Work Outfits Archives - The Well Dressed Life

Work-from-Home Outfit: Tie Front Top and Jeans

September 23, 2020September 23, 2020 by Megan Kristel

In this ever-changing world, a routine is something I’m craving, so getting up and getting dressed has been essential for keeping my mood and outlook bright. That’s not to say I don’t have days where I look like the wrath of God. I sure do.

It’s because of those days that I know first hand how much better I feel when I take 20 minutes and pull myself together.

Like many of you my days start early and go late. I’m juggling a career, school obligations, growing kids, and the busiest toddler you’ll ever meet. So clothes need to be easy, comfortable and polished.

The outfit below is great example of how simple, affordable pieces, with a little extra detail, can create a wear anywhere outfit that works for long days at your desk, to car line, to sitting on the floor playing with the baby and everything in between.

I’ve worn this outfit twice now, once for drinks outside with some friends, and most recently, yesterday (below) for a busy day of work. It’s quickly become a go-to.

Work-from-Home Outfit: Tie Front Top and Jeans

Top, $40 | Earrings, $46 | Jeans, $68 | Sneakers, $45

Let’s start with the top by Madewell. I bought it at the Nordstrom Sale last month. It’s super soft, like a thermal, with a tie front detail that gives it a little extra something. Available in five colors in sizes XXS – 3X. It runs small, so go up a size; it’s not as long as it looks on the model. I’m almost always a medium top but went with the large, and it fits well.

To care for it, you can throw it in the wash as directed, but then I hung it up until it was almost just slightly damp and then threw it in the drier for 10 minutes. This way, it stayed soft and didn’t shrink.

Then, I picked up two new pairs of jeans from Wit & Wisdom, also at the Nordstrom Sale. The ones featured above are classic, dark denim in a skinny cut. Below, you’ll see me in the distressed version. Both are comfortable, have fantastic stretch, and are well under $100.

You want to size down in these. I ordered (and am wearing) the 10, but I should have bought the 8. When you put them on the first time, you want them to feel almost too snug; I promise you that they will quickly stretch out and conform to your shape.

What’s important to note here is that the top will hit right at your waist, so having a jean with a mid – high rise will keep you “in” and prevent you from looking like you are wearing a crop top.

Then, I reused these sneakers that I featured in the summer. I still love them, and they add some much-needed interest.

Finally, you can’t go wrong with classic CZ studs (also from the Nordstrom sale). Easy peasy.

Real Life

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🍂It’s officially fall! . It feels like we jumped right from the lazy days of summer head first into all the busyness of fall. . Here on the east coast we’ve been blessed with some truly gorgeous weather and sunshine. . Perfect jeans and cozy top weather. . For these long days juggling a million and one things I NEED to get up and get dressed. . Otherwise, I’m a hot mess all day. . Today’s outfit is affordable, easy and comfy and a great example of how simple details pulls a look together. . ☝🏼For all the details follow the link in my profile and click “New on the Blog” . 📸photo credit goes to my 10 year old. Everyone in my family tired to take a decent picture of me, this is as good as we could get 😂😭

A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Sep 23, 2020 at 6:20am PDT

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Our Content is Inspired by Our Readers

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 View Postand 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.

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

A Zoom Perfect Piece for Under $40

September 16, 2020September 16, 2020 by Megan Kristel

J.Crew Factory Button-collar pullover sweatshirt in green, pink, and ivory

Here on the East Coast, right outside of Philadelphia, it feels like we skipped over a lingering summer and jumped headfirst into Fall. The leaves are already turning orange, and it’s cold enough in the mornings that my kids voluntarily wear a hoodie to the bus stop.

Our big girls are back to school (in person!), the baby is turning two and has two speeds: running and asleep, and our calendars are as overscheduled as they were in the pre-COVID good old days.

I’ve never been more grateful for all the things on our plates. Whenever I want to complain about the busyness, I remind myself that the alternative is a disaster.

Now that we are in full swing with the Fall season, I need to spend some time organizing my closet, and pulling my wardrobe together, so getting dressed for the day is easier. It’s no surprise that after this last six months, my closet needs some TLC.

To start with, I need a few casual tops, that are cozy and chic, like this button top sweatshirt I found at J.Crew Factory. I’m always looking for a basic with a twist and this checks all the boxes.

J Crew Factory Button Top Sweatshirt

Sweatshirt: $44.50 (plus 20% with Code: COMFY) NOW $35

I picked it up in white and green (head over to my Instagram to see how I’m wearing it today). You can wear it on it’s own, or layer over a long sleeve tee or collared shirt with your favorite jeans.

Right now, it’s on sale for $35, in all sizes including a 3X. It’s just the thing if you are looking to add some casual yet polished options to your early fall wardrobe.

And! Don’t forget! Our Fall 2020 Wardrobe Challenge starts THIS FRIDAY! This is the BEST time of year to participate, whether you are new to The Well Dressed Life, or have participated in the past, you will walk away with insights, clarity and a perfectly organized closet.

Our Content is Inspired by Our Readers

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.

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

How to Wear Spanx Perfect Black Skinny Pants to Work

September 9, 2020September 9, 2020 by Megan Kristel

The Spanx “Perfect” Black Skinny Pants are among the most popular items we featured during the Nordstrom Sale. With all the comfort of a legging, these better basics can take you anywhere.

Good thing because we’re not only transitioning from the summer to the fall, but also from staying home to getting back out into the world. So whether you are working from home or are in the office, you will get a ton of use out of these pants.

How to wear the Spanx “Perfect” Black Skinny Pants

Spanx The Perfect Black Pant, $128

First, let’s talking about the pants, available in an XS – 3X.

The comfort is next level. As someone who goes from sitting on the floor with my toddler, to working at my desk, to dropping my big girls off at sports practices, these pants let you move while looking polished.

And now that we are inching closer to sweater weather – their flat front and pull on style are ideal.

Look One: Work from Home

Sweater, $69, Scarf, $51, Mules, $70, Yeti Mug, $29

To work from home on a chilly day, add a cozy sweater. Chelsea28, available at Nordstrom, makes lovely, affordable knits. This particular sweater is supposed to be oversized. The shoulder is relaxed (or “dropped”) and the sleeves are extra long, so you can scrunch them up or pull them over your hands.

I happen to love a turtleneck. So here, I would pull my hair up in a messy ponytail and tie it with a scarf, like this one on sale at Wolf & Badger.

Then, instead of a real shoe, this hybrid of a slipper and mule by Ugg. I wear my Uggs all the time. They keep your feet toasty warm, but you can walk around in them to grab the mail or drive to the car line for school pick up. And of course, a mug to keep the never ending stream of coffee warm.

Look Two: Back in the Office

Blazer, $109, Shell, $39, Earrings, $91, Bag, $328, Shoes, $69

I’ve been hearing from readers who are back in the office and looking to find balance in dressing for a more relaxed environment, but still wanting to look professional.

Grab these pants, and add a few simple workwear basics, starting with this plaid blazer by Liverpool (available at Bloomingdale’s). It’s a beautiful piece that adds some casual structure to an outfit. It’s available in sizes up to XXL, with a little bit of stretch that will match the pants’ comfort.

Next, you need a layer, which is often hard to find. This one, by Halogen, is under $40. Scoop it up in ivory (above) and black if you need to refresh your core work wardrobe. There are also six other prints to choose from, including a classic leopard print you can layer under a black blazer or cardigan. Available in petite and missy.

Then, a comfortable but professional shoe. I found these suede slingbacks with a block heel on sale for under $70. For jewelry, you have so many options. You could add a long necklace to create a lovely layered look under the jacket’s neckline or a bold earring, like these black onyx drops that mix classic and modern design.

Finally, a splurge-worthy quilted bag by Michael Kors to show how adding textural elements can elevate an outfit. You can see, by matching your hardware and metal tones, you can create a cohesive look easily.

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Our 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.

A Must Have $22 Top for Work

March 10, 2020March 10, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Get ready, because this post is JAM-PACKED with super wearable, size-inclusive pieces that stand alone or can be paired together. I had a hard time coming up with a post title because there are so many good pieces here.

We’re continuing to focus on filling in the voids of our wardrobes, starting with this sweet and simple $22 top from J. Crew Factory.

Better Than A Tee Shirt – Tee Shirt

When I worked with personal clients, I use to look for what I called “better than a tee shirt – tee shirts.”

I define it as something:

– finished enough so you can take your jacket or blazer off comfortably.

– versatile so you can pair it with everything from jeans, your favorite trousers, or a pencil skirt and not feel like you have to add more to your outfit.

– a straightforward piece that is elevated more than a basic cotton tee.

When I spotted this at J.Crew Factory last week, I quickly grabbed a few for myself and made sure to add it to our content calendar.

It’s only $22, so scoop it up before it sells out.

Textured Puff-Sleeve Top by J. Crew Factory

Top, $22.50

Available in the five colors above, I purchased the coral and the ivory – which is a true ivory. It looks yellow-based in pictures but in person it is ivory, or off white. I doesn’t look dingy at all.

The sleeves have a subtle puff style. Don’t worry they don’t make your shoulders look bigger than they are, it’s just a nice detail. And you can comfortably layer something over it.

I love that the fabric has a bit of texture too. It looks like a cross-hatch, so you get some added depth and interest.

If you are looking for an ideal layering piece that can also stand on it’s on, this is it.

I’ll be featuring it a lot in upcoming posts.

Regarding size, if you are in between or want a little more room consider sizing up. I am a true medium, but bought the large because I like how it drapes and worry about it eventually shrinking.

Because J.Crew Factory has a fantastic size range, you can get this top in up to a 3X.

An Outfit Full of Must Haves

My goal is to provide accessible outfit inspiration without it being boring. When writing these posts I envision how most of us get dressed in the morning: our eyes half opened, stumbling into our closets, hoping a cute outfit jumps out at us.

If you have the right pieces, it’s easy to quickly get dressed. Today is an example of how basics coming together create a simple yet elegant look.

For this inspiration outfit I used pieces I know many of you already have, and a few worth picking up.

First, the top, in coral, because I love the combination of coral and navy in the spring.

Next, I paired the top with ankle pants from Banana Republic. These get rave reviews from readers for their fit, quality, and the fact that you can wash them. They are available in regular AND petite from a 0 – 20, a stunningly awesome size range.

Next, I added these tan suede heels from Taryn Rose. If you are not familiar with Taryn Rose, listen up!

She is a former orthopedic surgeon who started a line of shoes that are both comfortable and stylish. Usually, her prices are around $200 (+), BUT these suede heels are on sale at Zappos for $75, so they might be worth checking out if you are looking for both function and fashion from your footwear. .

Then I added accessories I know many of you already have, like this navy tote from fan-favorite Cuyana and updated studs from affordable jewelry brand Gorjana.

Finally, because I can’t resist a little animal print and extra love it with this color combination, I included this super chic patterned bracelet you can pick up on HSN for under $60.

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Our 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.

How to Wear a Pink Skirt Three Ways

September 15, 2020February 26, 2020 by Megan Kristel

It has been dark, cold and dreary all winter on the east coast. I’m over it and I’m ready for spring. If you are too, join me in adding a much needed pop of color into our work wardrobes.

A pop of color is just that, a POP! It should feel bright, cheerful, and a little bold. But balance is a big part of making sure the color doesn’t feel out of place in your look.

So I created three looks to inspire you to try a colorful staple. Today, I’m using this Banana Republic fuchsia skirt. It’s available in missy and tall sizes from a 0 – 20 and she’s WASHABLE. No need to dry clean.

How to Wear a Pink Skirt Three Ways

First, let’s talk about how to use these three way posts. They’re meant to serve as both outfit inspiration and product recommendations. I spend hours searching for the right pieces that will work for the majority of our readers.

And each piece within each outfit is meant to be worn multiple ways. Hate the skirt? Ignore it and focus on the supporting pieces. All items have as much size inclusive options as I can find.

And if something looks familiar it’s because I purposely use items we’ve featured in pasts posts to highlight their versatility. The idea here is true wardrobe building.

Feminine Power Dressing

Blazer, $98 | Skirt, $90 | Blouse, $49 | Heel, $82 | Earring, $38

I want to stand on my head I love this look so much. First, every piece is a wardrobe staple that we have featured dozens of times.

This ivory blazer is a must have so go grab it. It’s by Gibson at Nordstrom – many of you bought it last year – it comes in lots of colors. Wear this instead of a cardigan when you want to slightly elevate your look with some structure. It’s available in petite and miss for under $100. Plus size is here.

The blazer is light enough to wear all day – it’s part of the outfit so keep it on. I used the Ann Klein ivory sleeveless blouse underneath from our spring wardrobe capsule. Again, another popular item many of you already have. This creates a lovely layered look, with some depth from the fabric combination and the tie at the neck of the blouse. Scoop this up in XXS – XXL for under $50.

Then, the popular Banana Republic 12 hour heels in a slingback style. This color is called Biscotti Beige, and there are lots of other great neutral-to-you options. It’s a lower heel that should be comfortable all day.

Finally, these Gorjana stud earrings for under $40 with a pretty marble finish.

Casual Color Combo

Blouse, $60 | Skirt, $90 | Heel, $150 | Earring, $38

Next up I took the skirt and played with color. I absolutely adore wearing variations of pink and red together. It use to be a trend but it’s evolved into a modern color combination.

Here I used this simple short sleeve blouse, another great find on sale at J.Crew for $60. J.Crew rocks the size scale offering XXS – 3X online. This blouse is full, and meant to blouse out of your skirt. You can also pair it with simple ankle pants and flats on a warm summer day when you want to look finished but don’t want to wear a lot of layers.

Another lower heel options here, this time from our go-to Sam Edelman. The snakeskin, in black and white acts like a neutral, but gives depth to the outfit.

Finally, I added an oversized black stud earring by Kate Spade, these were one of our more popular earring picks in 2019. By bringing the black up to your face, you balance the shoes and the look becomes purposeful.

Just Add Black

Blouse, $69 | Skirt, $90 | Shoes, $99 | Bracelet, $65

An easy and simple way to bring color into your outfit is by pairing it with black. It provides a sharp contrast.

I used this peplum blouse by Chelsea28. I’m a big fan of the brand for affordable occasion tops. To wear this, let the skirt sit under the peplum and the peplum to just fall over your midsection – it shouldn’t be exaggerate.

You’ll get lots of wear out of it. It works especially well with flat front, side size pants or wear it with dark jeans on the weekend when you need a “going out outfit.”

Then I added these J.Crew studded bow sling back flats. I just wore them yesterday, they add the perfect amount of subtle detail.

Lastly a bracelet. I’ve been wanting to add this into a look because it’s multi-tone, stands on its own or can be layered and is only $65.

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.

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

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagramand join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

How to Wear Navy and Black Together

September 15, 2020February 20, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Can you wear navy and black together? You sure can. In fact, it’s my favorite color combination.

Of course, there are a few loose guidelines to help you figure out where it works and where it doesn’t, so that’s what we’re talking about today.

This post was inspired by some conversations happening in our private Facebook group. It’s open to all readers, is women only, and filled with helpful info, not just from me, but from your fellow readers. Everyone is welcome, please be sure to answer the three membership questions for quick acceptance.

Let’s jump in.

Antiquated Rules

Fashion rules are always changing; it’s how style evolves and is indicative of what is happening in the world. A woman wearing a pair of pants use to be controversial and wearing white after labor day was a major faux pas.

When I’ve mentioned navy and black is a perfectly acceptable combination in the past, I’ve received actual hate mail. I have know idea why it bothers people so much, except that the internet is the worst and no one is meaner to women than other women.

But it’s not me making up these rules. In fact if you look at the color wheel, black sits directly across from navy, which tells us that they are, in fact, the best complements for each other.

Navy and Black Together in Clothing

Designers for at least the last decade have been pairing the colors together. From color blocked dresses, to chic tweeds, there is an abundance of industry examples that tell us that black and navy is a winning, chic combo.

Above is a popular jacket we featured a few weeks back that features black, navy and subtle silver threading. I wear it with all black underneath, but you could just as easily wear it over a navy dress or column of color.

Another popular way to wear navy and black is by color blocking. You can either create the look yourself or look for it in a piece.

Like this dress absolutely love by Vince Camuto. It’s a simple sheath, with a flattering color block design that will pull you in at the waist. For under $100 it’s a lovely option for work, to layer under a simple black blazer or cardigan.

Street Style – Real Life

Pants, $50 | Scarf, $45 | Heels, $130 | Sweater, $70 | Bag, $78

There is something incredibly sophisticated about a navy and black combo, but you have to be careful with the pieces you use. The key is to look intentional with your outfit, and not mismatched.

Inspired by this picture I found on Pinterest, I created the outfit above.

I used a pair of Everlane’s popular size zip pants (only $50!) The color is an inky navy, this is important for the overall effectiveness of the outfit because for the combination to work, you want to make sure your navy pieces are very obviously navy. And, if you are using more than one navy element, that those are similar in color.

Then I paired the pants with better basic black pieces. Like a pair of kitten heel Sam Edelman pumps in classic black leather. Then this silk and cotton blend sweater from Banana Republic is on sale for under $50. It’s called “cropped” but it’s not, it’s just shorter and will work with high waisted bottoms or if you are short waisted.

For a more traditional sweater, I have and love this cashmere blend, also from Banana.

A black bag with structure is great for work, and plays into the overall simplicity of the outfit.

Then I used this silk scarf with navy and black will pull it together. You don’t have to include it, but I like how it makes the look feel cohesive. Tie it around your neck, the handle of your bag or wrap it in your hair for a modern feel.

What to Wear with Navy Bottoms.

The biggest question is what to wear with navy bottoms, so let’s break that down.

If you are wearing a navy skirt or dress, a neutral-to-you shoe is ideal if you are going bare legged or wearing a pair of skin tone pantyhose.

Or you can wear a pair of navy or black pumps. Going back to the idea of being intentional, black works well if there are other black elements in your outfit.

For navy pants, try to find a navy shoe, or you can wear black.

You could also wear a leopard print, which acts as an updated neutral with personality, or a pop of red is fun too in either application.

Having a hard time finding a navy pump? See my top picks below:

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Our content is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers in any way.

Recommendations are based on personal experience and my time working with women as a stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

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Wear it Two Ways: Banana Republic Zebra Print Blouse

February 12, 2020February 12, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Today’s post is FULL of easy to wear pieces for work.

We’re using this updated blouse from Banana Republic, in a fresh zebra print as the anchor of our two way post. It’s also available in solid black, a crisp white, olive green, chartreuse, and a leopard print (marked down to under $60).

Why I love Banana Republic

One of the many challenges I have writing this blog is sourcing quality merchandise, with a size-inclusive scale, that is easily accessible to the majority of our readership.

BR checks all of those boxes, offering missy, petite, and tall sizes, and plus within those categories.

Their selection is well curated, with appropriate options for work, weekends, and everything in between. If only more retailers were like them.

Zebra Blouse Two Ways

Today’s blouse is the kind of piece that seamlessly works in your wardrobe. Make it a go-to for days when you wake up and all you have the strength to do is throw on your favorite black pants. Add a simple shoe and you’re dressed in minutes.

But, if you want to zhush it up a bit, below are two other ways.

Outfit One: After Work Event

Outfit 1: Top, $85 | Faux Leather Skirt, $47 | Shoe, $118 | Bracelet, $25 | Clutch, $30

An outfit composed of basics, made with elevated fabrics is one of my favorite ways to create a sophisticated look with little effort.

In December we featured a faux leather skirt I found at Target. If you picked that up, you can use it here. At a similar price, check out this slim faux leather skirt by Halogen at Nordstrom for under $50.

It’s cut like a pencil skirt so it works in certain office settings – you’ll know if it will work in yours.

Because the blouse as an internal tie waist, you can leave this untucked, but still get the effects of a cinched waist.

I paired it with this dramatic cuff for only $25. Don’t you love when you find something and it looks so much more than it is?!

For shoes, I used our Reader Favorite Banana Republic 12-hour pump in black suede. Pairing suede and faux leather is a great example of mixing lux fabrics together for an elevated look.

Worried about your legs? You can wear black tights, a pair of hose or go bare legged – it’s entirely up to you.

To make transitioning from the day to nighttime event easy, tuck a clutch into your work bag. This $30 option at DSW will take you lots of places without a big investment.

Outfit Two: Casual Friday

Perhaps a more realistic outfit idea, this jeans and sweater combo is ideal for casual or creative offices.

First, this blouse looks best with an inky blue denim. I’m showing it here with the Paige Skinny Jean. They are expensive, but a big reader favorite. You can swap them for whichever brand you like most – just keep it dark.

It is, however, important that your bottom is slim to your body so the blouse drapes properly.

Next, assuming your office is freezing, it’s nice to add that third layer, to not only keep you warm but to add some interest. This one, from H&M is fantastic and only $25.

Rounding out the look, this cute earrings from Gorjana are under $40 and play off the black and gold accents. A classic black bag from Kate Spade adds structure and practicality.

Finally, I love these backless mules with a pointed toe. The keeping the slim line of your leg moving and feel appropriate for a more casual day in the office.

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Our content is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers in any way.

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