Three Ways: Coral J.Crew Blouse

Wearing coral outside of the winter months is difficult.  But breaking out a summery color on a dreary day can lift your spirits and draw attention. 

Sometimes, when I want to stand out at a party or in a meeting, I’ll break out coral, aqua or yellow.  The parade of black and grey becomes so depressing, that it’s nice to wear something bright.

Blouse: J.CREW Kiev Blouse ($98) Blazer: J.CREW Schoolboy Blazer ($188) Jeans: Citizens Avedon Jean ($160)

Boots: Corso Como Richmond($199)  Bag: Marc Jacobs Natasha Bag ($313)

Rings: BCBG Moonstone Ring ($24), IJA Designs Bar Ring ($50), Maria Black Monocle Ring ($95)

Camel and coral is a great combination.  It’s bright, but it’s still fall appropriate.  Toss on a cognac boot and a skinny jean, and you’re ready for a casual day at the office.

I chose a purple bag, but if you want something more muted, try a chocolate brown bag.  And, while I could have done a necklace, I decided to pile on some simple rings instead. 

As for hair and makeup suggestions, I’d wear neutral makeup with taupe eye-shadow and a lightly-tinted lip.  I’d also wear my hair down, however it falls naturally.

Blouse: J.CREW Kiev Blouse ($98) Skirt: Robert Rodriguez Wool Pencil ($106)  Scarf: Friendly Hunting Scarf ($450)

Shoe: Charlotte Russe Folded Bootie ($30)  Bag: Marc Jacobs Pocketed Tote ($565) Earrings: Monica Vinader Nugget Studs ($103)

Sometimes in the cold weather months, I skip the jacket or the sweater.  I just get tired of being weighed down by layers.  So I’ll toss on a scarf instead.  It keeps the blood in your neck warm, and will keep you reasonably warm indoors. 

Here, I mixed a grey wool pencil with the coral blouse.  I like the marriage of the thick, utilitarian wool and the bright, breezy silk.

Add some booties, matching tights and a basic tote to complete the look.  I also like green and coral together, so I chose an emerald-colored earring.

Blouse: J.CREW Kiev Blouse ($98) Skirt: Hobbs Hinton Skirt ($160)  Cape: Phase Eight Chesterfield Cape ($205)

Tights: Nude Fishnets ($13.50) Shoes: Michael Kors Glitter Patent Pump ($195) Ring: Statement Resin Jewel Ring ($75)  Clutch: Expressions NYC Minaudiere ($56)

I featured a similar look a few months ago, but this is a version updated for the colder months.  I like to mix coral and purple, especially when it’s a deep purple like this one.

To make it winter appropriate, I added nude fishnets and patent pumps.  I like nude fishnets because they’re sexy without getting too crazy.  I also added a resin ring (so modern and cool) and a metallic clutch.  Lastly, to keep warm, this camel cape is perfect for chic evenings out on chilly nights.