Two Ways: Ivory Army-Style Blouse

Top: Blythe Silk Blouse (J.CREW, $110)

From Left, Tights: DKNY Fishnets ($15) Shoes: Corso Como Del Pump ($129) Earrings: Gorjana Laurel Hoops ($51) Bracelet: Remsey Bracelet ($100) Bag: Christopher Kon Satchel ($200) Sweater: Michael Kors Cashmere Sweater ($313) Skirt: No. 2 Pencil Skirt ($60)

From Right, Necklace: Stephan & Co. Stone Necklace ($24) Bag: Kelsey Dagger Bailey Tote ($199) Shoes: Nine West Speakup Flat ($69) Coat: First Snowfall Coat ($250) Sweater: Branitta Knit Pullover ($243) Jeans: Denim Trouser ($90)

For the Office.  There has been a lot of black on this blog as of late, so I thought it was time for a bit of color. For this outfit, I used the silk shirt as a base for an outfit my friend K referred to as “slightly glam secretary.”  I’m going to choose to believe that was a positive comment.

The sweater is a gorgeous burnt orange, but way out of my price range.  This Caslon boatneck sweater with buttoned sleeves is very cute and just $60.  I preferred the heather camel skirt, but if you would like to go darker, this sleek dark brown number from Dorothy Perkins is $27.

Instead of wearing regular nylons, I chose a pair of DKNY microfishnets.  They can smooth out the look of the leg, and add a bit of sex appeal, but not too much.  I also chose these Corso Como pumps in chocolate brown, but I think I would prefer these grey and brown toe cap Mary Janes.

I wanted to add a little bit more color, so I chose this green Amrita Singh bracelet and a green satchel.  Since I wrote this post, however, I’ve changed my mind about the green bag.  If you’re going to spend $200 on this satchel from a brand I know nothing about, you should probably just spend the extra $58 on a Dooney that look nearly identical and you know will last.  And if you need a cheaper bracelet, this one from Macy’s is $58.

For the hair, I would try a low side bun.  A high bun would play too much into the school teacher aesthetic, and down might look too undone.  For the makeup, I would wear a chocolate brown gel eyeliner and a hint of berry lip tint. 

For Casual Friday.  I really like this outfit.  The sweater plays with proportions and the colors are perfect for adding a jolt to late winter or early spring, which I’m promised is happening soon.  I hope.

To style the outfit, button the top button of the blouse and wear the berry-colored sweater over the top.  Then, add the necklace.  If you don’t think the proportions will work for you, I have some other options.  This striped sweater with a raspberry-colored yoke would look pretty fabulous.  And if you like cardigans, this grape-colored one could be for you.

The trouser jeans are a great option for casual Friday.  I prefer them to skinny jeans just because they look more like regular pants.  As for favorite brands, I like 7 for All Mankind Dojos and Citizens of Humanity Dita Jeans.

I added this coat because I love how it combines casual and cool.  The shape, the pockets, the knit lining, it’s fab.  If you’re looking for a simpler, more professional grey coat, try this one for $89.

As for the rest of the accessories, I’ve been on a real navy flats kick recently.  I just like the way they look with denim, and I’m thinking I might buy this suede pair.  And I adore this snakeskin handbag.  To me, it’s vaguely reminiscent of a Nancy Gonzales bag.  If you need something under-$100, this bag is similar but has a black trim.

For the hair, I would wear it up in a French twist or Gibson roll, something sleek.  For the makeup, I would use a rosy pink blush and a good coat of black eyeliner.