Funny story. I’m on the elevator at work with another woman and I commented on how cute her outfit was thinking I might steal it for the blog. After I get back to the office I get an email that starts with, “I think I just met you on the elevator….” (Thousands of people work in our building.) Turns out, she recognized me from the Women’s Energy Network and I ended up telling her I loved her outfit and she let her three year old take a picture of it so I could use it today! Don’t you love that? And y’all, she is brand new to town and has a three year old, two year old, and nine month old – and how cute is she!?!?!
She makes this corporate casual outfit fresh and modern for the workplace instead of dowdy which is what some folks worry about with cardigans.
1. Trousers
I love her idea of pairing a gray (taupe would work equally well) trouser with a darker neutral cardigan and a bright blouse – these pants can be worn anywhere. Of the three pieces in this outfit, spend your money here. Buy a nice pair of trousers in several neutral colors. You can top them with different blazers, sweaters, or blouses, as long as you have a few pair of well fitting pants.
Here’s a simple gray pair from Ann Taylor that run $98.
Same price for these lighter colored ones at Banana Republic.
2. Cardigan
Simple, classic, and solid is the way to go.
This one at Macy’s only runs $35 and is lightweight which makes it perfect for layering (comes in every color). (Charter Club also has one there for $30 – I love cashmere, but I left out the pricey options on these.)
If you want to add interest, you can do it with buttons or this tone on tone jacquard pattern which runs $79 from Talbots.
3. Patterned blouse
Think spring. If you’re going with such neutrals for trousers and a top layer, go bold here. With color or pattern or fabric or all of the above. Now I couldn’t find a blouse with that adorable drawstring, if you can, then bonus points for you! This floral pattern from Banana Republic is muted but the colors are bright and springy:
While this isn’t floral or paisley pattern, I love these big bold colored stripes in a perfect spring blouse from The Limited. This is $59 but they’re running a sale where you buy one get one free on blouses – President’s weekend is a great time to shop all these locations for deals.
For shoes, the key is a simple neutral taupe or gray high heel. Any of the heels from my retro Fashion Friday would work here.
Do you have an ensemble that is your go-to business meeting outfit? I’d love to see it. I’m planning a corporate meeting “steal this look,” so shoot me a photo if you have any great ideas. Until then, stay warm friends, it’s cold out there.
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