Last week, we discussed moving back into wearing real clothing.  Sure, those leggings are comfortable, but as employer’s prepare to end or lessen remote work, we need to be prepared to wear waistbands and real shoes again.  This outfit is a great choice for fall, winter, or spring.  It’s stylish and modern, but still simple.

I’ve shown versions of this outfit before — a chambray shirt with black denim — and it continues to be one of my favorites.  It looks relaxed, but put together.  Wear it now on Zoom, and on casual Friday when you head back to the office.

You may already have many of these pieces.  If not, let’s talk suggestions.

Shirt // J.Crew, Madewell, and Old Navy almost always have a versatile, affordable chambray blouse on sale.  This light wash blouse comes from J.Crew Factory, runs petite and plus sizes, and is an affordable option.  For a darker wash, try this top from Draper James.  This short-sleeve, tie-front top from NYDJ is also worth a look.

Jeans // These look like a cool, ripped knee skinny jean…but they’re not!  These Hue ripped knee denim leggings are pull-on, stretchy, and utterly comfortable.  They also come in white and a medium blue wash.

Free People has a nice pair of pull-on flare legs, and NYDJ has a pull-on straight leg in the perfect dark wash.  Plus-size?  NYDJ and Jag Jeans have you covered.

If you’re not ready for denim (and who is?), a pull-on jean can help you get over the initial shock.  A number of brands are making pull-on jeans right now, so whatever style you’re looking for is available.  To fake that denim look, search for styles with pockets and button-accent waist bands.

Jacket // Trench coats are on order for spring.  They’re classic, and you can throw one on over any outfit and it instantly looks cooler.  This one from H&M was on the blog this morning, and it’s a nice option if you won’t wear a trench every day.  If you need something a bit sturdier, I’ll still recommend the London Fog trench in misses, petite or plus.

Shoes // The model is wearing white sneakers, but with a black jean, I prefer black.  Otherwise, my eyes go directly to the shoes.  These Veja SDU sneakers give me everything I loved about 80s tennis shoes in a modern package.  I also like their black V-10 style.  Or you can go with an actual athletic shoe and choose my favorite Adidas Cloudfoam runners.

Want a non-sneaker?  This is a job for Rothy’s loafers or Madewell’s Frances loafer.

Have wide feet?  Vionic’s Satin Lace Up Sneakers are cool.  If you prefer a loafer, these Naturalizer slip-ons are a good look.

Bag // Can we talk about this bag for a moment?  I bought it the minute I saw it.  I haven’t purchased a new purse during the pandemic, but this one…had.to.have.it.

This Madewell Oversized Shopper is your basic tote bags cooler, younger sister.  The shape is modern, yet functional, and the bag just makes a statement.  Also, the exterior phone pocket will keep you from searching for your phone in the cavernous inside.  Who doesn’t need that feature?

Necklace // Lastly, I added this incredibly cool wax-stamp necklace from Ben Amun.  This is a statement piece you’ll have forever.  But if you want something a bit more understated, this Club Monaco long bar pendant works on everyone.

Styling // I don’t feel great about my body right now.  And, honestly, it still feels weird to be out with people.  So being comfortable in my clothes is so important for keeping my mental health together.  This outfit is stylish and simple, and nothing hurts when you wear it.  To jazz it up a bit, I recommend a red lip or a red nail and a cool pair of $15 sunglasses.

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