your closet, visit either one of these shops for pieces you'll never want to put away.