Theory Juin-Stay Tee (Nordstrom, $75)

The basic white tee is a staple of any wardrobe.  Some bloggers will argue that a t-shirt is never appropriate for work, but I find that position to be a bit extreme.  Because by the time business-casual Friday rolls around, all I want is to be comfortable, and these three outfits prove that you can be stylish and comfortable when wearing a white tee.

For this post, I chose a scoop neck tee by Theory.  You could certainly go with a v-neck or crewneck if you prefer, but I like the scoop neckline the best.  You also don’t need to drop more than a few dollars on a t-shirt if you don’t want to.  Just make sure that it’s a good heavy knit and not too sheer before you wear it to work.

 Living the Blues

Aqua Girlfriend Blazer (Bloomingdale’s, $88)

J.Brand Cigarette Jeans (ShopBop, $159)

Marc Jacobs Plaque Flat (Nordstrom, $199)

For you lucky ladies who are allowed to wear jeans to work, I present an easy yet stylish outfit” a navy boyfriend jacket, straight-leg denim and red ballet flats.  You could add a belt, long gold necklaces, a chunky bracelet or a printed pump if you want to dress it up. This look is easy and casual without being too casual for work.

Pretty and Polished

Marc by Marc Jacobs Zaire Sweater (Piperlime, $159)

Akris Punto Pleated Dot Skirt (Saks, $695)

I love printed skirts with coordinated cardigans, it’s such a feminine way to dress up on a casual Friday.  This outfit is also lovely for a weekend brunch or a relaxed dinner date.  And I love that the skirt has a cool geometric print that is flirty but not overly girly.

Relaxed but Professional

Kate Spade Faceted Necklace (Nordstrom, $195)

MICHAEL Michael Kors Ponte Knit Skirt (Nordstrom, $70)

I believe Capitol Hill Barbie once said that a pencil skirt, t-shirt and statement necklace was her “summer uniform,” and why not?  The look is effortless and casual but still dressy enough for a professional workspace like a law firm or a Hill office.  And how utterly fabulous is that Kate Spade necklace? Lovesit!

CHS Casual Friday is a new, weekly column discussing how to dress professionally while embracing casual Friday.  After all, just because it’s Friday doesn’t mean your bosses can’t judge you by what you’re wearing.