How to Wear Tan Pants to Work Two Ways

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Whether you’re back to the office full time, part time, or still working remotely, many of us are feeling the need with the change of season to start dressing again. At least in something other than leggings.

As an alternative to our go-to jeans or black bottoms, a classic pair of tan pants will give you some variety in your work clothes.

Today, we’ll show you how to make them feel modern, and use some of the more popular pieces we’ve featured over the last few weeks to create a couple of outfits.

First, let’s talk about the pants.

Banana Republic Sloan Pant

Sloan Pants, $98

I’m featuring the Sloan Pant from Banana Republic. It’s a favorite cut amongst readers, but this particular pant runs smaller than usual so be sure to size up. You can currently take 40% off the regular price, and they are available in regular and petite sizes from 0 – 20.

If Talbot’s fits you better, they have many options too. Like their Stretch Cotton Chinos, or their Newport Pants in Canyon. Both are available in all sizes.

No matter what you go with, look for something tailored, with great fit. Otherwise, they wrinkle and look sloppy.

Choose a darker beige or tan. You don’t want to use a light khaki color, it will make the bottoms feel like utility pants and that won’t work with the polished pieces we’re working with.

With a Blazer

White Blazer, $128 | V-Neck Tank Top, $98 | Slingbacks, $80 |Stud Earrings, $32 |Shoulder Bag, $98

If you picked up the white blazer we featured from Express, you could wear it like this with a simple v-neck top layered underneath. I’m using this one from Nic + Zoe. It’s a fantastic staple you can wear year-round as a layer or stand-alone.

Don’t want to do a blazer? Swap it out for a simple long white cardigan.

For shoes, we’re going with the Kate Spade slingbacks on sale at Off Fifth. Sizes are getting limited. If you already picked these up, know you can wear them in black, white, brown, or tan. Use them like a neutral to add a touch of visual interest.

Then, I’m the shoulder bag from our Bloomindale’s Sale roundup (under $100) adds a bit of glamour, along with these gorgeous Lilly Pulitzer stud earrings for only $32.

Polished Casual

Tie Hem Shirt, $55 | Gemstone Pendant Necklace, $35 |Flats, $268 |Canvas Tote, $275

Using tailored basics can create a casual and polished look for the office (or anywhere!). Here, I’m using the Tie Hem Shirt from our Bloomingdale’s line up. This cut is nice if you are petite or short waisted. Or, you could use the French Blue Stripe Button Down many of us have from Amazon.

To fill in the neckline, I went with the Gorjana Gemstone Pendant from yesterday’s post. It’s on sale for only $35.

These tan flats from Tory Burch are soft, comfortable and super chic. Worth the investment for sure.

Finally, I adore this classic canvas tote from Ralph Lauren.

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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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