H&M; blazer (similar in petites), Manolo Blahnik pumps sz 35, Ray-Ban sunglasses
With the start of a new season, I’ve gotten several requests to share more workwear ideas! I work in a coworking space downtown, and while it isn’t the corporate environments I used to be in, it still allows me to make the most of my favorite professional pieces. I also have the occasional need to dress business formal for public speaking or volunteer events, so would be happy to cover that when interview aka suit season rolls around. I’m a firm believer that dressing the part (regardless of what field you’re in) makes a big difference in your attitude and confidence as you take on each day!
I often talk about my trusted outfit “formulas.” The blouse tucked into a pencil skirt is undoubtedly one of my go-to looks, and can generate endless varaitions with different prints, fabrics, and detailing. Another practical favorite is the skinny ankle pant with a longer (or tucked-in) blouse. And on certain days, nothing feels more chic than a pair of tailored, wide-leg trousers and a cropped blazer.
On Karen: Modcloth top, Ann Taylor pants, Talbots bag c/o, Halogen flats (similar)
If my cousin Karen’s outfit looks familiar, you might recall this Modcloth peplum top from back in this post! See how I styled it there for work with a pop of color and a shorter blazer, as a play on lengths.
This look is from this blog post, but I wanted to show my scalloped tote (which comes in three colors!) again for those asking about cute laptop/work bags. It’s borderline big against my 5′ frame, but is necessary for hauling all my daily junk ~ laptop, change of shoes, snacks, makeup bag, and more. The faux saffiano textured “leather” is easy to clean and maintain, and the base hasn’t needed a shaper even with the weight of my laptop. Now that I’ve been toting this several times a week over a period of time, I can’t recommend it enough! And oh, did I mention it’s under $50?
This outfit remixes several favorites that are now sadly sold out (but I’m hopeful Ann taylor will bring back those bow pumps for a third time!). My ASOS skirt is from last year, but here’s another pencil skirt option in floral on super sale that has a similar pastel color scheme.
This gorgeous skirt out of Karen’s closet combines so many details that I adore! Unfortunately small sizes just sold out online, but maybe try your luck at local Macys’ stores.
I ordered this Express tee last month and was disappointed in how sheer the white fabric was (not as much of an issue with the other colors). I ended up keeping it because I did like how lightweight and comfy it was in the summer heat, but wear a skin-toned bra or nude cami underneath. It’s basically just a soft tee shirt that’s elevated with double ruffle sleeves.
Are you guys tired of these “paper bag” skirts yet? I’ve been reaching for them at least once a week, so expect to see a few more re-styled appearances. I reviewed the chambray version back in this post – do read if you haven’t, since I shrunk mine down to fit. If you’re like me and can legit look 3 months pregnant after lunch, then these adjustable, gathered waists are a godsend compared to non-stretch pencil skirts!
