Career Style: Business Casual Meets Neutrals

Feb 7, 2023

When I’m in a fashion rut — or just staring at a closet full of nothing to wear — I turn to all black.  But my closet (especially postpartum) is beginning to feel like funeral attire.  But this light neutral outfit gives all-black vibes in a breezier package.

I love an outfit where I already own most of the pieces, and if you’ve been following this blog for a minute, you probably own a few of these items too.  So let’s start recreating this Pinterest image.

Sweater // This Juliette sweater from J.Crew is what I usually wear over professional sheath dresses and with wide leg pants on semi-casual Fridays.  It runs a hair big, so while a small will fit, I go for the extra-small so it doesn’t feel like a bathrobe when I belt it.  It’s also on sale right now.  Petite?  Banana Republic has a similar version in petite.

V-Neck // A simple v-neck sweater is a great wardrobe staple.  Banana Republic’s Forever Sweater is currently on deep discount.  I picked up a couple of colors to wear with jeans.

Jeans // I just bought a pair of ivory jeans from Ann Taylor and they don’t quite fit (yet), but I’m very excited to wear them once they do.  I bought them for two reasons: they’re something different for my wardrobe and if I cover the waist band, the trouser style will look like work pants.  Prefer a skinnier option? Try this pair from NYDJ with a slim leg line.  Plus-size?  Give this pair from TJ Maxx a look. Petite?  Try Madewell.

Shoes // I just bought these Linea Paolo flats.  I love them.  But they’re too big, so I am waiting for an exchange.  They’re the perfect mix of rocker chic and trendy basic.  I may actually buy two pair in case I wear the first pair out.

Accessories // This Haven tote from CALPAK is a great bag for under-$200.  It has an internal, removable organizing compartment.  It also comes in faux leather, so you can beat the hell out of it.  And the wide strap and decent drop make it easy to carry without sore shoulders.

For the earrings, I picked these croissant hoops from Quince.  They’re affordable and chic.  These Mejuri ones are a bit smaller, but just as cool.  Add in a pair of discounted Gucci shades and you’re golden.

For the hair, I like this sleek bun.  I like this model bun tutorial.  I recommend having an edge brush to get those flyaway hairs under control.  Plus, a little bit of Pillow Talk lipstick never hurt anyone.

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Casual Fridays, Work

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  1. Emma says:

    I really like this and am tempted to buy the whole thing! I’m also 4,5 months postpartum and wearing a lot of black, but trying to get back into fashion as I head back to work.

  2. K says:

    I wanted to love the Linea Paolo flats so much, but they are just so uncomfortable. They are exactly what I was looking for so it was a sad sad day to send them back.

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