Two Ways: Striped Peplum Top

Shirt: Panna Nyos Peplum Top ($140)

From Left, Ring: Mosaic Tile Ring ($35) Belt: Rochas Skinny Belt ($138) Bag: Winged Pushlock Tote ($76) Shoe: Sigerson Morrison High Heel Sandals ($350) Necklace: Lotus Bib Necklace ($238) Pants: Reiss Straight Leg Pants ($180)

From Right, Earrings: Silver Bolt Earrings ($78) Sunglasses: Ray Ban Wayfarers ($150) Bracelet: Spike Bracelet (sold out, similar) Bag: Warehouse Padlock Bag ($67) Shoes: Vera Wang Flats ($175) Jacket: Merona Trench ($50) Scarf: Sarti Scarf ($395) Jeans: Paige Skyline Denim ($189)

For Dinner with Friends.  Since it’s recess here on Capitol Hill, I thought we would skip the traditional work outfit.  Though, if you’re curious what it would be, how about a navy pencil skirt and a slightly-cropped citron cardigan?

This outfit combines my current-favorite spring color, pale pink, with the navy striped top for a casual but chic look.  (You could also wear red pants, but it felt a bit “hello, sailor” to me.)  I added a belt to emphasize the waist (cheaper version, here), and a grey block heel sandal.

I also loved this LK Bennett shoe, but if you’re looking for something less expensive, try these Nine West sandals.

This navy tote is serviceable knock-off of the Philip Lim Pashli Satchel, but at a much sweeter price.

As for the jewelry, I adore the punchy pink color in this inexpensive ring.  It’s such a fun spring accessory.  And the open-work on this necklace gives you a strong piece without being too heavy.  I also liked this $50 half-moon necklace, and this filigree bib.  But you could choose something in a color like this baby pink necklace from Guess.

For the hair, I would wear it up in a low twist.  For the makeup, I would choose a darker pink lip gloss and bright blush.

For Saturday Shopping.  My springtime uniform for casual days basically consists of a striped top, denim, flats, a scarf and a trench.  It’s easy, it’s chic and it’s comfortable.

This look brings a bold red trench to the party, but you could easily choose another color.  I adore this deep green trench from ASOS, though I would probably switch out the buttons for a lighter-colored tortoise.

I chose this ivory scarf because it’s a good basic (I own the much cheaper Love Quotes version), but you could also try a print.  This teal scarf would look great with the green trench linked to above, or keep the red coat and try this navy and white print scarf.

I used silver jewelry for this outfit to match the padlock on the bag.  This isn’t essential, it just felt like the best option.  These bolt hoops are very cool, and I love the stacked spike bracelet.  Sadly, it’s sold out.  Instead, try this similar bangle from Karmaloop or stack up these House of Harlow bracelets.

Lastly, I chose navy flats because I think they’re a good basic when wearing skinny denim.  If you want a cheaper pair, give these Bloch ballet flats a try.  You could also pair this outfit with tan or gold flats.

For the makeup, I’d go with a bold red nail.  I like Essie Lollipop.  I’d also wear black liner and a sheer red tint.  For the hair, a bouncy ponytail or a fishtail braid would be a good choice.