Throughout the week, I share work fashion inspiration on my Instagram stories. Recently, a simple, all grey look from lawyer and blogger Kim Le caught my eye. And with so many positive reader messages flowing in about this easy work look, I decided to recreate it.
Crewneck Sweater. J.Crew’s Margot merino sweater is perfect for spring. It’s lightweight, comfortable and comes in a variety of colors. If a long sleeve sweater doesn’t strike you as perfect for spring, J.Crew also offers a short-sleeve version in silk-blend.
Pencil Skirt. A sleek pencil skirt in a soft neutral is a great addition to any wardrobe. This No. 2 Pencil Skirt from J.Crew also comes in petite and tall sizes. I also like this pencil skirt from White House Black Market, which has a chic pleated waistband.
Sweater Jacket. I added the long Juliette collarless sweater coat because I own one, and I love it. This ‘coatigan’ is the perfect mix of relaxed and professional. I layer it over casual and business pieces on days when I want a little extra warmth.
Coatigans are popular for spring. Banana Republic has a collared one on offer. This long, camel one from Mango is also a great option. Or jazz up your wardrobe with this $50 olive number from QVC.
Jewelry. I don’t wear much silver jewelry, but several of you have asked to see more of it here. I chose this simple, delicate chain bracelet because it could find a home in any wardrobe. You can wear it solo or layer it with other bracelets, like this silver ball chain Lagos bracelet. The bracelet is also available in yellow-tone metal.
The earrings are from AllSaints, and you get both this slim hoop and a textured stud earring. AllSaints makes several stylish pairs of earrings, the majority of which come in your choice of silver or gold tone metals.
Handbag. I’ve been singing the praises of this Kate Spade Margaux Leather Satchel for some time. The styling is minimal but interesting. The bag has good organization, including a center pocket that separates the bag into sections.
Shoes. Charles David shoes are some of the most comfortable heels that I’ve ever owned. These sensible, suede pumps are a chic option for spring and summer. They’re also affordably priced at under-$100.
These ankle strap heels from Charles David also caught my eye. These block heels give you the look of a simple pump with more stability for walking and standing.
“Nude” heels for women of color are notoriously hard to find. I did locate these darker toned Aldo heels and these Calvin Klein heels. Sam Edelman’s hazelnut shade is also worth a look. And these Ralph Lauren helps in ‘polo tan’ also caught my eye.
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Banana Republic was offering heels as part of their “true hues” collection in a variety of shades of nude – from ivory to a deep chocolate brown.
Rebecca Allen is a brand that has 5 shade ranges for “nude for you”. The brand’s namesake owner is a woman of color whose mission statement includes the following:
“As a black woman working in finance I always wanted to look professional without sacrificing clean, sophisticated style. I love color, but I never wore it because I couldn’t find the perfect nude pump to complete my outfits.
Frustrated by the lack of options, I scoured swatches and borrowed my friends’ feet to find five nude shades to complement women from dark to light, particularly all my brown ladies. You can, of course, wear any and all shades you choose!”
Jen
PS – I also love how they start their nude range with the darkest colors first. Ironically, I am their lightest shade (and have had the pumps for 2 years and they have held up) – but I love that it flips the script to put darker skin tones first.
Love the Juliette Coatigan. I have one and am planning 2nd color. Holds shape, drapes well, and pulls together everything from stretch pants to a silk blouse. Good recommendation.