Momma got new shoes!! I’ve always loved the look of leopard shoes- and I’ve had this pair of ballet flats (on left) for years. But now I think a pointy toe might be a more current style. So… off I went to my favorite store Nordstrom Rack (I actually went online) and voila, there were the perfect shoe for me. They were inexpensive ($50), low heel, and so on trend with the d’Orsay style and cute print.
In my before look I am wearing a black t shirt under this cute cream blazer. Are you sick of black and white yet? I’m clearly not!!
The problems with this outfit are that the neckline is too high (gotta show a little skin ladies!) and the blazer tied in front is awkward. My straight leg jeans and round toe flats also date the look.
Switching out the tee shirt for this cute faux silk shirt (with gorgeous detailing- see photo below) and opening up the blazer and rolling the sleeves make for a more stylish outfit. The pointy toed leopard flats complete the look.
Some of you may know that I work part time- and on days when I am meeting with clients I like to dress more professional.
To me, this is the hardest outfit to put together- and I’ll admit, I stood in my closet this morning and tried on lots of different looks.
At first I chose plain black pants and a white button down shirt- but personally, I think that looks a bit like a waiter’s uniform.
I then opted for a black shirt with a cream Chanel inspired blazer over it- this jacket is a classic piece- and in my opinion- a must have piece for every gal’s wardrobe! It works great professionally, but is also cute paired with jeans- as seen here.
To add a little spunk, I chose my leopard flats. It’s a fun mix of patterns- and since I’ll be on my feet all day, flats are perfect.
It’s a pretty typical outfit for me. I like sticking to neutral colors and classic looks- it makes me feel comfortable and that’s important!
I bought this blazer years ago- and it has been one of my all time favorite pieces! So classic!
Pants: Nordstrom (Vince Camuto), Blazer: White House, Black Market (old), Shoes: Target, Necklace: Gift
I bought these bright pink pants last year- and was a bit nervous about the color, they are so bright!
But it turns out, I love wearing them! Truth be told, I feel a bit like a barbie doll when I do.
They are just so pink- and so bright- and so attention seeking! With that in mind, I figured my top must be a bit subdued- which is why I chose my off white blazer.
I figured a blazer would help my outfit look a bit more professional- and the neutral color is a perfect balance for the bright pants.
Underneath the blazer, I opted for this cute black and white polka dot top- with a cute V neck.
Let me tell you about this top- I bought it at Target (God, I love Target) thinking it was a great piece- but as you can see on the right, paired with the black cropped pants and worn untucked-something didn’t feel right. Part of the problem is the cut- it is a very loose, flowy top- and with these pants the whole outfit is too baggy. A pair of skinny jeans or leggings and it might work.
As for the cropped pants– I say this over and over again- but ladies- please don’t wear cropped pants that end mid-calf. It makes your legs look short! Go for the ankle length- much more flattering!
Back to the ‘after’ picture. Just to add a bit more polish and complete the look, I added a black skinny belt, a statement necklace and a pair of black wedges.
This outfit would be appropriate for work or for a night out on the town (I wore it out to dinner with friends Saturday night).
A close up so you can see the detail of this cute top!
For another crazy before picture- check out this one- where I had color overload!
Don’t be surprised if this becomes a weekly feature.
One thing I like about doing these type of posts is that it shows how versatile your wardrobe can be.
Hopefully it reminds people that by investing in a few good pieces you will able to create more outfits than having a closet full of random things.
Today’s look is based on my favorite dress. I can’t tell you how much I love this dress- and part of the reason is because it is so warm! The long sleeves make all the difference in the world! The cotton is super soft, super stretchy, so it glides over my curves and is not restrictive at all!
In my first look- on the right- the dress is worn plain, paired with these brown boots. In my opinion, this is a little too dull for me. The dress needs a focal point, and the boots are off. Maybe they are too short? Not sure what is wrong exactly.
On the left I have added leggings (to make me even warmer), a black belt and a cute raspberry scarf. My open toe espadrilles finish the look.
Love this bright scarf! I would recommend looking in the mirror and making sure the leggings are even before walking out the door! Mine are a little off! LOL!
For my next look, I’ve removed the scarf and added this cute jersey cotton blazer.
This blazer has proven to be a very versatile piece. Best part is I got it at Khol’s.
Here I have on a grey flannel blazer, tights and boots. A much more wintery look. The bright necklace adds a nice touch of color.
This cute green polka dot cardigan is a both a fun color addition and fun pattern mixing. I’m still not crazy about the boots though.
Here I have paired it with brown- adding a brown belt, boots and purse. Blue and brown are an unusual color combo- but it works. I would skip the ugly grey tights next time!
I’ve chosen this purple open cardigan- it adds interest, texture and another unexpected color. The shoes are a stretch for me… but maybe it you are daring!
Here is another winter version. I’ve decided to turn the dress into a skirt by adding a turtleneck over it. Boots and leggings keep me warm as well. Looking at the photo- I’m not crazy about the stripes going in both directions. If I had a solid sweater it would look a lot better.
Push up the sleeves, ditch the heavy tights and add strappy sandals and a chunky necklace- and you’re all set for spring.
Love this bright scarf! I would recommend looking in the mirror and making sure the leggings are even before walking out the door! Mine are a little off! LOL!
Dress: Nordstrom, Michael Kors
It’s What I Wore Wednesday, so be sure to check out The Pleated Poppy for lot’s of fashion inspiration.
Also- please go over to Facebook and ‘like’ me- if you haven’t already!
This one is for my neighbor, Laurel. She asked me a long time ago if I ever wear any prints besides stripes- and ever since then I’ve been thinking a lot about that. She’s right, I really tend to avoid any other prints. So, in order to expand my horizons a bit- here you go!
I’ve paired this cute printed top with my cream jacket. The bright red color , the cute pattern and the draping of the neckline makes it interesting.
As for my jacket, I’ve said this before, but it is honestly like wearing a sweatshirt. It’s cotton, so very comfy and not restrictive at all!
I’m also wearing this gorgeous mother of pearl necklace that a dear friend made me for my birthday. It adds a nice touch to my otherwise bare neckline.
On bottom I have my skinny jeans and brown boots. A polished and easy outfit. Now I’m off to see the Chimpmunks movie. UGH!~
Even though I'm just going to the movies today, it is still nice to put a little effort into my look.
Jeans: Madewell, Boots: Target, Top: Macy’s, Jacket: Kohls, Necklace: Gift
I’m working from home in order to take care of my new puppy! Yes, you heard me right! I am now a proud dog owner. For those of you who know me personally, I’m sure you never thought this day would come (I sure didn’t). But then again, you never know when you’ll fall in love!
The thing with working from home is that unless I get dressed in ‘work clothes’ I don’t feel like I’m working. So, although no one will probably see me (well, I might run to Safeway), I’ll still dress somewhat professionally just to set my mind in work mode!
I’ve paired my jeans with this cute chambray shirt and then to make it more professional, I’ve layered my cream blazer. Since this jacket has 3/4 sleeves, and the shirt underneath has full sleeves- I decided to roll the shirt sleeves into the blazer sleeves- so they don’t hang out below.
I also added a belt (leopard this time!) and a necklace and then threw on my leopard heels to really add some personality. Although truth be told- since I’m at home I’ll probably be wearing slippers- (or maybe even these UGGS- but I promise I will not go out in public wearing them. They look awful! )
I love the soft cotton fabric of this jacket- it makes it very comfy and easy to wear.
For anyone who is interested- here is my puppy, Sadie!