Pencil Skirt POW: Peek-a-Boo Turquoise Thursday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Add interest to a monotone look by with a trendy peek-a-boo garment, like a cold-shoulder top or a split back sweater

TTT Thursday outfits are Trendy, Transitional, and/or Terrific—in other words my choice. It can be whatever other outfit ideas the garment gave me. It may be something very trendy, transitional, terrific, or something else. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the pencil skirt in general, and the cabi Fall 2016 Sigourney skirt in particular. I’m going with trendy on this one. Two trends, in fact. First, the peek-a-boo trend, where a bit of skin in different places is showing; exemplified by the cold-shoulder tops, the split backs, the cutouts, the crochet back trend, and so on. One great thing about this trend is in many cases peek-a-booing is happening in universally flattering places. Shoulders look great on women of all ages and sizes. So does the the upper back and lower arms. We can all rock this skin!

The second trend is the monotone trend. We saw a lot of the white out trend last year (even posts here and here) and the blackout trend. Now, we are seeing it in a variety of colors. So, why not turquoise? They key to the monotone look is to mix similar colors that are enough different to not look like you are trying to wear the same shade. So, go with a lighter and darker piece. You can also play with patterns and throw on a neutral or two.

 

Tips:

  • When doing the monotone trend:
    • Consider a neutral layer between the colors to provide separation and not look like you are trying too hard
    • Look for colors that are in the same family, but have obvious differences like shade, print, patterns, texture, and fabric
  • Not sure about showing off the skin? Find ways to cover up while rocking the trends, such as a cami under a split back
  • Think about what parts of your body you want to show off and look for pieces that reveal this area
  • Remember, everyone has sexy shoulders
  • Go with single metal jewelry in simpler designs to not detract from the monotone clothes
  • Not sure about the peek-a-boo trend? Try it with a chic classic, like the pencil skirt to soften the trendy edges and add sophistication

 

Outfit Breakdown:

 

 

Related Posts:

  1. Go-To POW: The Versatile Blackout Thursday:  For a trendy yet classic versatile look, choose black pieces with a twist
  2. Destructed White POW: Shady Lace & Rips Saturday: For fun, cool, sophisticated take on the white-out trend, opt for mixing off whites
  3. Plume POW: Whites Out Saturday: Try out the whites trend by mixing various whites in one or more garments, your, shoes, and your accessories

 

 

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 .

 

 

Pencil Skirt POW: Writing a Chic, Comfortable Play Day Saturday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Write your own Saturday style with a pencil skirt, a bright print, and a stylish tee

I have a cute photobomber here

I have a cute photobomber here

Play Day Saturday are clothes for taking your kids to the park, running errands, talking your dog for a walk, shopping, picnicking, traveling, going to a museum or a zoo—out and about or home having fun clothes. These are the clothes you often live the best parts of your life in! The POW (Piece of the Week) is the pencil skirt in general, and the cabi Fall 2016 Sigourney skirt in particular. Once again, I’m offering too version of this outfit, a colder weather one and a warmer weather one. The key to a play day Saturday is mixing comfort and style. The right pencil skirt can be comfortable and stylish. Then just mix that with other comfortable but stylish pieces. This is a great time for a bold print and a fun accessory. I wore a similar top in both outfits, one with short sleeves one with long, to better highlight the seasonal takes. The cooler weather play day outfit far passed its comfort and style test, as I has the perfect play day and wandered around NYC in it (the pictures are taken in Morningside Park)!

Tips:    

  • To add some fun, choose a bold print and mix with neutral basics
  • If you have a busy play day, chose comfortable but enjoyable shoes—like clunky boots with a thick heel or owl flats (whooo doesn’t love owl flats?)
  • Consider adding a striking piece of jewelry, but one in a single metal to keep the focus on your bright print and keep the outfit tone more casual
  • For play days, look for casual and comfortable pencil skirts, like those made from a nice stretchy cotton knit or ponte
  • For a pulled together look, choose a main color and keep most of your pieces in this color
  • For comfort and style, choose a soft tee (long- or short-sleeved) in a stylish cut

Outfit Breakdowns:

Sigourney Skirt Outfit:

 

 

Spring Skirt Outfit:

 

*For all eSBe orders and questions, I recommend my eSBe Stylist, Suzanne Wall Joffrion—her ID is 246131.

hippose.jpg
Win money towards this beatiful jewlery in our April Style Challenge

Win money towards this beatiful jewlery in our April Style Challenge

Getting set up on a buys staircase

Getting set up on a buys staircase

 

Related Posts:

  1. Margherita POW: White Out Over Navy Saturday: Be put together and carefree in your sundress by adding layers and accessories in a variety of whites
  2. Pleated Star POW: Cozy Cabled Rocky Coast Saturday: For a cozy take on a pleated skirt, add comfy pieces like a big cowl-neck sweater and suede boots
  3. Off to the Races Saturday: For an effortless, preppy, horse-race-ready outfit choose modern takes on classic pieces, some mixing of prints, and the sophisticated combination of black and navy—plus a hat!

Pencil Skirt POW: Casual, Chic, and Coxy Tuesday

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Outfit Mission Statement: Mix easy basics and comfortable pieces with your chic pencil skirt for a nice twist on casual

No place like Tuesday outfits are casual, comfy clothes for working from home, working at home, parenting (at home), and anything else where comfort is key and you are home. Although they will work for errands and anything else casual. The POW (Piece of the Week) is the pencil skirt in general, and the cabi Fall 2016 Sigourney skirt in particular. Pencil skirts may give off a certain va va voom, but with a cozy cardigan sweater or plain tee you can dress them down for a fun alternative to a tee shirt (or sweater) and jeans. You can opt for a plain pencil skirt or go fancy and have fun dressing down a lace one, as shown below. Focus on mixing the pencil skirt with comfortable pieces that are forgiving and even loose to balance the pencil skirt, and make sure your feet are comfortable.

I’m showing two outfits here, a cozy winter one for those of you in more northern climes (and may have just gotten snow), and a cooler spring version for those of us getting hotter temperatures. Both follow the same concept, and both can be a fun way of dressing down a pencil skirt.

 

Tips:

  • Choose comfortable tops with a forgiving and even loose cut to balance out the smooth, body hugging pencil skirt 
  • Opt for a fun, but more casual accessory, like an animal print belt or funky necklace 
  • If you have a solid pencil skirt (like the Sigourney skirt), you can mix print for a fun, more whimsical way to dress it down 
  • If you have a fancier pencil skirt, like the blue lace one, go for basics in solid colors to dress down
  • Go for comfortable, practical shoes, such as canvas sneaker or fuzzy boots
  • You can treat the long lean shape of a pencil skirt like leggings or skinny jeans and wear longer, even bulky layers over it, like with leggings and skinny jeans, you’ll end up with a longer, lean line
  • Don’t be afraid to dress the pencil skirt down and take her to the park or running errands—you’ll look great and feel just a bit more sophisticated

 

Outfits:

Sigourney Skirt outfit:

Lace skirt outfit:

 

 

 

 

Related Posts:

  1. Pleated Star POW: Pretty Terrific Geek Chic Thursday Posted September 29, 2016: Mix a pretty skirt with geek pieces for and edgy, feminine geek chic look!
  2. Run Around POW: Muted, Playful Contrasts at Home Tuesday Posted April 26, 2016: Dress down your black skirt in muted tones, with pops of fun and sunshine
  3. Margherita POW: Easy, Breezy Contrasts Tuesday Posted May 10, 2016: For coverage and/or added casualness, wear a contrasting tied tee shirt over your favorite sundres

Or browse the other casual “No Place like Tuesday” outfits and tips!