(Trench coat from Banana Republic Factory - similar here, Old color block shirt from Forever 21 - similar here, Necklace from J.Crew Factory, Heels from Banana Republic Factory - similar here, Pencil skirt from J.Crew - solid color pencil skirt similar here, Gold Bold watch from Movado, Selma Satchel from Michael Kors)
FYI - J.Crew is having 25% off all styles and 30% off final sale items in store and online... go get 'em with code TGIFALL.
When I first started working, I didn't want to be the type of person to just throw on a solid button up, black pants, black flats, and call it a day. With that thought, I built up my work wardrobe over time: patterned/solid button down shirts with cute neck tie collars, pencil skirts with interesting designs and bright colors, classy statement necklaces, basic waist length cardigans, J.Crew school boy blazers, and different colored pumps.
Today, I'm featuring a couple of staple pieces I acquired these past couple of months. I'm also going to show how to wear/make color-block and patterns work with each other.
The Selma Satchel by Michael Kors has become one of my staples inside and outside of work. I thought the luggage color would be the best choice considering it matches most of the other colors in my wardrobe. Also, the purse is big enough to store everything you need. The shape gives the purse a structured, classy touch that is great for the professional environment. I am considering purchasing the black version, but I'm not too pressed on it right now.
Another work staple I purchased back in the spring was this Banana Republic Factory trench coat. I have to admit, I bought this coat out of sheer desperation - I just wanted a trench coat asap. I needed a trench coat that was a reasonable price, petite sized, single breasted, and belted. When I saw this hanging on the rack, it fit the bill. Now when I look back, I wish I hadn't gone through with the slightly impulsive buy (people, learn from me!). I could have invested in a caramel color, high quality trench coat that still had all my requirements I wanted *ahem*Burberry*ahem*, but it is what it is. It protects me from the rain, keeps me warm during those slight chilly days, and matches my clothes!
Have you ever bought a piece of clothing that you wanted to wear every week, but you knew you couldn't because everyone would notice? This applies to this J.Crew pencil skirt. The design is so intricate, but not to the point that it's overwhelming. People usually wear one item that's color-blocked with another item that's a solid. Be adventurous and take it up a notch! Consider wearing pattern on pattern.
So, why does this outfit work? Yes, color blocking is a pattern. The shirt has a big pattern. In contrast, the skirt has a small pattern. Because the two patterns are spaced throughout the outfit and are different sizes/densities, the outfit is balanced. Also, because both patterns are structured in a linear way, they compliment each other. Not all patterns can mesh that well and that easily though. I'll delve into this concept in a future post (hopefully soon)!
Another thing to look at is the colors of the pattern. For example, you can see pink, green, and a bit of black in the skirt. Out of these colors, I chose black to color block with. Why? Black, white, and caramel (all shades associated with these colors) are neutral tones. These colors provide a basic balance to any outfit, meaning that if you were to pair off these neutrals with any outfit, they would match and work.
The pink and green adds a pop of color to the monochrome side of the outfit. This makes the whole look balanced. The pink and green are subtle enough that they don't take over the outfit. Too much of either would make the outfit too loud, gaudy, and matchy-matchy, unless you're going for that. Because this is a work outfit, I wanted something professional and sophisticated. I hope you can agree that this outfit did come out that way!
And last, but not least, is this amazing Movado Bold gold watch. I have been lusting over this beautiful thing for the past two years and finally purchased it. When I bought this watch, it was more than just buying something that looked gorgeous. I wanted to invest in something that was high quality, classy, timeless, and that had a great warranty. Because this watch is minimalistic, it looks clean and sleek. It's modern, professional, and chic. Having something so versatile is important for me, especially since I have many different styles.
What are your staple pieces in your work wardrobe? What about staples in your casual wardrobe? I'd love to know!
Thanks for reading! Until next time <3
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