Pencil Skirt POW: Classic with a Twist Manic Monday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Add a cardigan with a twist and fun shoes to your classic pencil skirt for an on-trend and chic manic Monday look!

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we look at ways to take classic pieces with on-trend aspects for an easy, stylish office look. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the pencil skirt in general, and the cabi Fall 2016 Sigourney skirt in particular. Since pencil skirts start as chic, professional pieces, they are work-ready. Cardigans are a perfect match, also being classic and work–ready also. They make a really easy outfit to thrown on Mondays when you are not ready to start the week, but want to look like you are. This is such a classic combination that you can play with it and still have a professional work look. Here are a few variations on this with different cardigans and fun prints.

Tips:

  • When going with a classic outfit of a pencil skirt and cardigan, took for ways to shake it up with fun prints and modern twists
  • Mix a bold print pencil skirt with the new neutral navy cardigan for a fun, yet professional look
  • Look for cardigans with modern touches, like longer lengths and chiffon layers
  • Add distinctive shoes for a fun finishing touch
  • Add some feminine flair with ruffles, which complement the straight lines of the pencil skirt
  • A pencil skirt is a great layer under a longer cardigan, as it has the slim lines you get with skinny jeans or leggings

 

Outfit Breakdowns:

Sigourney Skirt Outfit:

  • Skirt: Sigourney Skirt from cabi Fall 2016, which is no longer readily available. See my introductory POW post for ways to get this skirt, turquoise alternatives, or other pencil skirts
  • Blouse: Medallion Reign Blouse from cabi Fall 2016, which is no longer readily available (check out the introductory POW post for ways to get this)
  • Sweater: Sweetheart Sweater, also from cabi Fall 2016, and is no longer readily available (check out the introductory POW post for ways to get this)
  • Shoes: Blue Floral Issy Pump by Ruby Shoo via Zulily (contact me to get an invitation to join!)
  • Earrings: Dolce Charm Earrings from cabi Spring 2016, which is no longer readily available (check out the introductory POW post for ways to get this (they are available via the same ways as the skirt, except they should already be in outlets—go to my introductory POW post for more)

Navy and Yellow Outfit:

 

Related Posts:

  1. Beyond POW: Black, White, and Comfy Manic Monday:  Take knit pieces in white and black for a strong, chic, and comfortable Manic Monday look.
  2. Ponte and Knotted Manic Monday: For a comfortable, professional Monday outfit, dress up your denim shirt with a navy ponte pencil skirt.
  3. Manic Flannel Monday: Outfit Mission Statement: For a cozy yet professional look, take one casual flannel and add lots of professional pieces.

Pencil Skirt POW: Working It Black, White, and Printed Chic Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement:  Mix your feminine, chic pencil skirt with neutral mixed prints and classy jewelry for a put-together, fun, boardroom-ready look

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the pencil skirt in general, and the cabi Fall 2016 Sigourney skirt in particular. A pencil skirt is perfect for work, of course. The chic professionalism of the pencil skirt pairs perfectly with a cute jacket or blouse for work. But it also lets you get away with some more interesting choices, as it adds professionalism to anything.  So, you can mix prints, wear a more causal shirt, and other things, and still look ready to take on the boardroom. This outfit is a fun mix of two cabi seasons and a mix of prints.

Tips:

  • Play off the professionalism of the pencil skirt for unique and fun pieces
  • For a more put-together and professional print mixing, keep your prints to the same neutral colors, like black and white
  • For all-day comfort with the left of a heel, opt for wedges
  • Professional doesn’t have to be serious, feel free to mix prints in surprising ways in professional pieces
  • Add a pop of color in an otherwise black and white outfit for a pop of color and interest
  • A bun will also add some professionalism to more casual pieces, and compliments the chic, feminine pencil skirt

Outfit Breakdown:

 

Related Posts:

  1. Plume POW: Working It Classic & Modern Coco Wednesday: Create a career outfit with the same put-together professionalism as a suit with a few modern interpretations of classic pieces.
  2. Beyond POW: Working It Long, Lean, and Versatile Wednesday: For a long, lean professional look, wear dark neutral layers over a white shirt, a longer pencil skirt, and a cropped jacket.
  3. Go-To POW: Working It Classic Nautical Wednesday posted March 23, 2016: Combine the perfect black work trousers with a classic nautical jacket for chic, preppy, and professional look that implies success .

 

 

Beyond POW: Eleven Styling Techniques to Tie the Beyond Tee

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As we wrap up the twelfth POW, our versatile Beyond Tee, let’s start by reviewing the eleven different styling techniques I showed you to style this amazing top. Which is your favorite?

 

1) Basic Beyond Tee

  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline
  2. Make sure the tunic and panels are not tucked in
  3. Go!

From Beyond POW: Trendy Layers and a New Basic Tuesday

 

 

 

 

 

 

2) Chic Cape

  1. Put it on backwards with the tag in front to for a more elegant back and to show off the back treatment
  2. Take each panel and put it over the shoulder of the side it is on (left panel over left should, right panel over right shoulder), and let them hang down your back and over your arms
  3. Now go some place chic!

From Beyond POW: Chic Classy and Faux Fur Sunday Best

 

3) Elegant Cape

  1. Put it on backwards with the tag in front to for a more elegant back and to show off the back treatment
  2. Take each panel and put it over the shoulder of the side it is on (left panel over left should, right panel over right shoulder), and let them hang down your back and over your arms
  3. Take the inside corners of each panel and tie them in a knot, then let this hang down your back
  4. Now, go be elegant!

From Beyond POW: Chic Classy and Faux Fur Sunday Best

 

4) Sexy Side Wrap

  1. Put it on the normal way, with the tag in back for a lower and more date-ready neckline
  2. Tuck the bottom of the tunic part of the tee shirt (not the panels) into your skirt
  3. Choose the side you want the tie and ends to be, it is best to do it on the side of the panel that overlaps on top of the two panels (left side)
  4. Take the panel on the opposite side (right side) and pull is diagonally across the front of your body to the opposite hip
  5. Take the panel on the knot side (right, and keeping it on top of the other panel), wrap it diagonally across your chest to the left hip
  6. Once it is at your hip, gather it into more of a tie shape than a flat panel
  7. Continue with the right panel, wrapping it around your hip and continuing to wrap it behind you, from your right hip to left hip
  8. Gather both panels at the left hip and tie them, letting the ends drape down your side

From Beyond Star POW: Fiery Femme Fatale Date Night

 

5) Draped Curves

  1. Put it on the normal way with the tag in back
  2. Take each panel and wrap it around your side to the back, with right panel going to the right and left to the left
  3. Cross the panels in back, pulling the right one to the left and left one to the right
  4. Bring the panels around to the front
    • Keep the panels at waist level 
    • Keep the panels smoother, not gathered 
    • Check your wrap—the left panels should now be coming around your right side and the right panel around your left side
  5. Take the top corner of the bottom of each panel and tie in a knot at your natural waist
  6. Let the bottom corners hang down, creating a fun draped look that will emphasize curves while hiding the tummy

From Beyond POW: Faux Fur and Real Curves Thursday

 

6) Long Vest

  1. Put it on backwards with the tag in front for a higher and more professional neckline
  2. Tuck the bottom of the tunic part of the tee shirt (not the panels) into your skirt
  3. Wear the panels down each side as they naturally fall
  4. Add a thin print belt at your natural waist for curves

From Beyond POW: Black, White, and Comfy Manic Monday

 

7) Long Professional Vest with two options

 Variations on the Long Vest

Open

Open

  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline, to better display the shirt collar
  2. Tuck the bottom of the tunic part of the tee shirt (not the panels) into your skirt
  3. Wear the panel down each side in one of two ways: 
    • Closed: Pull the panels closed in front, leaving minimal gap, and creating an almost dress look
    • Open: Pull the panels more apart, creating an inverted V shape that show more of the bottom of the outfit under than the top

From Beyond POW: Working It Long, Lean, and Versatile Wednesday

 

8) Simple Back Tie

closeup.jpg
  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline
  2. Take the two panels and wrap each back on its side—so wrap the right on around to your back on the right and left on the left
  3. Tie the two panels in back at about your natural waist

From Beyond POW: Versatile Layers for doing it all Saturday

 

 

 

 

9) Professional Back Tie Wednesday

A variation of the Simple Back Tie

  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline, to better display the shirt collar
  2. Take the two panels and wrap each back on its side—so wrap the right on around to your back on the right and left on the left
  3. Tie the two panels in back at about your natural waist
  4. Tuck the tunic part of the tee into your skirt, creating a vest type of look

From Beyond POW: Working It Long, Lean, and Versatile Wednesday

 

 

 

 

10) Hip Tie

 

  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline
  2. Wear the tee with the tunic part of the tee down over your leggings (or whatever) as a tunic and the panels out and down in their natural state
  3. Gather the tunic fabric (not the panels) on one side and knot it high on your hip for a fun look with distinct layers

From Beyond POW: Versatile Layers for doing it all Saturday

 

 

 

11) Double Tie

  1. Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline
  2. Take the two panels and wrap each back on its side—so wrap the right on around to your back on the right and left on the left
  3. Tie the two panels in back at about your natural waist
  4. Make sure the tunic part of the tee is out (not tucked in) and pull it down over your leggings or whatever as a tunic

  5. Gather the tunic fabric on one side and knot it high on your hip for a sassier, slimming take on this tee

    From Beyond POW: Versatile Layers for doing it all Saturday

 

 

There, eleven different ways! Did you find any others? If so, please share them below.

I’m amazed at how versatile the Beyond Tee is! It is probably the most versatile piece I own. So, it is perfect for travel; small closets; limited budgets; busy professionals; moms; and busy career moms; and stylish fashionistas of all types! I adore mine, in case you can’t tell.

Unfortunately, I wrote this after the cabi Fall 2016 season has closed, which means this amazing top is no longer available via the traditional means. It is also such a unique piece that I’ve been unable to find an alternative to suggest. However, if you must have this piece, here are some ways you may be able to get it:

  • First, always try your stylist. She may have a sample available, know of another stylist with a sample available, or have other ways to get it. If you do not have one you may reach out to my stylist Joni Allen (via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), Leigh Cheatwood-Harris (a friend’s stylist whom I have worked with also and can recommend: email and her site), or find a cabi stylist near you.
  • Second, check out resale, such as the Facebook groups or apps that allow people to sell their cabi or ebay.
  • Third, wait until August, when the outlets will get the Fall 2016 line and to go or call an outlet to see if they have this. Many outlets will allow you to order over the phone and then ship it to you.

Beyond POW: Working It Long, Lean, and Versatile Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement:  For a long, lean professional look, wear dark neutral layers over a white shirt, a longer pencil skirt, and a cropped jacket  

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Beyond Tee from cabi Fall 2016. The Beyond Tee is so versatile that it can easily transform into a professional look—just add a pencil skirt, white button-up blouse, and a jacket and you are ready for the boardroom. There are two different ways you can style the Beyond Tee in this professional look—the “Long Professional Vest” technique or the “Professional Back Tie” technique. The Professional Back Tie gives a more polished professional look, and the Long Professional Vest gives a creative, flowy look that offers two minor variations (an open vest look and a closed vest look).

Depending on your office environment, you can also skip the jacket and wear the Beyond Tee over the white blouse, for a vest-type look. I didn’t show this, but it is another great twist on a professional office look with this versatile top.

Beyond Tee Styling Technique: Long Professional Vest with two options

To rock the “Long Professional Vest” technique (slight adjustment from Beyond POW: Black, White, and Comfy Manic Monday):

  • Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline, to better display the shirt collar
  • Tuck the bottom of the tunic part of the tee shirt (not the panels) into your skirt
  • Wear the panel down each side in one of two ways:
    1. Closed: Pull the panels closed in front, leaving minimal gap, and creating an almost dress look
    2. Open: Pull the panels more apart, creating an inverted V shape that show more of the bottom of the outfit under than the top
Long Professional Vest: Closed

Long Professional Vest: Closed

Long Professional Vest: Open

Long Professional Vest: Open

Beyond Tee Styling Technique: Professional Back Tie

To enjoy the “Professional Back Tie” technique, which is a variation of the Simple Back Tie in Beyond POW: Versatile Layers for doing it all Saturday:

  • Put it on the frontwards way with the tag in back for a lower neckline, to better display the shirt collar
  • Take the two panels and wrap each back on its side—so wrap the right on around to your back on the right and left on the left
  • Tie the two panels in back at about your natural waist
  • Tuck the tunic part of the tee into your skirt, creating a vest type of look

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tips:

  • Wearing a mix of darker neutrals with a white button-down adds a level of professionalism
  • On warmer days or in more casual offices, leave the jacket at home and wear the Beyond Tee in either style over the white blouse and pencil skirt
  • A cropped jacket over dark neutrals can give you lean look by lengthening your legs and emphasizing (or creating) an hourglass figure, especially if it has a light band at the bottom
  • Look for a pencil skirt with darker side panels for additional slimming and lengthening
  • A knee-length or slightly longer pencil skirt length is very on-trend, but best for those of average height or taller (the longer skirts work better on taller women, generally—if you are average height the knee-length is quite flattering)
  • If black washes you out, look for dark grays and navy for strong, professional power outfits
  • When wearing a mix of dark grays and blacks (with white) for work, feel free to keep the scheme going with some gray shoes—you can even go a little more playful with them (these are gray tweed and higher than I tend to wear professionally)
  • With a sleek professional clothing look, you can opt to wear your hair down (although a sleek up do always works and will up the professionalism)
  • If you have some cool back detail on your top, such as the tie in back, a short crop jacket will allow you to show it off

 

Outfit Breakdown:

If you would like the Beyond Tee or other cabi, contact your cabi stylist. If you do not have one, please contact me in the comments or via email, reach out to my stylist Joni Allen (via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), Leigh Cheatwood-Harris (a friend’s stylist whom I have worked with also and can recommend: email and her site) or find a cabi stylist near you.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Destructed White POW: Working It Professional, High-End, Destructed Wednesday: Mix high-end, sophisticated pieces with your destructed jean for a rich, yet edgy, boardroom look.
  2. Pleated Star POW: Working It Printed, Pleated & Classy Wednesday:  When you start with a dressy skirt, you don’t need to add a jacket to be profession, just a crisp blouse and sophisticated accessories
  3.  Plume POW: Working It Classic & Modern Coco Wednesday: Create a career outfit with the same put-together professionalism as a suit with a few modern interpretations of classic pieces

Beyond POW: Black, White, and Comfy Manic Monday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Take knit pieces in white and black for a strong, chic, and comfortable Manic Monday look

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we focus on creating a fun, high-contrast, but still comfortable work outfit. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the Beyond Tee from cabi Fall 2016. In this look, I take advantage of the long panels to create modern, open jacket look. The outfit is also very comfortable, with a knit pencil skirt and tee shirt—it may be more comfortable than your pjs! Together with the mixed prints, this is a chic, yet comfortable look to rock some manic Mondays. The high contrast of white and black gives it a dressier and more sophisticated air, meaning you could be both more comfortable and dressier than your coworkers—always a great combo. I am wearing the Beyond Tee backwards here, for a higher neckline that looks more professional with the sleeveless style. If you add a layer, you could wear it either way.

If your autumn has been as warm as mine, you are looking for new ways to style cool work outfits, so you do not overheat. But, if you are having crisp fall days, consider adding a cardigan, cropped jacket, long sleeved top, or turtleneck with this outfit to keep your arms warm.

 

Beyond Tee Styling Technique: Long Vest

To rock the “Long Vest” technique:

  1. Put it on backwards with the tag in front for a higher and more professional neckline 
  2. Tuck the bottom of the tunic part of the tee shirt (not the panels) into your skirt
  3. Wear the panels down each side as they naturally fall
  4. Add a thin print belt at your natural waist for curves

 

Tips:

  • When going sleeveless in the office, go with a higher neckline to add coverage and a more professional air
  • Don’t forget to follow the rules of mixing prints--in this case the prints works because the prints are different sizes and the same colors, plus animal prints can often be considered a neutral (when in their natural colors)
  • To add curves, wear a bold skinny belt at your natural waist
  • When wearing something that could be seen as casual, stick to black or black and white for a more professional feel
  • A low soft ponytail is an easy, yet professional, manic Monday hairstyle
  • Remember, when mixing white, they do not have to be the same shades of white
  • Play up the pattern mixing by wearing shoes with some type of a pattern, even straps

 

Outfit Breakdown:

If you would like the Beyond Tee, contact your cabi stylist. If you do not have one, please contact me in the comments or via email, reach out to my (Joni Allen via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), or find a cabi stylist near you.

 

Related Posts:

  1. Bardot POW: Ponte and Knotted Manic Monday Posted June 06, 2016: For a comfortable, professional Monday outfit, dress up your denim shirt with a navy ponte pencil skirt
  2. Plaid POW: Manic Flannel Monday Posted February 22, 2016: For a cozy yet professional look, take one casual flannel and add lots of professional pieces
  3. Michelle POW: Manic Peasant in Ponte Monday Posted March 07, 2016: For a casual, yet professional, office look, consider ponte and a peasant blouse with your cardigan

Destructed White POW: Soft mixed prints and rips Manic Monday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Make those destructed jeans professional with a classy blazer, color colors, and a sophisticated print mix

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we focus on creating a soft, pretty work outfit. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 of Destructed Slim Boyfriend jeans. White jeans, destructed or not, give you a nice base for highlighting soft colors and fabrics, such as the grays and yellows here in silk and a soft knit. The soft colors pop against white, especially an antique white, giving you a nice opportunity to wear those light, feminine garments. The white also is a nice base for mixing prints, as it does not compete with the prints. Of course, the destructed jeans need to be mixed with more professional pieces to make the average of the outfit appropriate for business casual. Often my Monday looks will not include jackets (I save those for the more professional Wednesday outfits), but more casual, easy pieces. But, if you are wearing destructed jeans to work, a jacket add a nice professional balance.  I went with a soft jacket that has almost a sweater texture and feel, so it is almost like a cardigan. With the soft woven jacket, silk blouse, and super soft jeans, this outfit is more comfortable than PJs, keeping an easy feel to your Manic Monday!

Tips:

  • To balance the casual edge of the destructed jeans, wear a professional jacket
  • Mix soft feminine colors with the destructed jeans to further tone them down for work
  • Use the white jeans (or pants) as a base to show off lighter, softer colors
  • When mixing prints, especially prints of the same colors, make one of your main garments a white
  • Consider the rules for mixing prints, such as differing the size of the print and fabric
  • Do consider mixing yellow and gray, especially for work—I LOVE this combo (I’m even planning to paint my kitchen in yellow and gray)
  • To keep a professional feel to the outfit, wear jewelry in the same color scheme, especially any statement pieces (such as this lovely necklace)
  • Work with a limited palette to make the overall outfit feel more professional, such as the white, grey, and yellow palette here (with some subtle gold)
  • Remember you can replace white pants or regular white jeans here for the destructed jeans for a more professional look or if your workplace does not allow ripped jeans (mine does not)

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

If you want the jeans, contact your cabi stylist ASAP! The season has closed, but she may still be able to help you with samples or access to the retired season pieces. If you do not have a stylist, please contact me in the comments or via email, reach out to my (Joni Allen via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), or find a cabi stylist near you. Or, consider these alternatives:

 

 

Related Posts:

  1. Destructed White POW: Working It Professional, High-End, Destructed Wednesday posted July 13, 2016: Mix high-end, sophisticated pieces with your destructed jean for a rich, yet edgy, boardroom look
  2. Margherita POW: Easy Professionalism Manic Monday posted May 16, 2016: For an easy-to-throw on Monday outfit, grab your favorite sundress and then add a jacket, simple matching jewelry, and comfy shoes
  3. Plume POW: Manic Pretty Strong Monday posted April 04, 2016: Mix a military-inspired jacket with skinny jeans and a feminine top for a strong, pretty, casual, yet professional work look

Plus, for other Manic Monday easy, professional outfits, check out the other posts!

Destructed White POW: Working It Professional, High-End, Destructed Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix high-end, sophisticated pieces with your destructed jean for a rich, yet edgy, boardroom look

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Destructed Slim Boyfriend jeans. Destructed jeans may not be everyone’s idea of office appropriate. If this doesn’t work for your office, consider regular white jeans, white linen pants, or other white pants instead. As discussed in Pretty in Pink & Pearls Sunday Best, the trick to making destructed jeans work for dressier occasions, like work, is to combine it with dressier/more professional pieces, even over the top dressy/professional pieces.   High-end pieces with special details can be the way to do that. Think designer. Think quality. Think professional. The high-end Cruise Jacket is a perfect example of a classy, professional piece with rich details, like gold and enamel buttons. Even with destructed jeans, you can create a rich, boardroom-ready outfit by combining them with sophisticated and classy items.

 

Tips:

  • Mix destructed jeans with high-end, professional pieces that have rich details for a sophisticated, yet edgy, office look
  • Add a lux leopard print belt for a funky, yet classy touch
  • Mix sophisticated patterns, like a nautical stripe and classy leopard print, to add class and style
  • Grab a designer handbag for a polished finishing touch
  • Look for luxurious, but not loud, accessories to add further sophistication and affluence
  • Consider rich fabrics, like suede, faux animal hair, and luxurious woven fabrics to contrast with the rips
  • Style your hair in a sleek chignon for a smooth, put-together look
  • Combine different shades of white for on-trend sophistication

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

If you want of these cabi pieces, contact your cabi stylist ASAP! The season is closing, but she may still be able to help you with samples or have access to the retired season pieces. If you do not have a stylist, please contact me in the comments or via email, reach out to my stylist, Joni Allen, via email or phone: 770 502-5243 [call or text]), or find a cabi stylist near you. 

 

Related Posts:

  1. Go-to POW: Working It Classic Nautical Wednesday posted March 23, 2016. Combine the perfect black work trousers with a classic nautical jacket for chic, preppy, and professional look that implies success.
  2. Bardot POW: Working It Wrapped, Classy Linen & Denim Wednesday posted June 08, 2016. Make your denim shirt work for work by pairing it with a classic neutral linen trouser and sophisticated accessories.
  3. Plume POW: Working It Classic & Modern Coco Wednesday posted April 06, 2016.  Create a career outfit with the same put-together professionalism as a suit with a few modern interpretations of classic pieces.

 

Bardot POW: Working It Wrapped, Classy Linen & Denim Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Make your denim shirt work for work by pairing it with a classic neutral linen trouser and sophisticated accessories

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Bardot Shirt. Of course, the easy way to dress up a denim shirt for the boardroom would be to add it to a two piece suit, or wear a blazer, or do any number of rather predictable, but interesting, things. However, for a lovely denim shirt with special details, like this one, you don’t need to go the easy way. Simply add professional, quality pieces that say class and sophistication, and you can make it work!

Tips:

  • Dress up your denim shirt for work by pairing it with a nice, professional pair of linen trousers in a neutral
  • Add classy accessories and shoes to add sophistication and professionalism
  • Consider mixing lighter neutrals for a cultured look, such as cream, beige, burnished gold, and leopard print
  • A fine quality leopard print belt can add class to a work look (but be careful of going overboard, leopard can get trashy is there is too much or the quality is poor)
  • Just because it is a button-down, it does not mean you need to button it all the way down!  Consider a diagonal wrap instead (see directions below)
  • Want more sophistication? Add a designer handbag
  • Consider a nice crisp cream linen, for a more refined look
  • Tuck in your shirt for a dressier look

 

Directions for Wrap Tuck:

  • Start with a denim shirt that is baggy on you (a size up)
  • Button the buttons down to your bust or a bit lower (more or less depending on the amount you want to wrap)
  • With your pants undone, take the shirttail of the piece that is on top (has the button holes), and wrap around you, creating a diagonal line
  • With a safety pin, pin the shirttail into this diagonal shape, making sure the pin stays below where the pants will tuck (if needed add more above the tuck line, just find ways to do it invisibly)
  • Tuck in your shirt, making sure to keep the diagonal
  • Add a belt for additional waist slimming attention

 

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

Related Posts:

  1. Bardot POW: Ponte and Knotted Manic Monday posted June 6, 2016. For a comfortable, professional Monday outfit, dress up your denim shirt with a navy ponte pencil skirt
  2. Plaid POW: Working It Flannel Wednesday posted February 24, 2016. Even flannel can work in a formal office when combined with very professional pieces
  3. Plaid POW: Manic Flannel Monday posted February 22, 2016. For a cozy yet professional look, take one casual flannel and add lots of professional pieces

Plus, check out the other Working It Wednesday posts.

 

Margherita POW: Working It Buttoned-Down Flowy Wednesday

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Margherita POW: Working It Buttoned-Down Flowy Wednesday

Outfit Mission Statement: Turn a sundress professional by wearing a white button-down shirt and a blazer over it

 

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Margherita Dress. In some ways this outfit plays off the concept we discussed last time—adding a blazer or cardigan to a sundress to make it work appropriate. To be even more professional, take it a step further: add a blouse too! In this outfit I am treating the sundress like a skirt and wearing a blouse and jacket with it. With a blazer and blouse, you can turn many a thing professional, especially this sundress. I love the blouse and jacket over the more casual flowy skirt with pockets—a touch of fun and flow with formality!

A white blouse is another wardrobe essential, make sure you have at least one. While you can use a variety of different cotton button-down blouses for this look, the white is more professional.

Tips:

 

 

Read More

Margherita POW: Easy Professionalism Manic Monday

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Margherita POW: Easy Professionalism Manic Monday

Outfit Mission Statement: For an easy-to-throw on Monday outfit, grab your favorite sundress and then add a jacket, simple matching jewelry, and comfy shoes

 

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we focus on creating an easy, flowy work outfit. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 of Margherita Dress. Sundresses are so easy to dress up or down. To make it work for a casual day at the office, simply throw a light cardigan or blazer on and you are good to go—perfect for a manic Monday. For these manic Monday outfits I try to go really simple and easy—things that require little thought for the hazy Monday morning mind and are things you can pretty much throw on and run out the door and be comfortable throughout the day. This outfit is a great example of that, while maintaining a professional feel. Dresses are about as easy as it gets. Blazers are a quick and easy way to make an outfit look more professional. Put them together—easy professionalism! If you work in a more casual setting, you can go with a cardigan instead, perhaps modifying the White Out Over Navy Saturday outfit!

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Fall into Spring: Rocking Your Fall Moto in the Spring

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In any good wardrobe you can mix fall pieces into your spring looks. One of the many great things about the cabi collections is the pieces work across seasons. I’m going to highlight six great pieces from the fall collection that you may have in your wardrobe and show how you can wear them with the spring cabi collection. But if you don’t have these pieces or if you are not a cabi fan, I’ll discuss how you can take similar pieces and rock the more traditional fall pieces this spring and summer!

First off—the Twilight Jacket! This is a motorcycle-inspired jacket in a dark steel color. If you don’t have this piece, any dark neutral moto jacket can be styled similarly. I bought this jacket in the fall, but am finding that I am wearing it a lot more this spring. I tend to wear it in two ways—one as an inside layer jacket (think blazer) and the other is as an outside jacket/layer (think motorcycle jacket). In either case it provides a nice edge with the moto styling. I find the dark grey softens the edge somewhat, making it work even better for office wear. The asymmetrical zip and cropped style are slimming, creating a lovely waist right at where we may have a problem area (masking it wonderfully.

If you are looking for a moto jacket in dark colors, checkout:

For moto jackets in spring colors, try:

The moto styling is a fabulous contrast to the bright, feminine colors and lace of the spring, adding an edge to the sweet. You may find this is a nice balance for you if the more feminine styles this spring are not your cup of tea (or snifter of whiskey). I especially love how the grey of the moto goes with the bright colors of the Plume Top (styled in seven other ways here). Other cabi spring 2016 tops that work wonderfully with the Twilight jacket or other motos include the Bella Top (a lovely combo), Gelato Top,  Linea Cami, Luisa Tank, Positano Top, and the Vita Blouse. From your own spring wardrobe, look for pretty and ideally colorful short or sleeveless blouses.

Style Tips:

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  • Use your fall moto jacket to add some edge to your spring florals and laces
  • For a comfortable yet edgy business casual outfit for work, wear the moto as a jacket with your bring blouse and some comfortable ponte pants, such as the Capote Trouser (as shown)
  • For a fun date outfit, consider the same type of outfit, just replace the pants with skinny jeans, perhaps the Destructed Skinny (regular or curvy)
  • Roll the sleeves of the moto up for a fresh, on-trend look that may make you more comfortable on these warming days
 

Outfit Breakdown:

Run Around POW: Working It Office Goddess Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Bring some Grecian Goddess-inspired style to your office with draping in all the right places

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Run Around Skirt. There are a lot ways you can dress this elegant, comfortable, and easy skirt to make it work for a more formal work office. Wearing it with a black jacket will create a formal suit look with the added elegance of the skirt. I decided to mix it up some with bright colors and a fun jacket, while maintaining a professional look. The same discussion I had for Manic Monday’s outfit on wearing this skirt for work still applies—wear this in place of a more typical A-line or pencil skirt. The drape gives it a Grecian Goddess feel—a power piece in any office, right? For the added professionalism of a Wednesday outfit, make sure you added more professional pieces. Instead of a cardigan, wear a jacket. Instead of a tank, wear a blouse. Instead of strappy sandals, wear peep-toe heels. Add some professional jewelry, and you are ready to rock (or rule over from Mount Olympus) that boardroom presentation!

Tips:

  • Check out the tips for Manic Monday, as many fit here too
  • Mix classic work pieces, like a blouse and jacket, with a unique skirt for new take on boardroom goddess chic
  • When wearing neutral and smaller prints, consider popping a bright color in your blouse or accessories to add interest (and fun!)
  • As mentioned in the Plume Manic Monday, roll the jacket cuffs for a more modern take on the classic (and keep cooler during the summer heat or a hot flash)
  • When wearing a distinctive skirt and bright shirt, consider keeping your accessories and jewelry more neutral and basic, especially in more professional settings—but you do not need to be boring
  • Remember you can change the formality of the outfit by zipping up (or otherwise closing) the jacket some or all the way—the more closed the more formal
  • Power pieces for work can be ones that bring out the inner goddess in you, such as the draping on this skirt!

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

Run Around POW: Elegant Layers and Brights Manic Monday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Combine a unique skirt with office classics in bright colors for a different, upbeat career look

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we focus on creating an easy elegant work outfit. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2016 Run Around Skirt. With multiple layers and lengths, this is not your typical work skirt. But that doesn’t mean it can’t work for work! Since the various layers cover as well as a slightly above the knee skirt would (at least on my height of about 5’7), you could wear this in place of a more typical pencil or A-line skirt. Since it is incredibly comfortable, it is a perfect Manic Monday skirt. Its layers and lengths, along with the drape in front, give is a distinctive elegance that you may not normally do as you rush out the door on a Monday morning, but are as easy as pie with this skirt. The drape also helps hide any indulging sins of the weekend. If you want something comfortable, elegant, and unique to throw on come some Manic Monday, this skirt is a perfect choice. Plus, with the amazing Lenzing fabric you don’t have to worry about discovering the garment you planned to wear needs to be ironed. For a really easy, comfortable, and yet professional look, combine this with other wrinkle-free fabrics that are comfortable. I also suggest bright colors, to contrast the black and had some joy to your Monday. The cardigan and top I show here are great examples of both color and comfort. You can quickly throw the three on and run out the door, knowing you look great!

Tips:

  • Combine pieces that are wrinkle-free and comfortable, but still professional, for a quick rush-out-the-door career look
  • Consider adding a distinctive, unique skirt to your work wardrobe, as long as it covers as well as your typical work skirts—favor these in skirts blacks or dark neutrals for a more professional look
  • Trying to hide the overindulgence of the weekend or some bloating? Look for pieces that drape around the problem areas, such as this skirt, hiding the problems in some Grecian style
  • If the alarm came too early and you look tired, consider brighter colors near your face to brighten you up and add some joy to your day
  • When dressing in brights and bolds, consider accessories that are neutrals (including mental neutrals like gold and silver), especially in more professional setting
  • When going with longer layers on the bottom, try short layers on top, such as a tucked in shirt and a cropped cardigan
  • If you are wearing one garment you feel is outside of what you typically wear to work (maybe on the boarder of your professional wear comfort zone), combine it with pieces that clearly professional, such as a floral top and cardigan

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

Plume POW: Manic Pretty Strong Monday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix a military-inspired jacket with skinny jeans and a feminine top for a strong, pretty, casual, yet professional work look

 

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we focus on creating a chic work outfit. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi Spring 2106 Plume Top. While styled with the ease of a tee shirt, this blouse can easily be styled up for work. It especially works is a more casual work look with a blazer and jeans. I’m a huge fan of the blazer and jean combination anyway. Add this Plume Top and you have an amazing, casual apropos of work look! Due to all the colors in this top, you can easily pop any of them with your accessories or shoes. I felt the orange made a nice contrast to the green and was less expected than purple or magenta. This top is great for the casual office look for many reasons, but one of my favorites is layering! If you get hot, you can take the jacket off, and not worry about showing off too much (including a bra strap). Make sure you have some blouses like this in your work (and rest of life) wardrobe!

Tips:

  • For a casual work look, combine a pretty top, nice fitting blazer, and skinny jeans
  • Pop a less expected color in the blouse with your accessories or shoes for added interest and sophisticate styling
  • Roll those jeans to show off your shoes and look more put together
  • Roll the jacket cuffs for a more modern take on the classic (and keep cooler during the summer heat or a hot flash)
  • Consider playing off the safari feel of the jacket with some fun shoes
  • Contrast the femininity of the blouse with a safari- or military-styled jacket for a strong, yet pretty look that is ready for anything
  • When doing business casual, lean towards darker washed jeans, as they look more professional
  • Look for blouses that layer well and can work without layer on top for when you get hot
  • With a neutral jacket and dark wash jeans (also a neutral), you can grab any blouse for a quick, professional work outfit

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 
 
 

Plaid POW: Manic Flannel Monday

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Outfit Mission Statement: For a cozy yet professional look, take one casual flannel and add lots of professional pieces

Manic Monday outfits are easy career clothes to throw on for manic Mondays. This Monday we focus on mixing casual flannel into a work appropriate outfit. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the L.L. Bean Slightly Fitted Scotch Plaid Shirt in Deep Evergreen Tartan. The secret to wearing plaid flannel to work is to treat it like a normal cotton button-down shirt. Depending on where you work, you may be able to just wear the flannel shirt. However, if your workplace is more formal than that, consider layering. Put a cardigan or V-neck sweater over the flannel for a cozy take on a classic business look. This will tone down a bright flannel, like I am wearing, and also add a layer (literally) of professionalism—the casual flannel becomes office ready! After that, keep the rest of your outfit professional to further balance the casualness of the flannel. You don’t have to go overboard with the professionalism of the other pieces—we’re not talking a black suit, bun, and pearls (save that for Working It Wednesday). But do make sure they are all work appropriate and not borderline professional. Here I selected a navy skirt, which added a neutral while tying in with the shirt, and a cardigan. My jewelry is on the simpler side but still has a bit of sparkle. I did go with a bun for that added touch of professionalism. Overall, this is a cozy, cute, and professional outfit, perfect for Manic Mondays! I love this look. It does have a feel of a Maine librarian or Kindergarten teacher to me; both cozy & practical.

 

Tips:

  • Wear the flannel shirt like a normal cotton-button down 
  • Add a layer of professionalism (and possibly tone done the flannel) over the flannel via a cardigan or V-neck sweater 
  • When incorporating a casual piece, always make sure the other pieces are professional to balance
  • Consider adding a belt if the cardigan or sweater gives you a boxier shape to turn it into something more hourglass (this may be more necessary with that thicker flannel shirt under the sweater/cardigan)
  • Keep accessories on the neutral and simpler side, but you don’t need to go completely professional or safe
  • Top the look off with a bun or other more formal hairstyle to ensure you project professionalism
  • Show off peeks of the bright flannel by having the hem show beneath the cardigan and rolling the sleeves over the cardigan sleeves for a more modern take

 

Outfit Breakdown:

  • Flannel Shirt: L.L. Bean Slightly Fitted Scotch Plaid Shirt in Deep Evergreen Tartan          
  • Cardigan: This is the cabi Fall 2104 Billi cardigan and no longer available. However, cabi Spring 2016 has several great cardigans:
  • Skirt: This is the cabi Spring 2013 Bon Voyage skirt and only available via used or sample sales (like on ebay). For a brand available option, consider the Lido Skirt from cabi Spring 2016 collection—it’s navy also but a pencil skirt style. 
  • Belt: I think I got this from Target a year or so ago. Al you need is a simple thin belt like these, these, or this.
  • Shoes: I bought these several years ago from Mod Cloth. Here are some similar they have available now: 
    • Jaunts and Needs: With front laces, cutout, and hidden platforms, you can bee professional and cute 
    • Live in the Presents: A Navy heel with a strap and bow detail that is both sweet and professional (also in beige)
    • Take your Dances: A powder blue with a t-strap, peep toe, and cutout, this heel will give anything a vintage feel. 
  • Earrings: These are cabi Fall 2014 Vintage Stud earrings in silver and black and not available. But, consider these Stella & Dot options:
    • Vintage Crystal Studs: These are about the same size and I tend to wear these interchangeably  
    • Déjà vu Studs: With a pearl on one side and s spike on the other, you can go classy or edgy
  • Necklace: This gunmetal and silver bar necklaces is by Shine Chaser Jewelry. While she does not currently have a bar necklace available, you can probably custom order one or choose one of her many other lovely pieces, such as the Green & Black Paper Bead Pendant with Hematite Bead Accents  

 

 

If you love the idea, but want something more apropos of the warming temperatures, consider the embroidered denim Bardot Shirt, Michelle Cardigan, and the Lido Skirt from cabi Spring 2016 collection. Add the Green & Black Paper Bead Pendant with Hematite Bead Accents necklace, Vintage Crystal Studs, and Head Role heels.




Love POW: Working It Lady-Like Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Look for feminine details, like gathers, ruffles, and flares, and add a feminine blouse to turn a blah business suit into lady-like office style

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi fall 2015 Love Blouse. This blouse makes a great pop of color in an all-black (or other neutral) suite, as you see here. I paired the Abbott Jacket with the Skater Skirt, creating this black suit. Black suits can often appear harsh, but I tone this one down not only with the feminine Love Blouse, but also by choosing suiting options with feminine features. The Abbott jacket has amazing three-quarter length sleeves with gathers and a twist to give them a unique and very lady-like appeal. The Skater Skirt has a fit and flare styling, which give it swing and more femininity. Together we have gathers, flares, ruffles, and twists for elegant business wear of the tenue de ville (or international business attire/informal) level of dress code. The skirt is also the very comfortable ponte knit I mentioned before—perfectly professional and perfectly comfortable.

 

Tips:

  • Tone down and bring a lady-like style to the stark black suite with feminine details, like a flared skirt or gathered sleeves
  • Add a pop of feminine color with a lovely blouse to also tone down the starkness of a black suit
  • As I said in Monday’s post, get ponte knit career clothes, if you don’t already have some (and add more if you do
  • For more formal office, keep your accessories small and neutral (such as gold or silver), but feel free to sneak in extra touches, like a belt
  • When you have a lovely collar, pop it up over the jacket collar
  • Create your own suit from separates, so they work great together and apart

 

Outfit Breakdown:

The clothing items in this outfit are all cabi Fall 2015, and no longer available. Contact me if you must have something and I may be able to direct you to a stylist who has it. Look for substitutes from your own closet or check out the alternatives below. I normally with make the POW a currently available item, but my blog launched later than planned and I wanted to share these outfits. The next POW will be of an available item, I promise!

  • Blouse: This is the cabi fall 2015 Love Blouse. To find a substitute from your own closet, look for a feminine blouse with a special feature. If you don’t have quite the right blouse to substitute in your closet, consider these cabi Spring 2016 alternatives:
    •  Vita Blouse: This gorgeous draped blouse is also sleeveless, and has a sexy cutout in the back. 
    • Bella Top: This feminize, fluttery blouse has a similar feel to the love blouse. 
    • Plaza Top: This classic, flowing blue and white blouse has a cute Henley collar.
    • Tivoli Top: This fierce black and taupe blouse has plenty of cool features.
  • Jacket: Shown is the cabi fall 2015 Abbott Jacket. For a business look, any jacket could work. But for this look, something with feminine details is best. 
    •  Verde Jacket: Not as formal, but t has his cotton/spandex mix is soft and stretchy and this green color is amazing! It also has lovely feminine details on the jacket pockets  
    • Lido Jacket: Also not as formal, this longer navy ponte jacket pairs well with the XXXX shirt for a suit look 
    • Cruise Jacket: Not as formal, but this nautical theme jacket can work in dressier business settings with ease
  • Skirt: This Skater Skirt is also from cabi Fall 2015. There is one skirt in the cabi Spring 2016 collection that could work, the Lido Skirt. This classic pencil skirt is in navy and has a tiered hem for a feminine touch. It is a works perfectly with the Lido jacket to make a skirt. Some skater or fit and flare skirt options: 
  • Shoes: These are older black open-toed shoes with a bow detail. Consider instead:  
    • Good Lux: Aerosoles with an open toe and buckle detail
    • Benefit: Peep toe shoes with a bow details, also by Aerosoles    
    • Benn Station: Also peep toed, with a punch design that almost looks like lace, by Aerosoles
  • Jewelry: For belt and bracelet, I am wearing the cabi Fall 2016 Heirloom necklace—the necklace converts into several different pieces. My earrings are Vintage Stud earrings for cabi Fall 2014. The cabi Spring 2016 Locket Necklace is also a convertible piece and can be worn as a bracket and belt also, and has a similar feel to the Heirloom. The Dolce Charm Earrings go well with the necklace, and continue the feminine feel.
 

Want to work a Spring version of this outfit? Consider this outfit that applies the same rules from the cabi Spring 2016 collection: Lido Jacket, Bella Top, Lido Skirt, Locket Necklace, and the Dolce Charm Earrings. Add the Good Lux: Aerosoles for the finishing touch.





More POW week 1: Working It Media Style Wednesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: For professional outfits, limit your bold and striking pieces to two and keep accessories neutral and minimal.  

Working it Wednesday outfits are professional career clothes, often a step or two above Manic Monday outfits. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the cabi fall 2015 Media Jacket. This time, I took the blouse and jacket combo from the Monday look to the Wednesday look, trading the casual track pants for a more professional skirt. This skirt, blouse, and jacket combo is very professional, yet it packs power and color. The flowers and gathered collar of the blouse and the wrap overlap detail on the skirt give the outfit a feminine flair, which is balanced with the metallic, futuristic sheen of the jacket. Given the color and shine of this outfit, you can keep your jewelry and make-up to a minimum and let the clothing shine. Plus, the lovely gathered collar detailing means you can let the collar be your necklace for the day (saving some time looking for the perfect piece). Since this outfits has two of the same pieces as the Manic Monday outfit, I do not suggest wearing them the same week!

Tips:

  • When your blouse and jacket make strong statements, keep your accessories and makeup minimal
  • If you have a fancy collar, consider not wearing a necklace to bring focus to the collar (and not fight with it); if you do wear a necklace, go for longer styles
  • If you have a great jacket and blouse combo, consider ways to dress it up and down for variety and to stretch that wardrobe, such as this professional outfit and the more casual Manic Monday outfit
  • Don’t be afraid to combine two bold pieces, as long as you keep the rest neutral

 

Composition:

The clothing items in this outfit are all cabi Fall 2015, and no longer available. Contact me if you must have it and I may be able to direct you to a stylist who has it. I offer ways to substitute from you own closet or alternatives below. I normally will make the POW a currently available item, but my blog launched later than planned.

  • Jacket: Shown is the Fall 2015 cabi media jacket, which is now unavailable. From your own closet, you can substitute a cropped jacket and/or a flashy jacket in a shorter style. Or, if you want to purchase, here are a few other cropped jackets to consider instead:
  • Blouse: This striking and flattering wonder is also a cabi Fall 2015 piece, and no longer available for order. For this look, you can use a blouse with sleeves or not. Look for bright feminine blouses in your closet or here are some current season cabi pieces to consider:
    • Vita Blouse: The draped front and cutout back are similar to the amazing fall Diamond Blouse, so I know this blouse will be faltering and (when the jacket is off) sexy
    • Plaza Top: This one has great colors and a longer hem for when you are rocking leggings to work
    • Isla Cami:  For a bright animal-inspired print with button details, go no further
    • Blossom top: Like the Vita Blouse, this will give you the striking pop of color you see in the Amour blouse I am modeling
  • Skirt: Another Fall 2015 cabi piece, this flattering skirt can be exchanged for a neutral pencil skirt. If you are looking for something new, consider:
    • Lido Skirt: From the cabi Spring 2016 collection, this gives you a neutral navy pencil skirt with a tiered hem for a bit of added style (and it has pockets!!!)
    • Ponte Pencil Skirt: Ann Taylor has some great pencil skirts, including this slimming ponte one
    • Dobby Pencil Skirt: Another Ann Taylor pencil skirt in a more sophisticated fabric than the ponte
  • Shoes: Sorry, yes, another unavailable item. These are from Target last year, I think. But, Target has some good substitutes:
    • Orianna pumps: For the ankle strap look, from Sam & Libby, in faux lizard
    • Ankle Strap Stiletto Pumps: For something on the sexy side, from the Journee Collection
    • I also like the Head Role: Interesting lattice work for a funky and professional look, from the A2 Aerosole collection
  • Earrings: I kept it simple with gunmetal gray hoops. I bet you can find something similar easily. These were from Charming Charlie a few years ago.

 

 

Want an outfits that follows the same rules, but with spring pieces? Consider the cabi Spring 2016 Piazza Jacket, Blossom top, and Lido Skirt, with Wingback shoes by Aerosole, and the Inspire Bracelet and the Pavé Triangle Ear Jacket from Stella & Dot.