Monday Outfit: Black and Blue

When the weather turns chilly, wearing all black is tempting.  It’s easy, quick and fairly foolproof.   But it doesn’t take much to turn your all black outfit into something a bit more unique.

The inspiration for this blue and black outfit comes from Kim Le, at the blog Kimlet.  The look mixes a foundation of classic black pieces with a chic blue blazer.  It’s a professional outfit for  days when  a full suit is not required.

Blazer. If you have a basic navy blazer, that will work, but I like the steel blue color of this Elie Tahari blazer.  The lighter blue is a bit offers more of a contrast than the darker navy.  It’s a fresher look.

For something a bit less expensive, this blue-green Topshop blazer, this Anne Klein blazer in deep blue, and this Michael Kors blazer are all good options.  In plus-size, I found this teal-blue Lane Bryant blazer and dusty blue Vince Camuto blazer both caught my eye.

Blouse. A simple v-neck blouse in a flowy shape is a versatile piece for work or weekend.  This Halogen v-neck blouse (also in petite) is a great piece, and comes in at an affordable $59.  If you don’t like to wear long sleeve tops under blazers, try this sleeveless Calvin Klein blouse.

Plus-size shoppers should check out this Vince Camuto blouse.  Tall ladies should give this Banana Republic blouse a look.

Pants. I’ve embraced higher rise pants.  I find them more comfortable, and I like the smoother look.  The high-rise Cameron pant from J.Crew is a nice option if you like stretch.  For something that looks more like a trouser, try these Donna Karan pants with a creased front.  Talbot’s makes a nice pant for plus-size women.

If your office is more traditional, you may want to skip on the skinnier pant.  Ann Taylor has a straight leg pant that’s slim without being skinny.

Accessories. Let’s start with the shoes.  I chose patent leather heels because they’re easier to clean up in inclement weather.  These kitten heels from Talbot’s are a classic.  But I know some of you find low-heels uncomfortable, so these Sam Edelman heels may be a better fit.  Wide feet?  Try these J.Renee pumps.

I’ve shared Matt & Nat’s bags before.  They’re vegan leather bags crafted in sculptural, simple silhouettes that are too chic for words.  I have one, and every time I carry it, without fail, someone asks me who made it.  This Rees satchel is a nice mid-size purse.  If you need a work bag, I own the Kintla bag, and this Parallel bag is a fabulous choice.

I selected a pair of black pearl earrings because they bridge the gap between modern-cool and tradition.  These Splendid pearls have a gorgeous mix of blues and purples.  And the price?  Snap them up before they’re gone.

Not feeling the pearls?  Try these Jennifer Zeuner black enamel hoops.

So the next time you’re standing in front of a closet of nothing to wear, reach for all black, and then spice it up with a blue blazer.  It’s just different enough to be unique, but simple enough to be professional.

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