Two Ways: Chambray Madewell Shirt
Nov 15, 2012
Shirt: Perfect Chambray Ex-Boyfriend Shirt ($69.50)
From Left, Belt: Barneys Hip Military Belt ($125) Bag: Brahmin Maggie Hobo ($295) Tights: DKNY Tights ($15) Boots: Boxer Grey Lizard Tall Boot ($350) Necklace: Yochi Montana Necklace ($145) Skirt: Orla Kiely Suiting Skirt ($155)
From Right, Bracelet: Kate Spade et Cetera Idiom Bangle ($48) Bracelet: Renegade Cluster Bangle ($59) Watch: Kors Runway Watch ($250) Bag: Cole Haan Zoe Satchel ($398) Vest: DKNY Flannel Fur Vest ($207) Boots: All Black Tall Boot ($160) Sweater: MANGO ZigZag Cable Sweater ($70) Pants: Vince Riding Pant ($235)
For a Casual Dinner. This is more of an autumn outfit, but I love the look of a belted full skirt with a button down shirt. It’s relaxed and effortless but also incredibly feminine. And I think the combination of the chambray with the mustard skirt makes the outfit just that much more interesting.
I elected to use grey boots and grey tights, but if that doesn’t appeal to you, try chocolate brown tights and boots. I like this belt a lot–the shape is different than what you usually see, and it has interesting detail. I also think that it would look awesome worn over this eggplant sweaterdress from Ralph Lauren ($127).
As for the necklace, well…upon further inspection, I regret putting this necklace in this set. It was a mistake. The necklace is quite a bit “blingier” than it should be. The chunky pewter chain feels right, but the sparkly jewels are all wrong. In retrospect, I would probably select something more like this large bead necklace or deco bib.
For the hair, I would pull it into a curled ponytail or a low Gibson roll. For the makeup, I would wear burgundy polish on my nails and plum blush on my cheeks with a hint of berry gloss on my lips.
For the Train. I’m still on the fur vest thing. Either I will break down and buy it, or continue to add it to my shopping cart and then, repeatedly talk myself out of it. Only time will tell.
Let’s start this discussion by talking about the pants. This season, several retailers and designers are selling skinny ponte pants or riding pants. Some of you will look at these and think “Leggings are not pants,” others will see an alternative to skinny jeans, and both groups will have valid points. I’m not sure which camp I will ultimately fall into, but I purchased a pair from J.CREW ($88) this weekend, and I kind of love them with longer tops to cover my rear view. (They’ve also inspired me to go back to the gym, so I suppose that’s a side benefit.)
I added the faux fur vest and a chunky ivory knit to complete what can only be described as a Park-City-for-Sundance outfit. Add some cool boots, a selection of bracelets and an awesome teal bag, and you have an outfit that’s perfect for weekend trips or hanging out with the family on Thanksgiving Day.
Like the teal bag but want something less expensive? Try this one.
For the hair, I would wear it down in waves. For the makeup, I would choose a nude lipstick with a layer of pink gloss on top, a dusty rose blush and a dark purple nail polish.
Excellent! Gonna dig out my ralph lauren version.
Hi Belle – Would you consider wearing the Pixie pant in black to the office? I work for the DOJ here in DC and have a coworker who swears by wearing these pants even to work. I'd love to know your thoughts. Thanks so much!
I LOVE THAT SECOND OUTFIT!!!
I consider myself firmly in the leggings are not pants camp, but I think this would work. I take it these are thicker than traditional leggings, so you might be able to go a little bit shorter in the top than with traditional leggings (which in my book require full butt coverage plus an inch or two). I think as long as the top goes to about hip height, it's fine.
Ponte knit pants are much thicker do not become sheer over the tush when you bend over making them far more acceptable than traditional leggings.
I recently bought these in burgundy and love them! (don't think they'll make it into the office, but so excited to wear them evenings and weekends!) https://www.loft.com/loft/product/product%3A292671/LOFT-Marisa-Skinny/Marisa-Skinny-Pants-in-Ponte/292671?colorExplode=false&skuId=12657087&catid=catl000014&productPageType=fullPriceProducts&defaultColor=5185
Belle, I love the JCrew pants you posted here. I noticed that there is an exposed zipper on the back and wonder if it is going to seem too trendy in a few years or if you feel it is a subtle enough detail that this piece will endure.
Cute outfits today… I can definitely see myself in these. xoxo Jenny
suggestion: try a consignment shop or even goodwill for a fur vest. they've come into vogue a few times and i found a cute one for under $10!