Casual Friday: A Pretty Ruffled Blouse

Casual Friday attire is where the wheels come off.  From the horror of people who dress too casually, to the co-worker who feels the need to overdress, there are endless opportunities for issues.  I try in vain to forget the day one of my interns wore a bikini top under her sheer white blouse, because changing for her post-work pool party after the bell rang was just too much to ask.

This new feature aims to cover the different interpretations of the word “casual,” and style the same piece for each.

Center: Ruffled Popover Blouse ($69)

I’m still iffy on J.Crew, but I thought this blouse might be a good way to use this gift card in my wallet.  I like the ruffled detail and the versatile dot print.  I’ll let you know if they quality or fit is any better.  For a similar look in a non-J.Crew brand, this Double Zero navy blouse is a good basic and this multi-color Nic + Zoe blouse really pops.

Left: Marc Fisher Tammy Pump ($159) // Skagen Mikkeline Satchel ($295) // Melissa Joy Manning Hoop Earrings ($100) // No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Double-Serge Wool ($120)

Is your boss’s definition of casual decidedly dressed up?  Bring in a bright color to lighten the mood.  This outfit has all the professional pieces you need with a bit of sass.  If you must have a blazer, try this tailor white one from Missguided.

I chose the smokey blue bag for something a bit different.  A cobalt one could also be really nice.

Bottom: Ray Ban Matte Gold Aviator ($165) // Lolly Ella Turquoise Bangle ($26) // Dolce Vita Jasmyn Sandal ($90) // BR Solid Short ($40) // Merona Faux Leather Crossbody ($30)

Need an outfit for the office barbecue?  A pair of colored shorts and a long sleeve shirt–rolled up, of course–is the way to go.  I added a simple set of bangles and an easy sandal to round out the look.  And don’t even get me started on these matte-gold Ray-Bans.  A friend has them, and I am obsessed.  If you don’t like lace-up sandals, try a huarache.

Right: AG Ballad Mid-Rise Bootcut ($89) // Cavallari Cadence Flat ($119) // Dorothy Perkins Double Zip Satchel ($35) // Rebecca Minkoff Pearl Plate Earrings ($32)

If your office dress code permits jeans, white or colored denim is a great choice for summer.  But if you choose to wear white, skinny may not be your best option.  These slick bootcut jeans are a good option.  You can also go for a wider leg jean, like these AG Lana jeans.  And as always when wearing summer neutrals, a colored flat shoe just brings it all together.