Planning some DIY International Womens Day Outfits can be a fun way to express solidarity and personal style. These looks work for marches, casual meetups, office awareness days, or an evening event — all with pieces you can personalize at home.
I picked ideas that are easy to make or tweak: painting, embroidery, patching, or simple sewing.
Each suggestion mentions fabrics, color notes (purple accents where it fits), and small adjustments so the look flatters different shapes and feels intentional rather than last-minute.
Embroidered Tee with Midi Skirt
A soft cotton tee decorated with hand-stitched motifs pairs effortlessly with a flowy linen midi skirt for a relaxed but thoughtful look. Choose purple thread for small embroidered symbols along the pocket or hem to echo International Womens Day colors, and pick a skirt in neutral beige or olive to keep the focus on the stitching. Cotton and linen breathe well for long days, and embroidery adds texture without bulk. This combo flatters pear and rectangle shapes because the skirt skims hips while the tee can be knotted or tucked for waist definition.
How to Style This Look
- Knot the tee at the side to create a subtle waistline
- Add simple gold hoops and low block sandals for balance
- Carry a crossbody in contrasting color to break neutrals
Tailored Blazer and Slouchy Jeans
An oversized tailored blazer layered over a simple tank and slouchy high-rise jeans creates a smart-casual balance that suits civic events or office gatherings. A blazer in wool-blend or structured cotton gives form, while distressed or soft denim keeps the mood approachable. Choose a deep purple pin or a sewn-on ribbon inside the lapel for a DIY nod to the day. This pairing works well on apple and rectangle shapes: the blazer adds shoulder structure and a longer torso length can be flattering when the blazer is slightly oversized.
How to Style This Look
- Roll the sleeves of the blazer for a relaxed feel
- Add loafers or low ankle boots to anchor proportions
- Tuck the front of the tank to define the waist subtly
Bold Graphic Tee with Skirt
Create a statement by screen-printing or fabric-painting a bold graphic or empowering line onto a heavyweight cotton tee and pairing it with a pleated A-line skirt. A tee in white or black works best for contrast; consider purple or metallic paint for the graphic to tie to the theme. A pleated skirt in polyester blend or cotton poplin keeps movement light and creates a feminine silhouette. This combo suits hourglass and pear shapes if the skirt sits at the natural waist, and the structured pleats skim hips without clinging.
How to Style This Look
- Use freezer paper stencils to get clean painted graphics
- Add a slim belt at the waist for added definition
- Finish with ankle-strap flats or clean white sneakers
Tailored Suit with Ribbon Accessory
A DIY ribbon accessory pinned to a classic tailored suit makes a refined statement without changing the suit’s form. Choose a wool-blend blazer and tapered slacks in navy or charcoal, then craft a ribbon brooch using satin in purple tones and a small decorative button to secure it. Suits in breathable blends work for long days; tailoring the hem and sleeve length gives a polished feel. This look flatters taller frames as well as petite shapes when sleeves and trousers are proportioned correctly, and the ribbon introduces color without overpowering the silhouette.
How to Style This Look
- Place the ribbon brooch on the lapel or just above the pocket
- Wear a crisp cotton shirt and slender loafers for cleaner lines
- Keep jewelry minimal—thin chain necklace or studs
Layered Knit Vest and Shirt
Layer a cable-knit vest over a crisp cotton button-down for a comfortable, preppy look that can be personalized easily. Choose a vest in merino or cotton blend and add painted or embroidered initials along the neckline or hem in purple. A cotton poplin shirt underneath keeps structure and warmth balanced. Tuck the shirt into tailored trousers or wide-leg jeans to emphasize the waist. This wearable layering suits most body types because the shirt provides structure while the vest adds a cozy focal point without adding unnecessary volume.
How to Style This Look
- Leave the shirt cuffs peeking under the vest for contrast
- Add a slim leather belt and loafers for polish
- Swap trousers for a midi skirt to soften the look
Satin Slip Dress with Jacket
A bias-cut satin slip dress paired with a cropped denim or tailored jacket blends elegance and casual ease — ideal for evening recognition events or daytime gatherings. Satin in jewel tones like deep purple or plum reads festive and feels fluid on the body. A light denim jacket tempers formality and adds an approachable layer. For those who prefer coverage, layer a thin cotton tee underneath the slip. This pairing flatters pear and hourglass figures when the jacket ends near the hip, creating balanced proportions.
How to Style This Look
- Add a small shoulder bag and low block heels for evening wear
- For daytime, swap heels for white sneakers and keep jewelry minimal
- Consider a lightweight scarf knotted at the neck for extra detail
Patchwork Denim Overalls Outfit
Repurpose an old pair of jeans into patchwork denim overalls for a playful, hands-on approach to the day. Mix denim washes and add purple fabric patches or embroidered motifs to reflect the theme. Wear a soft long-sleeve cotton tee or thin knit underneath for warmth and comfort. Denim is sturdy for busy days and the patchwork adds color and texture while keeping the look casual. Overalls are forgiving on many silhouettes; adjust strap length and side seams to fit hips and torso proportionately for best comfort.
How to Style This Look
- Add purple fabric paint accents along seams for cohesion
- Pair with canvas sneakers and a canvas tote for a casual vibe
- Roll cuff hems to show ankle and create balance
Pleated Skirt with Statement Sash
A faux-sash made from satin or grosgrain ribbon worn over a simple blouse and pleated skirt reads both celebratory and intentional. Choose a pleated skirt in lightweight polyester or viscose, and knot or sew a sash in purple tones across the waist or shoulder for a sash-like effect. The sash can be detachable for comfort. This combination flatters hourglass and pear shapes when the skirt hits below the knee and the sash sits at the smallest part of the waist, creating an elongated silhouette while keeping movement feminine and airy.
How to Style This Look
- Secure the sash with a discreet stitch so it stays put during movement
- Match shoe color to sash for a cohesive look
- Add small stud earrings and a slim bracelet for subtle polish
Layered Floral Dress and Sweater
Layer a lightweight sweater over a floral cotton or rayon dress for a cozy, feminine look that can be customized with a sewn-on patch or painted motif in purple. Switch a heavy knit for a thin merino blend to avoid bulk and preserve the dress’s shape. This layered approach works well for transitional weather and allows for easy mobility during events. The sweater over the dress shortens the torso visually, which can be helpful for petite frames; pairing with ankle boots helps elongate the legs.
How to Style This Look
- Tuck the sweater at the front to reveal the dress’s waistline
- Wear mid-calf boots to balance proportions
- Add a handmade fabric pin to the sweater for a personal detail
Monochrome Purple Coord Set
Create a coordinated set by dyeing or finding matching top and bottoms in shades of purple for a unified, intentional appearance. A cotton-linen blend works well for warmer days; choose a cropped shirt and high-waisted trousers or a boxy top with a pencil skirt in complementary purple tones. The monochrome approach lengthens the silhouette and reads cohesive, while subtle differences in fabric sheen add interest. This set flatters rectangular shapes by creating visual continuity, and a belt can introduce definition if desired.
How to Style This Look
- Mix matte and satin fabrics for tonal depth
- Add a thin neutral belt to highlight the waist if needed
- Keep jewelry minimal—a pair of small hoops or a single bracelet
DIY Painted Denim Jacket
Take a classic denim jacket and hand-paint symbolic motifs, phrases, or floral elements in purple and white acrylic paint sealed with textile medium. Use a medium-weight denim for the best surface; lighter washes show paint vibrantly. The jacket becomes a wearable banner without sacrificing everyday wearability. Pair it with a simple knit dress or black jeans to let the jacket shine. Boxy jackets can suit broader shoulders if the sleeves are tapered slightly, while those with narrower frames can add a slim belt underneath to keep proportions balanced.
How to Style This Look
- Use small brushes and stencils for controlled painted details
- Wear over monochrome basics so the jacket stands out
- Seal paint with a fabric fixative to prevent cracking
Wide-Leg Pants and Cropped Tee
Pair high-waisted wide-leg trousers in linen or lightweight wool with a cropped cotton tee featuring a sewn-on patch or small embroidered emblem. The high waist visually lengthens the legs while the wide cut brings a relaxed sophistication. Choose trousers in neutrals like sand or black and add a purple patch on the tee to tie into the theme. This silhouette suits taller and pear-shaped bodies when the cropped tee hits just at or above the natural waist, and the trousers skim hips without clinging.
How to Style This Look
- Wear platform sandals or low heels to balance the wide-leg silhouette
- Add a woven belt to define the waist if desired
- Keep accessories minimal to maintain clean lines
Statement Scarf and Simple Dress
A lightweight cotton or silk scarf painted with hand-dyed accents can be styled over a simple shift dress for an elevated, handcrafted touch. Use purple dyes or fabric markers to add subtle motifs, then tie the scarf around the neck, as a belt, or on the bag for versatility. A shift dress in stretch cotton or ponte knit maintains comfort and shape. This look is friendly for apple and rectangle shapes because the straight dress creates a clean line while the scarf introduces a focal point that draws the eye upward.
How to Style This Look
- Tie the scarf in a loose knot near the collarbone for softness
- Use the scarf as a belt to create waist definition if desired
- Match the scarf’s secondary color with shoes or a clutch
Cropped Cardigan and Highwaist Shorts
A cropped cardigan in a soft mohair blend worn over a tucked-in cotton tee and high-waisted tailored shorts offers a modern, approachable silhouette. Add a small embroidered patch on the cardigan cuff or near the hem in purple tones to echo the day. Mohair or brushed wool adds warmth and a delicate halo, while cotton shorts keep the outfit grounded. This combination suits petite frames well because the cropped length visually raises the waist, creating the illusion of longer legs when paired with mid-height shoes.
How to Style This Look
- Choose mid-height boots or sandals to maintain proportional balance
- Add a tiny brooch near the shoulder for an extra accent
- Keep socks neutral or match them to the cardigan for cohesion
Pleated Culottes with Belted Top
Pleated culottes in a lightweight viscose paired with a belted knit top create a modern silhouette that allows movement and breathability. Pick culottes in neutral tones and craft a contrasting belt or sash in purple to tie into the theme. Viscose drapes beautifully and holds pleats well, while a rib-knit top adds texture and structure. This outfit is forgiving for apple and pear shapes when the top’s belt sits at the smallest part of the waist, and the culottes skim the thighs without clinging.
How to Style This Look
- Select a belt width that complements your torso length
- Wear heeled mules to elongate the legs visually
- Keep jewelry simple—a slender watch or delicate rings
Layered Mesh Top and Slip Skirt
Combine a sheer mesh top layered over a fitted camisole with a bias-cut slip skirt for an airy, contemporary look. Choose mesh in a neutral shade and pick a camisole in purple or with a small handmade applique to nod to the day. Satin or charmeuse skirts move elegantly and feel luxe without heavy structure. This silhouette highlights the shoulders and hips and works on rectangle and hourglass bodies; the mesh adds coverage while allowing the camisole color to peek through and create contrast.
How to Style This Look
- Layer with a thin camisole that complements skirt color
- Add minimalist heels or strappy flats to keep lines clean
- Wear a small clutch to maintain the outfit’s delicate vibe
Tailored Culotte Suit Combo
Pair a tailored culotte and matching cropped blazer in a lightweight suiting fabric for a modern, slightly androgynous approach. Add a detachable purple lapel ribbon or a sewn-on pocket square to personalize the set. Lightweight wool blends or rayon-silk blends keep movement smooth. This look can be flattering on pear and rectangle shapes when the blazer hits at the hip and the culottes sit at the natural waist, creating a balanced proportion between upper and lower body while keeping a clean, tailored look for formal settings.
How to Style This Look
- Wear a sleek low heel or block heel to maintain tailored lines
- Choose a fitted top underneath to avoid bulk under the blazer
- Keep accessories structured, like a small leather bag
Boho Maxi Dress with Hand Sewn Patch
A flowing cotton or rayon maxi dress with a hand-sewn patch near the hem or chest makes for a relaxed, handmade statement. Choose breathable fabrics with a soft drape and select patches in complementary purple prints or embroidery. The maxi’s length and movement feel celebratory and are comfortable for long walks or gatherings. This silhouette suits taller and hourglass shapes beautifully, and for shorter frames, consider a slight hem adjustment and paired shoes with a small heel to prevent the dress from overwhelming the figure.
How to Style This Look
- Sew the patch with matching thread for a subtle finish
- Wear sandals or woven mules for texture contrast
- Add a thin waist cord to create shape if preferred
High-Neck Lace Blouse and Trousers
A high-neck lace blouse paired with cropped tapered trousers feels refined and can be personalized with a small embroidered motif near the cuff or collar. Choose lace that is soft and lined with a silk or cotton layer to keep comfort high. Trousers in a stretch-wool blend offer structure while maintaining comfort for day-long wear. This outfit balances detail and simplicity; the lace adds delicacy that complements stronger tailoring in the trousers, making it suitable for formal gatherings and receptions where a thoughtful dress code is appreciated.
How to Style This Look
- Keep blouse lining neutral to avoid color clash
- Add pointed flats or low heels to elongate the leg line
- Choose small earrings to avoid competing with the neckline
Graphic Wrap Top and Pencil Skirt
A wrap-style top customized with hand-screened graphics or fabric paint pairs neatly with a structured pencil skirt for a confident, crafted look. Use cotton or modal for the top so it drapes and ties cleanly; choose a pencil skirt in ponte or stretch cotton for comfort and shape retention. A small painted emblem at the side of the wrap keeps the custom detail subtle. This outfit flatters hourglass and rectangle shapes by highlighting the waist and creating a smooth hip line with the skirt’s structure.
How to Style This Look
- Tie the wrap snugly at the natural waist for definition
- Coordinate shoe color with a painted element for cohesion
- Add a slim watch or cuff for a polished finish
Layered Shirt Dress and Belt
A shirt dress in crisp cotton layered with a contrasting belt and a small sewn emblem near the collar is a versatile, put-together option for daytime events. The structured cotton keeps lines clean, and a medium-width belt creates a defined waist that flatters many shapes. Choose a mid-length dress that skims the knee or falls below for comfortable movement. This outfit can be dressed up with heeled boots or down with loafers, and the sewn emblem offers a personal handcrafted touch without overwhelming the simplicity of the dress.
How to Style This Look
- Select a belt that complements the dress’s color and fabric
- Roll the sleeves slightly for a relaxed feel
- Wear simple leather flats or ankle boots to finish the look