Two Ways: Tippi Sweater

Sweater: Tippi Sweater (J.Crew, $73)

From Left, Bag: Dooney & Bourke Crossbody Satchel ($134) Shoes: Via Spiga Jessica Pump ($198) Pants: Martin Fit Trouser (Most sizes, $59) Necklace: Purple Majesty Necklace ($80)

From Right, Bag: Mirabel Clutch ($66) Shoes: Kate Spade Slingback ($325) Earrings: Filigree Flower Earrings ($50) Skirt: Pleated Green Midi Skirt ($17)

For Casual Monday.  I don’t know if other industries have this, but on the Hill, we have something called casual Monday. Unlike Friday, you can’t wear jeans because your Boss will be around, but we’re not in session, so you don’t need to wear a jacket or dress.  This, in my opinion, is the perfect casual Monday outfit.

The berry-colored sweater plays perfectly with a heavy camel trouser for what remains of the winter.  In the spring, switch it out for a pair of sturdy twill trousers.  But don’t fall into the whole of wearing nude shoes with tan or camel pants.  When dealing with brown, lighter trousers should be worn with darker shoes.  Thus, I added a chocolate brown pump to the look.

The necklace plays up the color palette perfectly and compliments the neckline of the sweater.  For smaller-chested girls, the crewneck is your best friend.  For those of you with a more ample bust, try a v-neck in a similar color.  If you end up in a v-neck, you can wear the same necklace, but I prefer complimentary necklines, so try this similarly-colored pendant instead.

Finish off your look with either a bouncy ponytail or loose waves.  Then, add a hint of berry lip gloss and some pink blush to the apples of your cheeks, and you are all set for casual Monday.

For a Night at the Theatre.  The color of the sweater is great for mixing and matching with other bold colors.  This berry top would look lovely with teal, orange, yellow, red or in this case, green.  The emerald skirt creates a sophisticated color palette that is playful but not too girly.  It’s perfect for a dinner with family, a night at the theatre or a weekend fundraiser.

The gold filigree earrings add to the breezy feel of the look without adding too much weight.  Because the color palette is so bold, I chose to add metallic accessories and forego any added color.  Thus, the gold Kate Spade sandals and the simple, woven gold minaudiere.  

For the hair, I would wear it in a wavy chignon with a dramatic side part and swept bangs.  For the makeup, I’d add a hint of smoky violet shadow, dark purple eyeliner and a light wash of raspberry lip stain.  I’d also add a highlighter to the top of my cheeks and temples for that dewy look.