Practical Fashion Advice for Women | The Well Dressed Life

A Dress to Rebuild Your Work Wardrobe

June 24, 2021June 16, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Getting dressed for work is hard enough, but getting dressed in the heat of the summer after living in elastic waist pants for a year is a whole other situation. To make matters worse, if you’ve tried to shop recently, you know what’s out there is nothing but prairie-inspired styles covered in busy prints and ruffles.

Not exactly office-appropriate.

So as I was sorting through some new arrivals at Ann Taylor, I landed on this navy square neck sheath dress, which feels like 2019 in the best way possible. A throwback of sorts before waist-up dressing became the norm. It’s just the thing if you’re struggling with rebuilding your professional wardrobe, and it’s on sale for only $75.

Ann Taylor makes lovely workwear, and they are continuing to expand their size range, offering many items in regular, petite, and tall.

A Dress to Rebuild Your Work Wardrobe

Square Neck Sheath Dress, $75 | Ankle Strap Sandal, $84 Resin Hoop Earrings, $48|Large Leather Tote, $298 |Scarf, $48

Dresses are my favorite way to dress professionally. You always look appropriate, and it takes seconds to get out the door. Just zip up and go. This dress is made from what they call a seasonless stretch, which means you can wear it year-round. Go bare-legged in the warm months and add a tight in the winter.

Having updated basics on hand will help elevate the dress, so it looks modern. Here, I’m using a neutral ankle strap sandal from Nine West, but you can wear any neutral-to-you summer heel.

For accessories, I am in love with these tortoise resin hoop earrings from Vince Camuto at Nordstrom (under $50). They are oversized, so limit your other jewelry and let these standout.

If you need a summer work tote, this Kate Spade option is beautiful. It’s simple, hardware and logo free (always a plus) and goes with everything. For an extra wink of style, I included a navy polka dot scarf that I would tie on the hand of the tote.

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Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail.

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The Best Strapless Bra That Stays Up!

June 15, 2021June 15, 2021 by Megan Kristel

With all of the strapless and off-the-shoulder styles popping up this summer, the most popular question in my inbox and DMs right now is, “What is the best strapless bra that stays up?”

So today’s post is short and sweet: the Wacoal Red Carpet Convertible Strapless Bra is the best strapless bra I have ever worn and is deserving of its almost cult-like following.

There is a common misconception that a bra’s straps are what keeps it up and in place. But the truth is that the bra’s construction, and making sure you are wearing the correct size, matter most.

Wacoal Red Carpet Convertible Strapless Bra

Wacoal Red Carpet Convertible Strapless Bra, $68

The basis of any great outfit is appropriate undergarments. We all need a little bit of extra help. I know I do! After three babies, I need all the support and shaping I can get. This bra not only stays up all day without having to fuss and put yourself back together constantly, but it’s comfortable.

It has molded underwires, and an very light padding that molds to your body. The gripper strips on the inside help it stay up and in place. It also comes with removable straps, but I’ve never used them.

Nordstrom currently has the best size and color selection, going up to a size 42 H. My best advice, especially if you haven’t been properly measured for a bra in a few years, is to head to the store and have someone help you. Or, you can follow the steps in this article and do it at home before you order.

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Why You Might LOVE a Bodysuit

June 9, 2021June 9, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Last week, my 14-year-old, Maddie, ordered some summer clothes online. I gave her a budget and told her she could get whatever she wanted. Knowing my need to control everything, I’m attempting to be more “chill,” encouraging her to develop her unique style. Luckily she isn’t into some of the more skimpy pieces marketed toward her demographic, so I didn’t have to worry about what she bought.

I never saw her so genuinely excited, from the autonomy she had placing the order to waiting for it to arrive. Then, finally, it showed up yesterday, and she tore it open, squealing as she pulled each new piece from the box.

Every single item could have been from the Delia’s catalog.

From the color combinations and styles to the daisy dangle earrings, she looked like the coolest girl from the mid-90s.

Boy, have the 90s have come back with a furry.

It’s wild to see how everything old is new again, and surprisingly, one trend I’m not mad about is the rise in bodysuit popularity.

Why You Might LOVE a Bodysuit

Bodysuit, $18.50 in black and white

As I’ve gotten older I just assumed they would be a pain in the neck to wear. But to my surprise, they are pretty comfortable and practical.

The trick is to find a decent one that gives you some support. After reading reviews on dozen of different options, I ordered this affordable bodysuit off of Amazon by Yummie.

Yummie is a brand that creates undergarments, activewear, and a selection of fashion pieces that incorporates elements of shapewear into its designs. Described as a “hug, not a squeeze.”

If you want to give one a try this bodysuit (under $20) is a fantastic option. It’s NOT a thong (can you imagine?), and it has a high back, so you can wear it with your everyday bra and a universally flattering neckline.

So why is this so great, and how can you wear it?

It’s kind of like wearing a tank top and Spanx at the same time. Wear it alone or as a layer under a summer-weight cardigan or light blazer.

I like it styled simply with shorts, jeans or a long pair of linen trousers for a tucked-in look that smoothes out your waistline.

Easy-peasy.

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Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

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Pinterest in Real Life: Making Shorts an Outfit

May 28, 2021May 28, 2021 by Megan Kristel

I always say, to make the simplest outfit stand out you have to pay attention to details. Today’s Pinterest in Real Life is an example of how mixing basics with a few trend-focused items can create something unique, fresh and modern.

I am SO READY for a fun and busy summer. Normalcy is undoubtedly something to celebrate, so I’m all about making everyday outfits feel special.

Our inspiration outfit is just that, an ideal everyday outfit for any summer activity, like a girl’s trip to a winery or a day of playing tourist.

Pinterest in Real Life

Cambray Shorts, $49.50 | Long Sleeve Breton, $40 | Felt Hat, $58 | Rock Stud Flat Sandals, $49 | Straw Tote, $88

Let’s start with the chambray shorts. I like these as a denim alternative when you want something light and polished. Our model has gorgeous legs, so the length of her shorts is perfect. For a similar look, I’m showing a pair with a 3″ inseam from J. Crew Factory on sale for under $25. These. Are. Short. So wear them if you want to show off your steams.

Other, longer options include this high-waisted pair from Old Navy for only $15 in all sizes, or for a fuller cut, these Cargo Chambray shorts from Talbots are under $65 and also come in all sizes.

The inspiration shorts also feature an elastic, gathered waistband. Again, she looks great in them, but when I try a wear something like this, I feel like I’m in a diaper. If you have the same issue, wear traditional flat-front shorts.

Next, you know a striped shirt is a staple in my wardrobe and on my list of must-haves every season. My favorite is from Boden for $40. Pairing a 3/4 or long sleeve top with shorts makes the look more finished and polished. You can do a full or half tuck with your top, depending on what makes you feel most comfortable.

Finally, the accessories are easy but impactful. After featuring hats in Tuesday’s post, I wanted to show you how to wear one in a regular outfit. I mean, how cute is it here? For this look, I went with a mid-size brim option from Madewell for under $50. For all my other picks, you can see our Must-Have Piece post here.

Then, grab any straw bag you already own; the one above is also from J.Crew Factory for under $70.

What I think takes this look from good to great are these studded sandals. I’m not sure which ones our inspiration outfit features, but Steve Madden has an affordable pair on sale at Macy’s. These look great with anything from shorts to maxi dresses. You’ll wear them all summer.

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A Simple Top for Back to Work

May 26, 2021May 26, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Whether you’re headed back or already in the office, I’m sure the one glaring hole in your wardrobe is tops for work. They have been tough to find this season, so when I stumbled on these under $50 tops from Nordstrom, I knew I had to share them.

You can pick them up in an array of colors and patterns in XS-XL. Consider them if you bought any of our reader favorite, best-selling pants from the past few weeks, including the Old Navy High Waisted Linen Cullotes, the Nordstrom Stretch Cotton Ankle Pants, or even tucked into the Athleta Skyline Pant.

Cap Sleeve Blouse, $49

Of course, you can also wear these with your favorite jeans in dark, light, and white, or a pair of shorts.
The neckline is ideal for layered necklaces or an oversized pair of earrings.

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Felt Hats for Under $100

May 25, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Last week I chatted with our INSIDERS (our private membership group) and was THRILLED when they asked for some recommendations for felt hats.

It’s just another sign that more and more of us are getting back to pre-pandemic life and getting dressed for the occasion.

We often talk about the challenges of getting dressed in the warmer weather. With fewer layers to work with, we have to be thoughtful about using accessories as a layer to create depth and interest in our outfits.

Hats are at the top of your list of options. They take a basic outfit from boring to chic in seconds.

Felt Hats Under $100

Wear a hat with any casual outfit, like a tee-shirt and shorts, or a midi/maxi dress.

They are adorable for a day spent outside, so if you’re hitting up girls’ weekend somewhere fun this summer, visiting a winery, or just going to brunch on a sunny weekend morning, throw on a hat and elevate your look.

I wouldn’t spend too much here. For today’s post, I kept the price point under $100, with recommendations starting as low as only $18. You’ll get wear out of it this summer and straight into the fall.

Scroll down to see my top picks.

H&M Under $20

H&M, $18

Super cute, looks more expensive than it’s price tag, and available in camel (above) or black.

Free People

Free People, $78

Feminine and gorgeous, this Free People “Boater” hat comes in beige (above) or blush.

Madewell

Madewell, $84

I bought this Madewell hat for our trip to Greece, because as much as I plan to sit on my backside for most of the trip, I know we’ll go exploring too. This is the most expensive of the round-up at $84 but it is incredible quality.

Brixton

Brixton, $78

Finally, you can pick this Brixton hat up at Nordstrom in either black or tan. It’s seasonless and packable.

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Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

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Back to Work Pants

May 12, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Going back to work looks different for everyone. Maybe you’re already in the office, planning to head back soon, or working from home is permanent.

Whatever your situation, between the change in season and restrictions lifting, it feels like it’s time for a refresh.

My inbox is full of requests for better ankle-length bottoms for work. So today, I’m featuring “The Hockey Jean – Better Than Denim” from M.M. LaFleur.

Next week, our Brand Spotlight will highlight M.M.LaFleur. I have a million good things to say about the company. But this particular pant has so many beneficial features; I think they warrant their own post.

If you are looking for an investment-style pant to help fill a void in your work wardrobe, consider these a fantastic choice.

Consider these if you are looking for an investment-style pant to help fill a void in your work wardrobe.

The Hockey Jean by M.M. LaFleur

Pants, $165

It’s important to note that these are not jeans; instead, they are a cotton stretch fabric, that’s why they are calling them “Better Than Denim.” You get a straight, curve-hugging fit, with a clean line that you can pair with a variety of tops and shoes.

Here’s why I love them. They are high-waisted, which is fantastic because, as you’ll learn in our Dressing Your Body Type series, flatter all body types. They are also machine washable and wrinkle-resistant, so perfect for traveling or if you just have long, busy days.

The fit is on point, similar to how the Spanx Perfect Pants hug your curves, but lighter weight and available in more colors. Above you’ll see the black and navy, you can also get them in charcoal, beige and a dark tan. Sizes run from 0 – 18.

Now, here’s the best feature. File this under why doesn’t everyone do this?

The hem is adjustable!

You can easily adjust between heel heights by lengthening or shortening the hem with easy-to-use snaps. So you no longer have to choose between wearing flats and heels, you can wear both.

Absolutely genius.

How to Wear

These pants will give you so many options, they are truly a staple. Out of our recent best sellers these would look best with the J.Crew Factory Cotton Tunic in white (under $40), the Ann Taylor Linen Boatneck Top, any lightweight jacket or blazer, like this popular linen blend “biker” from Nic + Zoe, and of course, a stripped top and cute pair of white sneakers.

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Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here.