Two Ways: Navy Cropped Jacket

Jacket: Mango Cotton Cropped Jacket ($99)

From Left, Earrings: Nadri Inside Out Hoops ($48) Bag: Michael Kors Selma Satchel ($398) Tights: Spanx Uptown Tights ($42) Boots: Loeffler Randall Viola Boots ($298) Shirt: H&M Longsleeve Blouse ($25) Skirt: By Malene Birger Pencil Skirt ($158)

From Right, Earrings: Rebecca Minkoff V-Hoops ($38) Ring: Leith Pave Ring ($22) Belt: Carlag Suede Belt ($62) Bag: Zara Office City Bag ($100) Shoes: VS T-Strap Heel ($40) Dress: Topshop Bodycon Midi-Dress ($40)

For the Office. I love black and navy together, so when I saw that Mango paired this jacket with a sheer black dress, I had to recreate that look. Because the top and the sleek skirt are both black, they lengthen the body and create a foundation for the boxy jacket.

I chose the sheer texture top because it creates some lightness and interest when wearing all black.  If you prefer something sleeveless, this J.Crew Petal Top is on final sale.  If you’re plus-size, try this chiffon-front tee.

I’m still wearing my J.Crew pencil skirt from a few years ago, but I hear good things about Malene Birger’s skirts, so that may be where I go to replace it.  Halogen also makes a sleek, good-quality pencil at a wallet-friendly price.  I also like the look of this slightly-below-the-knee WHBM skirt (also in petite).

I picked up these boots at last year’s Shopbop sale.  They’re the perfect height, and very comfortable.  My one complaint is that they are pull-on boots, no zipper.  Need something under-$100?  These Alfani boots are a nice option.

For the hair, I would probably wear it up in a poufy ponytail.  (I always struggle with Step 3, so I need to practice getting it right.)  For the makeup, I like a grey nail polish and a Clinique Black Honey lip.

For the Office. I’m not crazy about the burgundy and black color combination.  For me, burgundy and navy is the better combo.  Similar to the black foundation above, the burgundy creates a nice silhouette for the jacket to complement.  I added the belt to define the waist, but it may not be necessary depending on your figure.

I like this burgundy dress from Topshop.  It is a snugger fit than usual works for the office, but in my experience, if you buy a dress in this shape one size larger, it can be appropriate.  If you’re looking for another style, this sleeveless dress from Target is just $18.  Plus-size? This IGIGI dress is a lovely choice.

Grey pairs nicely with the burgundy and navy combination.  These VS pumps are surprisingly inexpensive and come in a few fall hues.  You could also go with a heeled bootie if you prefer.  And if you need to legwear, I recommend grey tights or a nude micro-fishnet.

I chose silver jewelry to go with the grey accessories.  This inexpensive ring is a knock-off of a much price Vita Fede ring.

For the makeup, I would choose a lightly rosy cheek and a good coat of eyeliner.  (Tom Ford is still my favorite liquid liner; the application is so smooth.)  For the hair, I would probably wear it down with a bit of a wave, or perhaps half-up/half-down.