Readers Favorites Archives - The Well Dressed Life

June 2020: Reader’s Top Five Favs

August 4, 2020June 30, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Our Reader Favorites Series rounds up the Top Five picks from the month. It’s based on our analytics and feedback from you.

Think of this round-up as a “must have” list generated by our readership. It’s always fun to see what ended up being popular from the contented I lined up a the end of May.

June was all over the place. Opened! Closed! Opened! Closed!

Who knows what is going on anymore.

From chatting with many readers, it sounds like we are all just taking it day by day. What else can we do?

Personally, I’m trying to savor every second of warm, beautiful weather because it feels like the summer is flying by despite being the longest year ever.

So as we get ready for whatever July is about to throw at us, we may as well do it looking good!

June 2020: Reader’s Top Five Favs

Once again, you picked some great pieces that can easily be worn now or later, whether you’re working from home, headed back into the office, or having dinner outside.

Let’s break them down.

Classic Striped Top

Striped Top, $38

This striped top from Boden will end up being a reader favorite for all of 2020 – that’s how popular it is.

Boden actually makes two options. This one is a slimmer fit. They call this a “slash-neck” top, which is the same as a boatneck. It’s available in sizes 2 -22.

Your other option is their traditional Breton top, with a slightly more relaxed fit, also in sizes 2 – 22.

Either is fantastic, it just depends on the fit you like best.

Amazon Romper

Romper, $31

So much of the clothing I buy on Amazon gets returned. I try out all the popular picks that the Instagram influencers are pushing, to see if any of it is worth it. Remember, most of these influencers are getting paid by Amazon to peddle their merchandise.

And most of it is crap.

But I discovered this romper on my own (thank you very much) and it’s so great. It’s soft and cozy, just thing to throw on after the beach or pool, or if you’re simply hanging at home.

You can’t beat the price, and it washes well. I take it out of the dryer when it’s still damp and lay it flat to finish.

You can see it on me here:

View this post on Instagram

💕The coziest thing I’ve worn all year. . I featured this $30 romper from Amazon on Friday’s blog. . It is the perfect little thing to slip into after a day on the beach or at the pool. . I’m wearing a large (I always size up in Amazon pieces) and it fits great. . It slips on easy, the shorts are a reasonable length (I’m 5’10) and most important, it’s very comfy in the waist band. . 🥰I love how the top kinda drapes and looks like two pieces. . Nice size options depending on the color you choose. . Follow the link in my profile and click “New on The Blog” to buy and see how to wear it three ways
A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Jun 21, 2020 at 1:51pm PDT

Poplin Top

Puff-Sleeved Blouse, $63 (ON SALE FOR $25)

This blouse is on sale for $25 so if you need something for Zoom calls or you’re headed back to the office, grab it while there are still sizes. You can pair it with navy summer trousers, or simple white shorts. It’s available in “regular” and tall sizes.

Banana Republic has been incredibly dependable during this shut down. There shipping is still fast, and their inventory is one of the few in retail that is still offering a solid size range.

Linen Pants

Linen Pants, $30

Need a lightweight alternative to shorts? Give these linen pants from Old Navy a try. I live in these bottoms. They are currently under $30 and available in a range of colors in “regular,” tall and petite up to an XXL.

Skip the color “feather” it’s see through.

To style them, you can keep it stay-at-home simple with a cotton tee, or pair it with a silk cami and heels for dinner outside.

Tinted Moisturizer

Tinted Moisturizer, $33

There are a lot of reasons I don’t regularly feature beauty products. First, I’m not an expert, second, I’m loyal to what I use so I don’t have a lot of “new” recommendations, and finally, beauty brands are notoriously limited in shade offerings.

But bareMinerals has always done a great job including the fairest (me) to the deepest shades. I love this tinted moisturizer for days you need light coverage with a smoothing effect. It feels good on your skin and doesn’t clog your pores. A little goes a long way.

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.

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.

May 2020: Reader’s Top 5 Favs

June 26, 2020June 3, 2020 by Megan Kristel

The Well Dressed Life Readers' Top 5 for May

Our Reader Favorites series rounds up the Top Five picks from the previous month. It’s based on our analytics and conversations, and feedback from you.

Today’s picks look a little boring, but they pack a big punch if you’re trying to either minimize your wardrobe or build it out with versatile pieces.

May 2020: Reader Top 5

Think of these items like the best of the best of all the options we featured in May.

Linen Joggers

Linen Joggers, $35

I own these in the color above (blue – narrow stripe) and navy. They are great shorts alternative. Yes, they are linen, so they do wrinkle, but, surprisingly, that doesn’t bother me. I wore the nave pair last weekend with this popular white top from J.Crew Factory, and these Tory Burch sandals.

They run true to size, available up to a size 18.

Tie-Front Shirt

Tie Front Shirt, $35 (ON SALE FOR $17)

This simple tie front top from Banana Republic comes in sizes up to and including a XXL and petite options. As I write this it is an additional 50% off, making it about $17. Grab a few colors if you can, it’s available in white, blue, a pretty yellow and black.

They say it’s “cropped” but it’s not. It sits at your natural waist. So if you find that top are always too long, this would be a good option for you. Wear it with your favorite summer jeans, shorts or joggers.

Jeggings

Jeggings, $39

Perhaps the best and most affordable pair of jeggings that look like skinny jeans I’ve ever seen. First of all, these are under $40 – that’s Old Navy kind of pricing.

Second, they fit fabulously. And they still fit me after three months of barely leaving the house. They are available in black (above) and a dark blue denim (here). Sizing is decent, from a 24 – 34 waist.

Eyelet Shirt

Eyelet Shirt, $35

I love, love, love this sweet top. You can’t go wrong with a closet full of white tops. By adding some texture and detail – like the eyelet here, you get something that feels basic but looks special. That’s how you easily elevate an outfit.

Wear this with summer denim, shorts, or even with skirt to work. Sizes option include “regular” up to an XL and plus size.

White Sneakers

White Sneaker, $40

Finally, if you’ve been looking for a simple pair of white sneakers to wear with everything from jeans to dresses, pick up these by Sam Edelman. They are on sale at Nordstrom Rack for $40 in almost all sizes.

When you wear a white sneaker, you want them to look slim on your foot, and not have a ton of detail. These have just enough to look fresh, without being distracting.

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 Post 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.

April 2020: Reader’s Top 5 Favs

June 26, 2020May 6, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Before we dive head first into our May content, let’s take one more look at your favorites from last month. For our new readers, every month we round up the most popular items featured on the site determined by you.

Think of this like a “best of” list, vetted by our community.

April’s Top 5

Once an item makes it to a month’s top 5, they become part of our basics, so I feature them in future posts to help you build a truly functional, mix-and-match wardrobe.

Let’s jump in …

Tank

Soft Satin Tank, $64.50 (On Sale for Under $40)

Can we please protect Banana Republic? It’s one of the last remaining retailers that offers modern, yet conservative workwear at reasonable price points in all sizes. This tank is a must-have whether you go (eventually) to an office, or need a layer for casual sweaters. It’s available in seven colors, including black and white, in regular, petite, and tall, from XXS – XXL. Currently, it’s on sale for under $40. If you need a fresh layer and have it in your budget, consider picking up a few.

Sweatshirt

Tie Dye Sweatshirt, $20

Readers loved this Old Navy Sweatshirt in pink and blue (above) “dip dye” – a grown up way to wear the tie dye trend. It’s not a heavy sweatshirt, but is still soft and cozy. Best worn with your favorite jeans and crisp white sneakers. It’s under $20 at checkout, with lots of size options (including tall). If in between sizes, size up.

Jeggings

Jeggings, $39

As much as I want to feel put together at home, comfort is still a huge factor. I have to be able to be productive at work and hop on the floor to play with the baby. These jeggings, by 1822 Denim are perhaps the most perfect pair of work from home pants. They are cut like a jean with the stretch and comfort of a legging and are under $40. I absolutely love them. They run true (with a lot of stretch) and come in black (above) and blue denim here.

Sneakers

Sneaker, $69

I miss cute shoes, so I picked up these adorable Dolce Vita sneakers. This print is called “leopard” but it’s subtle, and pretty. They were part of our Work From Home Capsule, and add just a little bit of personality to a any of our comfortable basics. They ended up being one of the top selling sneakers I’ve ever featured!

Sweater

Cashmere Crew, $100

Finally, this perfect cashmere sweater from Everlane rounds out our top FIVE for April. It comes in an array of colors, is super high quality, and comes in sizes XXS – XXL. I’m hoping, as the retail landscape changes, they start to offer more depth in their sizing. Especially since the future of stores like J.Crew is hanging in the balance, there is a need for simple, classic American style, that prioritizes size inclusion.

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.

March 2020: Reader’s Top Five Favs

June 26, 2020April 2, 2020 by Megan Kristel

Usually our Reader’s Favorite post is a round up of the top 12 items for the month. However, this month I pared it down to the top 5, that feel appropriate for this current season of our lives.

March’s Reader Top 5 Favorites

Remember, in the spirit of maintaining normalcy, we’re trying to get up and get dressed. It doesn’t have to be every day.

But by know we now that it does make a big difference in our mood and productivity. And since many of us feel busier than ever, every little bit helps in keeping us on track.

LOFT Puff Sleeve Sweatshirt

1. Puff Sleeve Sweatshirt, $49.50

I featured this sweet top on Monday and it immediately jumped to the top of our favorites list. It’s cut like a sweatshirt and feels just slightly heavier than a tee. I love the subtle puff sleeve detail, and 3/4 sleeve with a band finish. It’s sort of box, but doesn’t feel oversized.

Below I’m wearing it in a large. I decided to sized up from my usual medium for a little more room.

View this post on Instagram

🌈This month we have to do everything we can to stay positive and grateful. . We know the news is devastating. . So we need to protect our mental health for the well-being of ourselves and our families. . After two days of feeling dark I got up, got dressed and headed into my sun filled office. . Today I feel ready to take on everything being thrown at us and more. . Some days are going to be better than others. So let’s just give ourselves and everyone we know grace and assume we are doing the very best they can. . Today I’m wear the @loft top I featured on Monday’s blog post. It’s like a tee shirt and a sweatshirt combined. . ❤️I ordered it in white and gray. . 👇🏼for all of my outfit details follow the link in my profile and click “Shop My Outfits” . Hang in there friends, we got this💕
A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Apr 1, 2020 at 9:42am PDT

Old Navy Rockstar Skinny Jean

Super Skinny Jeans, $30

These fan favorites make our list almost every month. They are just an easy jean that fit well and feel great. As much as I love a designer jean, these are my next round picks for our time at home. Right now, they are an additional 30% off, putting them at around $20. They are available in all sizes including regular, petite and tall up to a size 20.

Sam Edelman Bootie

Ankle Booties, $60

Do you “need” these right now? No. Will you be happy you have them in the fall? Yes.

So do yourself a favorite and if you have it in your budget, scooped them up while they are still on sale. You want to get them in the Whisky Leather. And maybe when all this is over we’ll pick a day and all wear our boots at the same time because we all have these!

View this post on Instagram

🎉What’s the biggest void in your wardrobe? . For many of my readers it’s the “in between” pieces. . Like a simple yet pretty top to throw on with jeans and boots. . Today on the blog I’m featuring this spring-ready floral blouse because: . 1️⃣ it looks perfect with dark jeans. . 2️⃣it’s under $60! . 3️⃣it’s available in ALL SIZES. That means there are petite and plus options! . ☝🏼For all the outfit details follow the link in my profile and click “New on the Blog”
A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Mar 6, 2020 at 8:44am PST

Old Navy Utility Jacket

Utility Jacket, $42

Good weather right now is a gift. So go take the family for a walk around the neighborhood or turn off the T.V. and sit outside with a glass of wine. Keep this inexpensive utility jacket from Old Navy on hand to keep the chill off while looking pulled together and chic.

Adidas Running Shoe

Running Shoe: $64.00

These are one of my favorite sneakers that have bee getting plenty of use around here. They are super lightweight, but still supportive. I run, walk and work out in them. I like that they feel slim on my feet (which are a size 10 so that’s important!). We are making family walks a priority, especially when the weather is nice.

I can’t believe how much better I feel after some fresh air and a few hellos to neighbors – from a very safe distance. 🙂

View this post on Instagram

🌟Our Reader Favorites series is a round up of your top picks from the past month. . Typically, February is the worst month to write about fashion. . We’re stuck in between winter and spring so I usually struggle with content. . 🤗But this February the retail gods gave me lots to feature and you loved the mix of better basics and trendy outfit builders. . So head over to the blog to see this months collection, with size inclusive options included. . And today, every piece I’m wearing is a Reader Favorite. . I have a couple hours scheduled in the office and then I’m swapping out my moto for a hoodie so I can coach my daughters running team. 🏃🏼‍♀️ . 👆🏼for details follow the link in my profile and click “Shop my Outfit” or “New on the Blog”
A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Mar 5, 2020 at 7:56am PST

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.

Reader Favorites February 2020

March 5, 2020March 5, 2020 by Megan Kristel

The Well Dressed Life's Readers Favs February 2020

Historically, February isn’t a great month. Stuck in between the never-ending dreariness of January and the beginning of spring, I often struggle with content and product recommendations.

But this February was fantastic!

I’m starting to find my stride with our publishing schedule, and delighted retail offered up pieces worth featuring.

So let’s wrap up winter here on the blog and move into spring by rounding up your top picks from last month.

Your February Favorites are a wonderfully wearable mix of wardrobe staples and interesting pieces perfect to zhush up what you already have hanging in your closet.

Reader Favorites from February

Please scroll through for all available size options. Inventory is limited on some pieces due to popularity.

Sam Edelman Booties

Booties, $60 (on sale!)

You might be sick of me talking about these, but not since this Old Navy Dress has an item been so popular. Simply put, these boots are the best. Pick them up now while they are still on sale and you’ll wear them right up to sandal season and again in the fall.

Banana Republic Blouse

Zebra Blouse, $85 (Lots of other colors and prints)

Just a simple blouse to wear with your favorite pants or jeans is often all we need to make getting dressed in the morning easy-peasy. This blouse, from Banana Republic comes in all sizes and if you’re not wild about the zebra print (see what I did there?) you can pick it up in black, white, or a more subtle cheetah print.

Halogen Tweed Blazer

Tweed Blazer, $139 (Available in all sizes)

The cornerstone of our Workwear Wardrobe Capsule this tweed blazer is a stunner. It’s available in petite and missy here, and in plus size here. It looks great with jeans, navy bottoms or, if you’re brave, a crisp pair of white pants.

Badgley Mischka Pumps

Glitter Pump, $195

I mentioned how beautiful I thought these glitter pumps were in February’s Ten List and was both shocked and delighted to see how many of you bought such a show stopping shoe. They are expensive and completely impractical, which makes them even more fun.

Anne Klein Blouse

Tie Neck Blouse, $37

Need a layer for under blazers or cardigans? This is it. Originally featured in our Workwear Capsule, it’s simple, chic and has the perfect tie neck. It’s available in XXS- XL in white here, and a fresh black and white polka dot print here, both on sale for under $40.

J.Crew Blouse

Metallic Tie-Waist Top, $50

This lovely lady is making her second straight appearance on our Readers Favorite list. She’s a stunning date night top from J.Crew on sale for under $50. I love it with black pants, skirts, or jeans. It has just the right amount of shimmer to make it feel special without feeling over the top.

Levi’s Moto Jacket

Faux Leather Jacket, $88

In my attempt to be more cool, I picked this faux leather moto up for myself. I love it and so did you! It’s just an easy piece to throw on with your jeans, a casual dress or even leggings or joggers, to give your look some edge. The price ($88) can’t be beat for the the quality. Pick it up in missy sizes here and plus size here.

J. Crew Flats

Slingbacks, $99

These slingback flats elevate a basic look with their subtle wink to rocker chic. I own these and regularly wear them with slim ankle pants and jeans. They are currently on sale for under $100 with limited sizes.

J. Crew Tee

T-shirt, $29

I wear these AND my almost 13 year old daughter wears these, so that’s where I am in life. This is a solid basic tee, available in over a dozen colors, though black and white are my go-to’s. Consider going up if you’re in between sizes. They don’t cling to your body but are cut slim enough to show your shape, but I appreciate the extra room the next size up gives me.

J.Crew Pants

Navy Pants, $89

These slim cut ankle pants with a side-zip from J.Crew are what I call a “good navy.” The blue can’t be confused with black. It still reads blue but has depth too it. These come in classic, petite and tall up to a size 16 available in navy and six other colors.

Side-zips are a flattering option that helps minimize a midsection you might not be crazy about (raises hand). They are sliming and unfussy, making them an ideal spring bottom.

Everlane Pants

Black Pants, $50

Another fantastic side-zip pant, this time from Everlane. And they are not on sale, $50 is just the price! I appreciate Everlane as a brand. They focus on ethical manufacturing and transparency with extremely reasonable prices. Sizing could be better, these come in a 00 – 16, so it’s not terrible either. Go up if in between sizes.

Talbots Top

Eyelet Top, $109

Finally, our What to Buy at series continues to be a new favorite series and our Talbots feature received tons of positive feedback from surprised readers. Yes, some of Talbots pieces can look and feel frumpy, but their spring new arrivals offer a handful of better items that look like you picked them up at a special little boutique.

Like this eyelet top that will freshen up a pair of dark jeans instantly.

Another piece that almost made the favorites list was this plaid blazer, (you can see me in it here) that’s also getting lots of love from readers.

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.

January Reader Favorites 2020

February 6, 2020February 6, 2020 by Megan Kristel

January was a month that would never end. By the time it was over I was expecting it to be March. But, alas, here we are in February. So let’s cross our fingers for a short winter and round up your favorites from the first month of 2020.

Reader Favorites of January 2020

There’s a lot of good things here, from a gorgeous date night top (at a fantastic sale price) to a rocker moto jacket – I was so happy to see some not so basics make this month’s list.

Let’s jump in:

Date Night Top

Metallic Top, $50: I scooped this gorgeous blouse up the second I saw it. It’s just the thing for a date or night out with the girls. Pair it with jeans for a more casual look, or dress it up with a slim fitting pair of black pants.

Review from our loyal reader Samantha:

As always, a wonderful recommendation!! I never have anything to wear when I (rarely) go out in the evenings so I knew this top would fill a big void in my wardrobe. My local J.Crew happened to have this top in store so I was able to try it on. Wrap and even faux wrap tops are hard because I am much smaller on top than bottom. Beautiful and fits perfectly! I snagged it on sale for around $30 but love it so much would have probably paid more. I already have 2 or 3 occasions where I plan to wear it. Thank you!

Fitted Dress, $35: H&M is my not so secret resource for affordable pieces that look high end. You might need an alteration here and there, but it’s beyond worth it. This dress and the stunning blue/grey color looks incredibly hight end for under $40.

Sheath Dress, $20: This dress is always at the top of our list – it’s that good. The fact that it’s $20 (FOR A WHOLE DRESS!) doesn’t hurt either.

Cashmere Sweater, $98: If I could live in cashmere sweaters, I would and they have, over the years, become a big part of my everyday uniform. My go to is to pair this with dark jeans and pretty flats for a work from home outfit that is finished but not formal. This one comes in black and camel, with a 3/4 length sleeve so it’s ideal for transitioning into spring.

Embellished Slingbacks

Slingbacks, $99: When you have a wardrobe based on better basics, you need a few things to infuse personality, like these slingback flats from J. Crew. They jazz up any outfit in a subtle way and are surprisingly comfortable.

Hoops, $55: I get countless requests for jewelry options that are affordable, yet well made, so I was thrilled to find Gorjana. Everything I’ve seen so far I love, and am happy to recommend. I own these hoops and wear the frequently. They are lightweight but don’t feel cheap, and the price point is right on the mark.

Puff Sleeve Top, $85: Banana Republic has done such a good job growing up with us. (I bought my first interview suit there in 2001.) They offer so many great pieces, like this puff sleeve wrap-inspired top. It comes in five colors for sizes missy, petite, and tall, from XXS – XXL.

Black Pants, $120: Back in my personal shopping days, Lafayette 148 was a client favorite. They are just a fabulous, professional wardrobe workhorse – with a price tag to match. So when one of their basics goes on sale, you have to grab them. Typically they are $300 +, but right now there is a nice selection on sale at Off 5th for half that. Size wise the run full, more in line with Talbots fit, so keep that in mind when ordering.

Red Blazer, $52: Speaking of Talbots, this red velvet blazer is adorable and on also on super sale. It’s available in missy, plus and plus petite up to a size 24. Don’t be scared to wear velvet to work. With a classic bottom or dark jean, it will bring some texture and interest into your look.

Moto Jacket, $98: Pretty much the opposite of the Talbots blazer is this rocker chic moto for under $100. Wear it with jeans, throw it over a dress, it adds just the right amount of edge to the pieces already hanging in your wardrobe.

Feather Weight Sneakers

Sneakers, $85: These sneakers are light as air on your feet while still giving support. I picked them up to be gym sneakers, but quickly started wearing them all the time. They come in black (above), white with gold detail, and a super fun black and grey combo with a hint of leopard.

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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.

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

Readers’ Favorites of 2019

January 20, 2020December 18, 2019 by Megan Kristel

As we wrap up 2019, our last Readers’ Favorites post roundups your top items from the entire year.

At the end of every month, I study our analytics. I look at our most popular posts and best selling items. Doing so helps me get to know you more and plan out future content.

My goal with all of our style posts is to highlight items that will help you build out your wardrobe, or, at the very least, provide inspiration for how to wear pieces you already have.

I share these top picks with you since we are all looking for practical yet chic, wearable clothes. Think of these posts like a collective thumbs up from other like minded women, with similar needs and lifestyles.

In 2020, we’ll be launching a new way to navigate the site, so you can easily find the specific items on your shopping list. I don’t want to give too much away, but I’m excited to start rolling it out in January.

You can read more about our 2020 plan here.

Today’s post is filled with practical, stylish items that cover almost every category. These are real workhorse items that you’ll turn to over and again in virtually any season and any occasion.

Readers’ Top Favorites of 2019

Ponte Sheath

Hands down the most popular dress of 2019 and I love you all for it. Why? Because it’s perfect for a busy woman. It has stretch, sleeves, a reasonable length for most heights (and is easy to alter if you need it shortened). You can wear it to work with tights and boots, or with sneakers and a denim jacket. And it’s $35. Done.

Shop: Missy, Tall and Petite | Plus

Reversible Tote

Not only did this tote make the favorites list for every month of 2019, but it also made the best of the list for all of 2018. I originally purchased this for a trip to Europe, to have an extra, casual tote on hand. I ended up using it all the time. It’s durable and functional without bringing down your look.

Shop: Assorted Colors

Related: The Best Tote Organizer

Notch Collar Blazer

For that in between place where you want something more elevated than a cardigan but less formal than a traditional blazer, pick up this cotton blazer by Gibson (a Nordstrom in-house brand). It’s ideal for casual work places, for making jeans work on a Friday in a more traditional office setting, or for layering over sleeveless sheath dresses.

And if that’s not exciting enough, it’s available in petites, missy, and plus in an array of colors.

Shop: Missy and Petite | Plus

Knee High Boot

These are gorgeous, sleek boots you can wear with everything from jeans and leggings or with tights and skirts and dresses. The Sienna brown is so pretty and versatile. They are timeless so you don’t have to worry about them going out of style any time soon.

Shop: Brown or Black

Everyday Trouser Pants

You may have discovered my little slice of the internet with my post “Why I Hate Capris and What to Wear Instead.” Since that was published, I learned a valuable lesson; you are either team capris or team anything else.

I still hate them, but these pants by NYDJ (they are calling them “ankle” pants – they are not) are an excellent option. They are a little longer than a traditional Capri, are crisp, and don’t have any pocket detail or loops other ridiculous extra on them.

Most important, the leg opening is straight instead of flared. So you can get the look and feel you like without ruining the line of an outfit.

They are limited in sizes and colors but they always bring them back in the warmer months in better neutrals so keep your eye out for them.

Shop: Limited Sizes and Colors

Ruched Sleeve Blazer

Another casual blazer option, this one, though, is more appropriate for the warmer weather. I’ve worked with it for so many years – all the way back when I personally shopped for clients. It works well with lightweight dresses and skirts and casual bottoms.

Shop: Missy | Plus

Faux Leather Leggings

What else can I say about these that I haven’t said already? They are fantastic. You can see how to wear them three different ways in this post.

Shop: Missy | Plus

Wireless Bra

I love this bra by True & Co. It’s soft and seamless. It doesn’t work with everything, but if you live in tees or sweaters, you’ll love it.

Shop: Assorted Neutral Tones

Related: Every Undergarment You Will Ever Need

Denim Jacket

Talk about a classic. If you still don’t have a denim jacket, pick up this one from KUT from the Kloth. It’s just the right blend of modern and lived in, for under $80.

Shop: Missy (Up to size 16)

Sweater Dress

I was pleasantly surprised to see how many readers loved this sweater dress. Eliza J makes a great dress that works for a mature body type without being or feeling frumpy. You can wear this to work or a brunch event on the weekends – think showers, other parties.

Shop: Sizes 0 – 20

Slip On Sneaker

These slip on sneakers are on sale for $50, in three colors. I opted for black, which is the most limited. Scoop them up now for the spring. I almost always wear them with leggings and fleece half zip for early morning drop off, or for running errands.

Shop: Three Colors