One Skirt, Two Stories: Styling the Chelsea and Violet Tulle Midi

Some outfits feel like a mood all on their own. This skirt is one of them.

The Chelsea and Violet Asta Tulle Midi Skirt in Mulberry from Dillard’s has been living rent free in my mind since the moment I saw it. It has this beautiful movement that makes you want to twirl without thinking twice. The layers of tulle add texture and depth, and the rich mulberry color feels warm, grounded, and a little bit bold in the best way. It is the kind of foundational piece that can shift with you depending on how you want to show up.

Last week, I styled it two ways. Same skirt. Same blazer. Same day. Just a different kind of energy with each look.

The skirt itself is easy to wear. It is a pull-on design with an elastic waistband and a soft swish with every step. It falls at about 30.5 inches, right at that sweet spot where it feels feminine without being fussy. I paired it with a classic black cropped blazer from Dillard’s and layered the softest Quince Washable Stretch Silk Sleeveless Blouse in Wine underneath(currently sold out). The color blended seamlessly with the mulberry tulle and added a subtle sheen that elevated everything without trying too hard.

At the waist, I added one of my favorite accessories: a double belt design with black leather and gold buckle details. It pulled the look together and added just enough structure to balance the softness of the skirt.

From there, it came down to one choice. Boots or sneakers.

Look One: The Tall Boots

The first look started with my Vince Camuto tall boots in Dark Mahogany. They have a pointed toe and a rich tone that complements the mulberry color beautifully. I bought these boots from Nordstrom, and although they are sold out now, they still feel like a go-to classic for days when I want to feel refined but still comfortable.

The boots give the outfit an elegant silhouette. A little more “dinner downtown” and a little less “creative studio day.” The pointed toe adds length to the look, and the height of the boot keeps everything feeling intentional and pulled together. This version of the outfit feels confident and polished. It is the kind of look you wear when you want to take up space with a quiet kind of presence.

Look Two: The Sparkly Sneakers

Then there is the second version. Same skirt. Same blazer. Completely different vibe.

I swapped the boots for my Gianni Bini Re-Vival Rhinestone Embellished Lace Platform Oxfords from Dillard’s. These are the kind of shoes you put on when you want to have fun with your outfit. They are sparkly in a way that feels playful rather than loud. The rhinestone embellishments catch the light just enough, and the platform sole gives them an unexpected edge.

These shoes are sold out now, but the style is unforgettable. They turned the tulle skirt into something more relaxed and creative. A little quirky. A little artistic. A little “I am here to work, play, brainstorm, and move through my day with ease.” The sneakers make the whole look feel modern and grounded, while still giving a nod to personal expression.

Why Both Work

Personal style has never been about choosing between dressy or casual. It is about choosing how you want to feel.

The boots made me feel classic and intentional.The sneakers made me feel creative and energized.

Both are true to who I am. Both tell a different story. Both invite a different version of confidence.

That is what I love most about building outfits with pieces that have range. You can shift a look with one simple choice and create something entirely new without changing the foundation.

How I Am Wearing It Next

This skirt will be on repeat for fall and winter. I can already see it paired with soft sweaters, graphic tees, structured blazers, and simple flats. Pieces like this let you stretch your creativity without overthinking it. They meet you where you are.

And as someone who loves reimagining outfits and making the most of my wardrobe, this skirt fits perfectly into my style philosophy. Versatility, comfort, confidence, and a touch of personal expression.

Why This Outfit Matters to Me

I wore this outfit for my breakout session at the 2025 Saluki Women’s Weekend conference, where I led my signature personal branding workshop, Your Name is Your Brand. I received so many compliments from the women there, and it reminded me why I love this work. Their encouragement helped me buckle down and finally start this blog that I have dreamed about for years, especially since I spend so much of my career helping others build and share their stories.

Photos by Mallory Minor at EthOs in Marion, Illinois.