It’s no secret that my Sloan ankle pants are closet staples, so when Banana Republic asked me to style one pair two ways, I was more than happy to! I decided to do two business casual pairings in a fairly monochromatic color scheme, with different textures mixed in for interest (p.s. everything in these looks are on sale right now!). Outside of work, I love Sloans for everyday wear and travel, since they have a good amount of stretch for comfort but do not “stretch out” (no dreaded baggy knees after prolonged sitting!).
Look 1 – Layered Navy
When I first saw this fringe gingham tweed shell, I thought it’d be a great little piece to wear either alone (imagine it with a cute brooch!) or layered over plain button-ups. Some of you asked for “camouflaging” work outfit ideas for the earlier stages of pregnancy – my shirt underneath is actually a tunic, so you can also wear it untucked as a longer layer to help conceal a small bump (or a belly band holding up un-zipped pants)!
As I’ve mentioned before with Sloan pants, every color and material can run a little differently. For example, this pair in olive (“flight jacket”) felt wonderfully fitted on me, more so than prior year versions. The navy pair in today’s blog post is made of a thicker textured fabric (labeled machine washable – yay!) and felt a little looser. I popped them into the wash and dried on high heat to make them more fitted.
Look 2 – Silky and SLEEK
I went simple with this second pairing in a slinky blouse that drapes and feels similar to silk, but is made of machine-washable poly (Note this blouse needed a steaming out of the package). Also, the neck tie is removable to make it more versatile. I would top this with either a long cardigan / blazer in a neutral shade like soft cream or a similar gray, or go bold with a fun pop of color or print!
Thank you to Banana Republic for partnering on this post. Which of these two looks is your favorite?
Nvm, just reread your post saw that you wrote it’s the navy!
Jean,
Are these Sloan pants the navy or charcoal? (Planning on ordering today bc they’re 50% off.) Also, just picked up 2 pairs of the top shop Jamie’s based on your recommendation! Thanks!
I used to wear the Sloan pants all the time, but recently noticed they changed the way they are made and now are not as flattering and comfy (espeically in the crotch area) anymore. Have you noticed this as well? I am pretty much the same size as you (4″10 and petite) and find it very difficult to find pants that fit well and look nice on my petite frame. Suggestions welcome!
I’ve had this problem as well!! The Sloan’s were an amazing fit on me, but it’s changed in production in a way where the length seems longer and the crotch area is roomier. 🙁
I really liked how you paired pearls with your outfit 🙂
looks so elegant and chic.
I love seeing posts on office style! As I wear office friendly clothing 5 days a week and only have 1 day I can wear those fun ripped jeans and cold shoulder tops! Great post!
These looks are perfect for work!
http://alexamjohnson.com
I love both of these looks so much, but that second top (the silky, poly one) is sooo elegant! 🙂 <3 It's really perfect for the office in the spring!
XO, Elizabeth
http://clothestoyouuu.com/
Good morning jean, congratulations on your pregnancy.
Hope you do not mind sharing your lip color and brand preferences. I got the stila patina based on your previous posts. I loved it!
Thank you
Hi there! My everyday favorite has to be MAC velvet teddy … it’s so natural, it barely looks like you have any lipstick on but it just provides smooth and even color coverage compared to bare lips. I also like Kat Von D liquid lipstick in Lolita, which is slightly less purple-y than the Stila and stays on really well for me through eating or drinking!
love both outfits specially the second one. You always have this delicate and feminine touch in your looks!!
XoXo,
http://www.chicnotebook.com
My favourite one is the one with the cute tweed top. The second one is equally stylish, but too businesslike for in the classroom in my view. I love reading about the perfect stretch material of your trousers. I do own some stretch trousers with the dreaded baggy knees…Good to know where to find a better alternative. Love, Lieske
Love the pants!
https://brightdecember.blogspot.com/
Cute ideas. I love Banana Republic and these pants are bomb!!! Totally trying these two outfits.
I love both looks! You make it look so effortless. The pearls paired with the tweed check shell are so great together.
Can you do a tutorial or Instagram How-to on how to fold your sleeves? Do they stay put or slide around? I have trouble with having my sleeves stay put after I fold them up.
Hi Jackie, I usually have that problem if the shirt is a little “slinkier” or smoother so the material falls out easily – you can try adding a rubber band with those types of shirt sleeves to hold it up in place and then hide the rubber band with a fold. Since this is a more crisp button-up shirt, the sleeves tend to stay folded pretty well. If the shirt has a button clasp at the wrist, I try to button that up as well after folding it up by my elbows (if it can still close at that width).
I love this look!
xx
https://closettostreet.com
This is such a great look on you and I love the grey tones for a neutral spring look!
Felicity | http://oliverandmoose.com
Both these outifts are fab! I love that touch of gingham – it is so elegant and chic!
x
Shloka
http://www.thesilksneaker.com
Happy Fashion Day. The Spring outfit looks of layering is classic.
I appreciate your attention to work wear!
Two questions: do you find the block heels to be flattering on petite women?
They seem comfortable but I’m unsure if they present as sleek as I would like.
And, you mentioned styling the shell layer under other pieces…would it be work appropriate on its own in your opinion?
Thanks!
Yes I LOVE block heels but I look for ones that have more of a streamlined look, like the pointed toe on these navy ones.
Regarding the shell, most professional offices do not allow sleeveless pieces but it should be fine if you work in a more casual or creative industry. If a collared button-up shirt is too formal for your workplace, even a simple white short or long sleeve tee shirt underneath would be an interesting look!
I like both outfits but the layered navy is a bit edgier which makes it fun to wear!!!
These pants are so great on you, both ways!
http://www.jessicabroyles.com
I absolutely love BR’s Sloan pant! It’s one of my favorite pieces to wear for work. I’m pretty petite and I find that these pants fit me like a glove. I love the color you’re wearing here!
Lovely! I especially love the second look.
I used to live in BR trousers and chinos but it’s become nearly impossible to get my size, BR’s 00 regular. It’s never in stock and often not even an option to begin with. Their pants run so large. I’m petite, not quite 5’3″, with (relatively) long legs and can’t wear petite pants. Much harder to find flattering pants these days with BR no longer an option.
Both outfits are amazing, the trousers are gorgeous and super chic. My favourite outfit was probably the second one, I love that blouse, it’s so pretty and luxurious.
Absolutely love it!
I love your outfits Jean! Thanks for the great recs, those jeans look so comfortable!
I hope you’re having a wonderful Friday!
Michael
https://www.mileinmyglasses.com
Such pretty looks! X
Such sweet and cute outfit looks! 💗👍🏼💗
You put the pieces in a wonderful elegant way together!
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
Such an adorable look, Jean! I love the pants especially, and how they cut off at the ankles. The colour palette is the cutest, too
http://charmainenyw.com