Pinterest Mondays: Back to Basics

1. Theory Stretch Cotton Shirt ($215) // 2. Blu Bijoux Gold Collar ($34) // 3. Nadri Pave Studs ($80) // 4. J.Crew Bristol Slim Leg Pants ($168) // 5.  Tommy Hilfiger Trench ($92) // 6. Wallis Platform Pump ($52) // 7. Fossil Erin Satchel ($149) // 8. Edward Bess Ultra Slick Lipstick ($32)

One. A fitted cotton shirt is a must-have.  The secret to looking great in a white shirt is tailoring.  I buy one size bigger than I need and then have it cut and sewn to fit.  If you’re looking for a less-expensive version, J.Crew’s Boy Shirt is a good choice.  And you can’t go wrong with a Gap boyfriend-cut oxford shirt.

Two. I like the airiness of this geometric collar necklace.  It would look great under a collared shirt or over a crewneck top.  If you want something a bit closer to the example, try this leaf collar necklace from Blu Bijoux.

Three. I couldn’t tell exactly what these earrings looked like, but they appeared to be large and sparkly.  Want something a bit less shiny?  These inexpensive three-stone studs from Bonnie Jonas should do the trick.

Four. The skinny trouser is great for a casual workplace, but more conservative spaces require a wider leg opening.  If you like the skinny trouser, try the J.Crew Paley pant.  For the rest of us, these slim-cut Bristol trouser above is a good alternative.

Need something cheaper? Try the Crosby Street pant from NY & Co., also in petite and tall.  Plus-size?  Try these Calvin Klein pants.

Five. The original photo needed something extra, so I accessorized it with the pieces I would have chosen from my own wardrobe.  A trench coat completes any outfit.  If you’re looking for a reliable, quality coat in a mid-price range, try London Fog in regular & petite and plus-size.

Six. I like to keep my work heels on the lower side of 4″, both for my comfort and the conservative tastes of my colleagues.  These court shoes from Wallis have a modest platform that brings them in just over 4″.

Want something on the shorter side?  Try these Vince Camuto Desti pumps.  Not feeling the platform?  I’m still loving my Jeffrey Campbell Solitair ankle-strap pumps.

Seven. Nothing pull together a neutral outfit like a red bag.  This Fossil Erin satchel is a simple, functional choice.  I also like this Marc Jacobs top handle satchel.  Also check out this Rebecca Minkoff tote discounted to $99.

Eight. A “nude” lip is a bit severe for me, so I like a muted rose or mauve shade.  This Edward Bess lipstick is one that I lust over but can’t commit to buy.  Instead, try Kate Moss’s Rimmel line in shade 08 (under-$3).