Two Ways: Drape Neck Blouse

From Left, Earrings: Gorjana Chloe Stud ($35) Ring: Set in Stone Ring ($54) Bag: Melie Bianco Teal Tote ($84) Shoes: Ann Marino Circle Pumps ($25) Sweater: Isabel Marant Oversized Cardigan ($501) Pants: Apt. 9 Curvy Fit Trousers ($28)

From Right, Hat: Repose Beanie ($20) Scarf: Isabel Snake Print Scarf ($69) Earrings: Fafelina Drop Earrings ($19) Bag: Franco Sarto Dixon Satchel ($64) Shoes: Loeffler Randall Mignon Flats ($103) Jacket: Mango Leather Perfecto Jacket ($270) Jeans: Citizens Amber Bootcut ($64)

For Casual Monday. Last week, someone asked me if she could wear an oversized cardigan to the office.  Honestly, it depends on the size, shape and quality of the cardigan.  If it’s in good condition, has some structure and isn’t too oversized, you can wear it like a casual jacket (depending on the formality of your workplace).  This Isabel Marant cardigan has a warm cozy feel, and looks stylish when paired with professional separates.

If you’re not feeling the oversized cardigan, try a drape cardigan, like this grey one one.  Remove the flimsy cloth belt and replace it with stretchy or embossed leather belt.  Plus size? Try this cardigan.

With trousers, you want to wear a pointed toe shoe to lengthen the leg.  I chose these simple pumps because they were inexpensive and chic, but if you want something a little sturdier, these t-straps are nice too.

For the rest of the accessories, I chose a teal bag with fun details for under-$100.  If you’re not feeling teal, this grey satchel is also nice. Add simple stud earrings and a statement ring to tie all of the aubergine pieces together, and you’re all set.

Because the outfit is a bit more casual, you should balance it out by having a hairstyle that is a bit more “done.”  No weak Meredith Grey-esque ponytails, please.  Instead, try a twisted updo or a nice, teased and curled ponytail.  As for the makeup, I would breakout the Black Honey lipstick and the black eyeliner.

For the Weekend.  Truth be told, this outfit is probably better suited to Fall weather.  But you could also wear it during the not-quite-warm but not winter weeks of March. 

This distressed leather jacket pairs well with the soft color and feel of the draped blouse. It’s tough to find well-made leather jackets for under-$250.  So if you’re looking for an edgier look at a sweeter price, try a knit moto jacket instead.

I chose a bootcut jean to balance out the leg and the weight of the blouse.  This jean is a great price, but is sold out in most sizes.  Try the Joe’s Icon Jean or the AG Angel Jean (a Belle Favorite).  If you’re plus size, a friend of mine swears by Lucky jeans and James jeans.

The accessories include a pointed toe navy flat, a pair of cool earrings and simple brown satchel.  If you’re not crazy about croco-embossed leather, try this cool tote from Loehmann’s.

I also added a cool scarf (which you can wear or not thanks to the drape on the blouse) and a skull cap, knit hat.  If you’re looking to stock up on sale items for next winter, scarves, gloves and hats are where you should be looking.  There are a lot of great accessories on sale right now.

For the makeup, try using a deep purple eyeshadow and an angle brush to line your eyes and then smudge it out.  For the hair, wear it down and with a bit of wavy texture.  Try Oribe texturizing spray to give it added zing.