Sweater: Tippi Cashmere Crewneck ($188) Jeans: Paige Skyline Skinnies ($189)
Upper Left, Top: See by Chloe Embossed Tie Neck Blouse ($325) Earrings: Hive and Honey Disc Studs ($14) Bracelet: Turquoise & Prehnite Bracelet ($36) Shoes: Steve Madden Heaven Flat ($40)
Right, Jacket: Loose Red Cardigan ($71) Necklace: Aqua Multilayer Necklace ($68) Boots: Sam Edelman Cognac Ankle Boots ($80)
Bottom Left, Scarf: Infinity Knit Scarf (sold out, similar $42) Shoes: Frye Paige Riding Boot ($378) Bracelet: Nest Wooden Bangle ($95)
Many professional women put so much effort into their work attire, that their casual wardrobe suffers. While walking around Capitol Hill during the recess, I was reminded that just because you’re wearing clothes doesn’t mean your wearing an “outfit.” Too many women use casual Fridays as an excuse to throw on a sweater and some jeans and call it a day, but add a few accessories or an extra layer, and you can really give your clothing a lift.
Upper Left. Bright pieces will continue to be popular this spring. This outfit combines a bright fuchsia blouse, a pair of leather flats and a chunky stone bracelet for a colorful casual look. If the bold, almost-neon top isn’t for you, this mauve tie neck might suit you better.
How fantastic is this bracelet? I love the large stones and the rough, faceted stone accent. The bracelet packs a lot of punch for $36. And if you would prefer to keep your feet covered due to the cold weather, try these cognac boots with a short wedge.
To pump up the look, add a pink stain to your lips and a rosy blush to your cheeks. I’d also wear my hair up in a twisted updo.
Right. I love the look of this slouchy, deconstructed sweater jacket. The reddish-rust hue with tan undertones pairs well with the natural-colored sweater.
I added the greenish, faceted necklace to set off the jacket by contrasting it. If this necklace is a bit more than you want to spend, I love this delicate wire necklace with hints of eggplant and chocolate for $29. And if you would prefer a tall boot, this chocolate brown boot with buckle detail would be a great substitute. I would wear the hair down in waves, with a dark brown eyeliner and a taupe nail polish.
Bottom Left. If you’re after a simple, relaxed look, adding a chunky, knit infinity scarf is a great way to keep warm and look chic. This scarf with a hint of faux fur is a bit daring, but if you want a colorful melange like the scarf above, this Missoni scarf (on sale for under-$60) and this one has a hint of metallic with tones of beige and grey.
These Frye riding boots are certainly lust-worthy, if you need a cheaper alternative, this simple pair of grey tall boots is $99 and this pair, with chocolate leather and pale grey fleece accents, is $50. Add a slightly-boho wood bangle and the look is complete. But if almost-$100 is more than you are willing to spend on a bracelet, try this set of three wood bangles for $20.
With a look this simple, I would wear my hair up in a high ponytail with a pair of stone earrings. And I would play up my eyes with a bit of black liner and a generous coat of mascara.
7 comments
M says:
Please do more of these posts!! Please please please
Nina says:
Love this feature!
Mary says:
Echoing M, please do more of these posts!
Great point about how it only takes another piece or 2 to take it up another level. I like these options a lot.
jess says:
Outstanding contribution Belle!!!! Now I feel underdressed and rightfully so. Never thought about it this way because everyone in my office slouches in this area on Friday. This Friday I shall pick it up. Has to help my day! I'm actually looking forward to giving this a try.
Libbi says:
This is SPOT ON! Love each look! Some casual Fridays are better than others for me, but I always try and keep it a little more than just a sweater/top and jeans. Would love to see more posts like this!
Jenny says:
Loved this post. Hope to see more clothes versus outfit features!
DB says:
Love that slouchy red sweater, and I love this new topic!