Two Ways: Bright Colorblock Shell

Top: Colorblock Shell ($49 + 30%-off)

From Left, Earrings: Coral Clip Earrings ($26) Belt: Skinny Suede Belt ($17) Bag: Tomi Leather Tote ($228) Shoes: Ecco Oswando Patent Flats ($130) Sweater: Cashmere Open Front Cardi ($90) Jeans: Dojo Trouser Jean ($169)

From Right, Sunglasses: Ray Ban Aviators ($145)  Bag: Claire Vivier Clutch ($156) Shoes: Tory Burch Pacey Sandal ($265) Earrings: Lisa Stewart Hammered Earrings ($80) Jeans: Paige Skyline Jeans ($189)

For Casual Friday. I don’t usually post two outfits that feature jeans, but walking around the Hill for the first few days of this recess, I am reminded how much help some professional women need with casual workplace style.  Just grabbing a pair of ballet flats, some skinnies and a crewneck sweater may be okay, but don’t we all want to do better than just okay?

This outfit layers a bright silk shell under a simple open cardigan (the cardi also comes in plus size).  You’ll want to belt it at your natural waist to give it shape and structure.  The simple act of adding a belt, or layering on a jacket or sweater can really lift the look.

I added the cognac bag for a bit of contrast.  If you’re looking for a less expansive tote, I love this bucket tote with buckle detail for under-$75.  It also comes in pale grey and black. Navy flats and a pair of coral drops (to pull in the blouse) complete the look.

For the hair, I would wear it half-up with a tortoise clip.  For the makeup, I would wear a taupe eye, with hint of coral gloss and a good coat of black mascara.

For a Vacation.  I was really hoping to sneak down to Phoenix for some slightly warmer weather and a visit with some old friends soon, unfortunately, I pulled jury duty this month.  Ugh.  Civic duty and all that.  So now I have warm weather on the brain, and all I can think about is heading out to dinner in this bright but not too bright top and a pair of sandals.  

These earrings have just a hint of turquoise to pair with the coral and blush in the blouse.  If you need an under-$25 pair, I like this pair from Tryst.  

A pair of Ray Ban aviators, a chic foldover clutch and a pair of easy, yet glamorous sandals complete the look.  For less pricey alternatives, check out this clutch and these short wedge sandals.  As for the jeans, I am loving the pair of Paige Skylines I picked up at the Piperlime sale, they are so comfortable and fit so well.

For the hair, I would wear it down and loose with some texturizing spray.  For the makeup, I would try a coral nail polish (Essie Canyon Coral  or try one of the polishes from the Birchbox Blogger Collection ft. yours truly) with a pinky-coral lip and black eyeliner.