Maybe it’s because PBS has another historical hit drama on its hands with Victoria, but romantic, feminine dressing is very much on-trend this season (and will continue right into fall). That means flouncy ruffles, English floral prints, and literally anything that laces-up—from corsets to booties—is a go-to. To avoid looking like a miniseries extra, curb the urge to pair a pretty frock or blouse with equally pretty accessories; instead, style your ladylike pieces with something at the other end of the fashion spectrum for an unexpected look. Here’s our how-to guide:

A floral print, ruffled blouse like this one by La Vie Rebecca Taylor ($195) could easily work with your favorite boyfriend jeans. For more of a style mashup, give cargo pants a try with a studded stiletto sandal. A.line, 2445 E. 3rd Ave., 303-773-8200, aline-online.com

Prefer a top in a solid color? Go for one in this season’s most important blouse shade: White. While you’re at it, add some drama with a high collar—a favorite neckline of Victorian ladies. Rachel Roy’s cascading ruffle front blouse ($46.99) with band collar stays on-trend when paired with cropped bootcut black pants and a closed-toe mule. Macy’s, Cherry Creek Shopping Center, 15 S. Steele St., 303-390-2200, macys.com

Lace dresses are everywhere this season. What makes Giada Forte’s cotton-silk dress with lace insets ($795) a standout is its striking rust shade (a fresh change from basic black) and plunging V-neck. Wear it with a white wide-leg pant and a minimalist, block-heel sandal. Moxie, The Orchards, 5936 S. Holly St., 303-694-0773, moxieinstyle.com

La Vie Rebecca Taylor blouse, $195, A.Line
Rachel Roy ruffle blouse, $46.99, Macy’s
Giada Forte lace inset dress, $795, Moxie
La Bottega Di Lisa lace-up bootie, $467, Two Sole Sisters
Free People Alexandria Draped Lace Choker $38, Free People
La Vie Parisienne antique gold chandelier earrings, $92, Trunk Nouveau

Another signature of Victorian style is the lace-up bootie. This version by La Bottega Di Lisa in lilac ($467) is the perfect mate for a sporty mini dress. Two Sole Sisters, 1078 S. Gaylord St., 303-722-2887, twosolesisters.com

Turn-of-the-century ladies liked their jewelry, and a favorite of the era was the choker. This season, it’s a great way to style up something as basic as a classic tee. We like the Alexandria lace and chain combo by Free People ($38) for packing a big fashion punch without busting our wallets. Free People, freepeople.com

If Victorian women weren’t wearing chokers, then the jewelry they were sporting featured delicate, but elaborate designs. La Vie Parisienne updates the look with these antique gold chandelier earrings ($92, pictured above), showcasing graceful scrollwork and tiny pearl accents. Again, keep your look simple with these baubles and pair with a fitted T-shirt or tank. Trunk Nouveau at The Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St., 303-832-7073, trunknouveau.com