Foundations: A Classic Work Look

The world has changed so much since 2020. The woman who wore suits and dresses to work every day feels like a foreigner, instead of a past version of myself. Most days, I find myself in denim. Many of you are also in this situation, but not all.

Some of you still dress for this past world, professionally strolling through the halls of government, law and corporate America. And you deserve a little love, so here is a combo that is just as at home in a C-Suite as it is in a casual workplace.

At one time, this blog was heavily populated by Ann Taylor.  If you have a “real” job, they are still one of the few retailers with longer hemlines, sleek cuts, and classic styles.  So this outfit starts at Ann Taylor.

The Foundation // A pencil skirt is a professional wardrobe classic.  This seamed pencil skirt in seasonless stretch is one of my favorites.  It also comes in petite and tall.  Plus-size?  Talbot’s runs up to 3X with their Easy Travel Skirt.

I love a summer sweater, but it’s not right for every climate.  Luckily, AT has this short sleeved sweater for a more versatile summer look that transitions easily into other seasons.  This one has a chunkier knit and comes in eight colors.  Looking for a smoother weave?  J.Crew has you covered.

This look is one that you can wear to any professional or casual office with the right layering and styling.  So let’s get started.

Look No. One // Navy and black is one of my favorite color combinations.  Long thought to be off limits, the combination is actually sleek and elegant.  For this look, I layered on a lighter blue-grey blazer from Open Edit.  This jacket is a slightly oversized option, so if you want something more fitted, this Kasper blazer is worth a look.

Due to the dark button on the blazer, you can layer in darker accessories.  I chose these sleek d’Orsay heels from Dolce Vita.  The shape is unique, the look professional, and the 2.9″ heel gives enough lift without being too high.  They come in sizes 5-12.  Need a flat?  Try these affordable Journee flats.

I am in love with these Veronica Beard Dash bags.  They are so elegant.  Gorgeous.  This bag was the perfect pairing for a professional outfit.  Need something more affordable?  This Kate Spade bag is worth a look.

To finish out the look, I added these versatile two-tone hoops.  Also, to brighten the look, a gorgeous red lip is called for.  This Gucci Rosso Ancora lipstick is phenomenal if you don’t want bright red, but a deeper red.

Look No. Two // For another work look, try layering a short sleeve button up underneath the sweater.  I chose this Land’s End shirt because it has a smooth front and won’t create extra bulk under the sweater.  It also comes in petite, tall and plus for under-$20.  If this look feels a little boring for you, try a pale blue or striped shirt.  Or look for a white shirt with a more dramatic bib collar, which is very on trend right now.

The necklace is meant to be worn under the collar as a small pop of color.  I liked this red link necklace because it has a very minimalist look to it.  If you don’t want to add color, try this gold curved necklace.  For the earrings, I chose this pair of hoops that can be worn together if you have two piercings or separately.  Both are fantastic.

To complete the outfit, I added these uber professional Mary Jane flat from Stuart Weitzman.  They’re stunning.  For a less pricey pair, try this Marc Fisher pair.  Lastly, this Mango bucket bag lightens the look with a summery vibe and a lighter color palette.  The price is fantastic for such a smart bag.

To style this look, I’m wearing my hair up.  I want the layered look and the necklace to have punch, so wearing my hair up would define the look.  I’m also going to spend a little time sculpting my jaw line with bronzer or contour.  Learn how in this video.

Look No. Three // For a more casual work look, I wanted to add some pieces that weren’t as dressy.  My current shoe of choice is a suede sneaker, so I added this misty green Gola pair.  If you want a colorful sneaker, Gola has a lot of wonderful, unique color options.  Dolce Vita also has some great colors.

I wanted a sunwashed denim jacket because it felt very relaxed in this light denim.  This Land’s End jacket is a nice option.  Old Navy also has a great choice that comes sized up to 3x.  

The bag in a deep green plays well with the mist green of the shoes.  I also like the size of this Madewell crossbody — not too big, not too small.  I love the wide strap for comfort.  

Add to this look a dramatic coin ring.  These styles were very popular when I was a kid, and they’re making a bit of a comeback.  This choice has a $2 lira coin.  This sparrow ring is also a nice option.  but, truly, the best place to find these rings is in antique shops and your mom’s jewelry box.

Lastly, I picked these sunglasses because I wanted something that said summer.  I own these Quay tortoise aviators and they’re a very relaxed, fun option.  They’re a little bit big, but not too big.

For the styling, I would wear my hair down and loose.  I would also make sure to put a pop of pink on my cheeks.  

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