Two Ways: Banana Republic Print Blouse

Sep 27, 2012

Shirt: Lydia Abstract-Print Blouse (Banana Republic, $80)

From Left, Bag: Marc Jacobs Top Handle Bag ($495), Belt: Express Grey Stretch Belt ($30), Shoe: Ivanka Trump Pinkish Platform ($55), Necklace: Aimee Collar Necklace ($65), Skirt: Reiss Straight Tailored Pencil ($210)

From Right, Earrings: Alexis Bittar Wafer Drops ($150), Bag: Ivanka Trump Dr. Satchel ($150), Shoes: J. Jill Glitter Flat ($40), Scarf: Barney’s Oversized Scarf ($465), Jeans: Citizens Elson Mid-Rise ($178)

Polyvore Set Here.

For the Office.  This outfit is a simple look that could translate into a professional office for less formal days and into a casual setting for more formal days.  Pairing a chic, feminine blouse with a pencil skirt is a quick and easy way to create an outfit that is pulled together without being too done.

When I wear a blouse tucked into a pencil skirt, I often try to pair it with a wide belt just to complete the look.  Here, I used a fairly inexpensive belt from Express.  I like these stretch belts because they’re snug but forgiving. 

If you’re looking to spend a bit less for the skirt, J.Crew has a pencil skirt that comes in both a light and dark grey.  Just wait for the next sale and you can probably pick it up for less than the current price of $118.

For this outfit, I would wear the necklace under the blouse as opposed to laying it on top of the fabric.  This way it just peeks out for another pop of purple.  If you want to try contrasting shades of purple, this lilac necklace is $22.

To complete the look I added a simple grey pump and a teal calf hair bag.  I just love the deep color of the purse, I may have to add it to my “Hopefully Going on Sale” bookmark.  If you want a teal bag for less, Steve Madden has a slightly lighter shade for $60.

For the hair, I would wear it down with a light wave.  For the makeup, I would wear a sheer wine lip color and wine nail polish

For the Weekend.  Over jeans with a scarf is my favorite way to wear collarless blouses.  It’s a great transition look for this in-between weather we’re having.  Which reminds me, I need to take my scarves to the dry cleaner.  What you don’t dry clean your scarves?  Take a close look at one of the ones you wear a regularly, you’ll be horrified by the dinginess.

I chose this cream Barney’s scarf because I saw one in person last weekend and it felt like butter, but five bills is a lot for a scarf, so I’ll be sticking with LoveQuotes.  And how great are these chocolate glitter flats?  I love the color with jeans or even ankle-length trousers.  They also come in black.

The rest of the accessories are fairly neutral.  That tan satchel would be great for work, and the wafer drop earrings are very versatile with resin and just a touch of gold.  If you’d like a similar bag for less, Guess has a tan satchel with cool hardware and clean lines for $108.

For the hair, big surprise, I’d wear it up in a twisted updo.  And for the makeup, I would go with a nude lip and a wine-colored eyeshadow palette, I love this DuWop smoke eye palette. 

Three Ways

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  1. JCREW has a 25% off 150 or more code online and in stores now.

  2. Alice says:

    I love both of these outfits so much! Regarding the “hopefully going on sale” bookmarking, I use hukkster.com and it is amazing. It notifies you when things go on sale or when there are valid coupon codes, taking all the legwork out of checking and re-checking individual sites. I definitely recommend checking it out!

  3. Kate says:

    I would totally wear either of these outfits, especially the one on the right. Thanks as always for the great inspiration!!!

  4. Is anyone else sad that this skirt is triple digits and not wool? A little tear.

  5. anon says:

    I don't know why I think so but this one is exceptionally well done.

  6. Michelle says:

    Awesome post, my sister and I both drooled over these outfits and thought the accessories were just perfect!

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