Lately my outfits have been the same staple pieces on rotation with just small tweaks in accessories. The heavy hitters have been my favorite distressed jeans, white jeans (next on my must-find list are white pants or trousers, to convert the same pairings into business casual outfits), striped and gingham shirts, chambray shirts, and neutral shoes in flat, sandal, and pump form. I noticed I get more compliments on the most basic pairings, probably because anyone can find a variation of those pieces to create their own spin on the look. Speaking of favorite jeans, there is a good sale on designer denim going on with up to 30% off popular current-season styles…see the bottom of my post for details!
This shirt is from Nordstrom’s petites department and will be making many more appearances on here. I’m packing for upcoming trips to a few different destinations, but for each one a comfortable, versatile travel shirt is a must. This one is softer than most denim button-ups, and is medium in weight with a sturdy feel. I have not yet laundered it (tag says machine washable) but several online reviewers mentioned how well it wears and washes. For that easy casual look, I love double cuffing the sleeves…it’s pretty self-explanatory but here are the steps:
Measurements of xxs petite: 16.5″ across armpits, 14″ across shoulders, 23″ long sleeves.
Out of the 10 colors, I got the “light blue” which is a lighter chambray with a weathered, gently broken-in wash that I look for in premium denim. In my opinion, better looking in-person and not as bright as the sky blue color in both the online stock photo and my photos here. I first took note of this shirt in store, and had to double check the item number before ordering online as I thought the color looked so different. The fit of a petite xxs on me is a casual, blousy fit. I am also very particular about sleeve width and might slim these down a little bit like I did with my Converse chambray shirt. Thank you to Nordstrom for sponsoring the wear-to-work section of today’s post!
As an update from my Shopbop sunglasses order, my keepers were these Ray-Ban original aviators and possibly the special fit Karen Walkers (will try to take a photo soon). I’ve been living under a rock all this time and didn’t realize how easily adjustable Ray-Ban aviators are! When I first put them on, they fell right down my nose and I almost packaged them right back up for a return. However, inspired by some helpful comments in my previous posts, I watched a few YouTube videos and realized the nose pads can easily be adjusted at home!To do so, use a firm grip with your fingers and slowly bend the metal part attaching the nose pads, careful not to bend too abruptly and risk snapping the metal. I moved both pads inward towards the center a bit, so that the nose opening was more narrow. Now they sit perfectly on my nose bridge without the lens pressing down on my upper cheeks. I got mine for 25% off and just realized that as of Monday, Saks has them for 30% off and Nordstrom will price adjust either before or after you order, if the exact style and color is on sale elsewhere.
As of today, it also looks like several Rag & Bone jeans styles are automatically 30% off to match Saks’ friends & family sale. When sale prices are the same, I usually prefer to buy from Nordstrom for their free easy returns label in case the item doesn’t work out, also if you need size 23 there’s usually more available there. This is the best discount I’ve seen yet for current-season R&B; styles!
– Left: My favorite pair (“La Paz” wash) as of late that comes in a slightly shorter 29″ inseam – see on me in size 24. These are so comfortable and don’t lose their shape with wear nor stretch out (like at the knees, after sitting for a long time)
– Middle + right: Rag & Bone dark washes “Kensington” and “Woodford,” both in the same 98% cotton, 2% polyurethane blend material and “The Skinny” cut as the pair I own. It’s hard to gauge washes online so I always Google the wash name and peruse the different photos out there.
Hi Em – I think each person just needs to develop a schedule that works for them, and with a full time job that just means the schedule can sometimes be tossed out the window and you just need to re-prioritize. If you love the hobby enough then you will find time for it by whittling down any wasted time spent elsewhere. To answer your question, I work about 60 hours a week at my job and also work with my fiance/photographer's work schedule – we are able to fit in blogging both before and after our work obligations, by photoshooting early in the mornings and writing post content late at night.
Thank you for the tip! Very cute find : )
Hi! I've mentioned him several times before… I go to a kind man in Chinatown on Knapp St. He doesn't have a store name that I know of and only speaks Cantonese. He is located across from the grocery store on that alley/street, and you can see his sewing machine through the big window. His hours are supposed to be 10AM-5PM, but he tends to work on his own hours and sometimes closes up earlier FYI
Yes, this year I transitioned from my former role to being on the startup team of a new shoe brand, M.Gemi! It's less conservative, however I still rotate in almost all of my work pieces from before, especially for meetings.
It's Mansur Gavirel! I think they are all sold out now unfortunately.
Hi Geri! Usually I only do the collar up if the material of the shirt is very stiff and prone to holding that shape. I don't iron it. Usually I prefer to wear it down, layered under a crew or V neck top so the collar just peeks out over the neckline. Have fun experimenting!
Hi leah – sorry, that's completely out of my realm of expertise : )
Hi there – I've never seen a coupon code for Tieks. I got them as a gift and they needed no breaking in at all, and the leather is very soft around the toes. However, because they are fold-able, the bottoms are flat without support for the arch of your foot, so I wouldn't recommend for long hours of walking.
It's one of their signature styles, so I sure hope they do restock! Also, you can check Sole Society's own website for restocks as well.
Will not be keeping the pink mesh sweater because the linen one is similar and the fit is much more versatile. I'm undecided about the striped popover…your thoughts?
Hi there – thank you! I really use a huge variety..from drugstore, to the ones my hairdresser suggests to me. I don't have a favorite. My hairdresser did tell me to use "clarifying" shampoo though for the most lightweight feel after washing my hair.
Hi there, I'd love to know of some good tailors as well. I live north of Boston if anyone has any recommendations. Thanks!
Hi Jean, I've searched your blog and you seem to have a great tailor but I haven't seen the name or location. Is that on purpose? Do you have any recommendations as a good tailor seems to be as hard to find as a good man 🙂 Thanks for any recommendations!
Hey Jean! I was on the lookout for a basic spring outerwear with a blazer's structure and a cardigan's comfort. I think I found it – saw this on my Deloitte coworker the other day: http://www.express.com/clothing/cropped+bead+embellished+french+terry+jacket/pro/8872194C/cat890004?question=8872194C&_requestid=3763736
And the plus – 100% cotton and machine washable!
Hi Jean, I'd love to hear about how you juggle a full time job and blogging at the same time! What does your weekly schedule look like, and how do you fit in blogging?
I'm just starting a new blog and would love your feedback: http://wandermust.co/
Love everything about this outfit. I really adore your shoes but unfortunately the nude pumps are all sold out online. Your lip color suits you really well btw, is that Mac charismatic? Have a nice weekend Jean 🙂
Hi Jean–where do you have your clothes altered/tailored in the Boston area? I have high end denim that needs to be hemmed. Thanks! -Jen
Love the leopard skirt and your lipstick color 🙂 do you mind sharing the lipstick color and brand? Thanks
Could you do a post on how to find flattering shorts? It would be so helpful!
I need help finding casual outfits too 🙂
I love the leopard mixed with chambray. Very cute and unusual spring look!
http://www.vanitysalad.com
Hi Jean, thanks so much for your great outfits and informative posts! Now that the weather is (finally, hopefully) getting warmer here in Massachusetts, would you consider doing some reviews and outfits for casual spring/summer basics, specifically non-sloppy t-shirts? Or a post on outfits similar to the AT sweater and jean shorts you posted on IG a few days ago? I'm a stay at home mom and looking for some simple, everyday style inspiration!
Beautiful outfit as always. I have noticed that your outfits have been much more casual recently, are you working in a less conservative environment now? Update us!!
Love this cuff tip!
Julia // Little Miss Haute Couture
This is a casual outfit. Not necessarily meant for the workplace.
The outfit is cute, but I dont think I could wear something like that to a professional services office..
Love this outfit! The casual shirt looks wonderful with the animal print skirt. Thanks for sharing!
Love the denim with this print 🙂 Casual and effortless!
xx, Mel
http://melinspired.com
Perfect combo! This skirt is amazing.
xxx
http://www.mybeautrip.com
I love how you worked the super casual chambray shirt into this business casual outfit! And really, thank you for the cuffing pictures, they really do help a lot!
Joyce
b-w-validation.com
Absolutely love this. Also, love the slight detail you do when cuffing your shirt! I think it's so cute to have the cuff showing. Brilliant!
Enclothed Cognition
Instagram
Hi Jean. I really like your tote, may I know where you got it from?
Hi Jean, I absolutely love your blog! I was searching your site to see if you've posted tips on how to style a collar. I've seen some of your photos with the collar up and I'm wondering if you iron it to make it stay that way. I love collared button ups but I never like the way it turns out looking especially when layering. I hope you have time to read this and comment. Thanks!
Great look! jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
ps…Thanks for showing the shirt sleeve cuff…definitely better than how I've been doing it!
I love how you put your outfits together! I love the tote especially, I've been trying to find something similar
hi jean do you have any recommendations for mens briefcase? thanks!
Dear Jeans, those Tieks flats that you wear in your IG . Are they comfy and worth it ? they are quite $$$. Wonder if you have any coupon code to share. Thanks Jeans
I love this skirt! You look great!
http://www.tailoredandtrue.wordpress.com
I love the shoes & immediately tried to order them, but they are sold out in a size 8. Yes, I am 5'2 with a big foot and a petite body. I signed up for the wait list. Do they usually restock? Does anyone know the answer to this? I love the style and heel height AND color!
Love this look!
Easy, Frugal Style
Love this semi-casual edgier look on you! Always need a good chambray shirt.. would love you see packing posts for your upcoming trips. Hope you will share!. 🙂
Love this! Thanks for sharing. On side note, did you end up keeping the pink mesh stitch sweater and the striped side zip top?
I love your skirt and your shoes, Jean
Cute look for work:P
Shall We Sasa
Ah and happy birthday! :))
Hi Jean, love you and your blog! 🙂
Can I ask you what shampoo/conditioner do you use? I have similar hair like yours and I can't settle in one brand. I am never happy how my hair feels after shower, so I am always jumping around between different products… TIA!
I really love the color of that shirt…I may have to go check it out!
Love the chambray shirt <3
XoXo One Stiletto At A Time
I never thought that a leo skirt can be look so relaxed and stylish – I love your outfit from head to toes! Now I'm only a bit sad that I can't buy this skirt as you have it obviously already since a longer time in your wardrobe 🙂 Happy Tuesday!
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
Love how the animal prints instantly add a touch of edge to the whole outfit look! Thanks for the inspiration.
Prudence
http://www.prudencepetitestyle.com