Be warned, this post is very picture/polyvore board heavy!
Kerry (my sorority big sister!) asks...
"I want so badly to be more fashionable at work - what are some essential items for the fall I should pick up-- any must haves or items that can be made into multiple outfits?"
One reason I love the fall and winters season is that layers make it so easy to remix and reinvent your outfits, where as in the summer, a dress can only be worn so many ways.
There are definitely a few pieces I'd consider fall essentials, and they're great because they'll take you right into winter.
- At least one fitted blazer
- straight leg/skinny dark denim
- Black ankle pants
- A few tops in colorful prints and solids
- Flats
- Cardigans/chunky sweaters
- A few pencil skirts
- A sweater dress
- Boots
- Opaque tights/leggings
- A colorful scarf
- Black pumps
- A few signature pieces of jewelry
Here's a rather messy and unorganized board of items I chose that fit into these categories.
I chose four tops, four cardigans, two blazers, a sweater dress, two skirts, a pair of jeans, a pair of black crops, a scarf, a black pump, and a pair of boots. As you can see, I chose a few bright solids, some neutrals, and colorful prints that would be easy to mix and match. Check out the boards below of some outfit ideas I put together using the pieces above.
The
teal cardigan (above and below) and
colorful floral top (below) are two of my favorite pieces from this collection of items. The cardigan looks cozy and rich, and the top has absolutely endless remixing possibilities!
I threw in this pair of
cropped black pants (above) because they can be worn in so many different ways and situations. Pair with a top, cardigan, and a modest heel like I did above for a work friendly look, tuck them into flat boots for a more casual outfit or throw on some killer stilettos or high heeled boots and a sexy top for a night out on the town. This style of pant should hit right at the ankle and it is so flattering on the leg, especially with a heel.
Boots are such an essential for fall and winter! Worn with a skirt or with jeans or leggings tucked in, they look chic, not to mention they'll keep your legs toasty warm. If you have trouble finding boots like I do because of wide calves, check out retailers like
DUO and
Evans.
I love this style of
shawl collar sweater (above) because of they way they skim your curves but still look fitted. The curved shape of the hem flatters the hips and gives a little coverage in the bum area.
A
black pencil skirt is probably one of the most basic closet staples for the working girl. It never, ever goes out of style and can be worn so many ways. Invest in a good one!
I love special details on an other wise plain top, like the
embellished neckline on this fuchsia one. The detail eliminates the need for a necklaces, so just throw on a bangle and a ring and you're golden. I especially like the cut of this top because it will cinch the smallest part of your waist and skim over the tummy area.
This
boucle pencil skirt is another favorite. All the colors going through it make it super versatile, and it could easily be dressed up or down.
Every woman should have a fitted
blazer in her wardrobe, no matter her size. Throwing on a blazer is the easiest way to make your outfit look pulled together and sophisticated. For me, it's worth spending a bit of extra money on for a really nice one because quality counts here. A blazer that's tailored beautifully and fits you well is one you'll be wearing for seasons to come.
A nice pair of straight or skinny dark denim jeans or jeggings is an absolute essential. If you work in a casual atmosphere or have casual Fridays, the dark denim is work appropriate, and they'll be a staple in your weekend wardrobe.
A sweater dress is a great way to look cute while staying super comfortable. Belted over leggings or tights, this is a great piece for both the office and for casual wear. If the sweater is a thick, short sleeved one like mine, try layering a fitted long sleeved tee underneath for extra warmth. A thin one can easily be topped by a blazer or sweater!
I could make a million more outfit boards but I think you get the idea! The best way to create a wardrobe that can be remixed easily is to shop carefully. Think about the items you already own, and consider if a new piece can be mixed up in at least three different ways. You'll end up with a wardrobe of items that all work together, making it a breeze to get dressed every morning!
