Fashion Extremes: Celebrate Your Unique Style

The Look: Not-So-Basic Black

Camille Rankine, 28

Rankine, named an emerging talent by American Poet magazine last fall, is the program coordinator for the Cave Canem Foundation, a national nonprofit devoted to developing African-American poets. Like the hats she favors, her personal taste is edgy, "not flowery"—a perfect match for a dress draped with printed tulle and organza. "This is something I would wear to a special event, or with boots on the weekend," Rankine says. "It's complex in how it's put together—pretty, in a less obvious way."

Dress, Willow, $995.

More Spring Fashion

• 6 ways to find a style that sets you apart
• 10 items that will always be in style
• A trenchcoat you can wear 3 ways