Cool weather always generates certain cravings—apple cider, cozy soups, decorative gourds… and, of course, PLAID. Before the first leaf hits the ground you can usually see half of your city covered in tartan flannels and buffalo check scarves. But what if you’re… you know, employed, and need to keep a certain level of professionalism to your obsession with seasonal styles? Friends, I give you the Theory Super Cinched Blazer, a closet hero (if ever there was one) in vintage houndstooth that I recently discovered at Nordstrom.
Tie Neck Silk Popover Blouse (affordable alternative HERE)
VINCE
I admit I am a hoarder of blazers. I openly acknowledge and accept this. I think there are an additional 47 other blazers currently in my Nordstrom shopping cart. But, perhaps this obsession (compulsion?) just goes to show you how truly spectacular a blazer must be to really ‘wow’ me at this point. And, I’m telling you, this blazer wow’ed me.
Many people (especially my petite friends) are nervous about the oversized blazer trend and if that sounds like you, try this one. The cut really accentuates your waist which helps with proportions, no matter your size, making it the perfect foray into the oversized blazer trend for anyone who’s worried about being swallowed by their own clothes. It’s incredibly feminine, something not always available in a good blazer, and the delicateness of this pattern lets you play around with cold weather faves without going the full Paul Bunyan at the office.
Tie Neck Silk Popover Blouse (affordable alternative HERE)VINCE
I’ve paired my new blazer best friend with a matching set from Vince, a silken, slightly drapey skirt and blouse pairing in a copper color I’d like to live in until 2037, thank you very much. The flow of these pieces really complements the structure of the blazer, creating an outfit with balance and an appealing play on textures. The gorgeous color of course makes me feel like a walking, talking Pumpkin Spice Latte and nods to the coziness of the season. And coziness is a word, I checked.
TIFFANY & CO.
Important lesson I learned the hard way: This skirt is a perfect length for most professional environments, but it does have a slit that you probably want to tack slightly lower if you’re donning it to the office. You can take it to a tailor, but honestly it’s super easy—just literally add a few stitches so that it doesn’t open up quite so high. Walking to the office in the wind made me realize just how high it can open, so I ducked into Duane Reade and got a sewing kit.
It is possible for your workwear to feel decidedly fall without looking like you should be brandishing an axe and toting a bushel of apples. Think rich jewel tones, delicate versions of classic cold-weather patterns, and cozy textures. The worst thing you could do would be to skip a sartorial season that you love, but the second worst thing would be to look unprofessional. Find the right way to do both. And sip as much cider as you want.
LAURA MERCIER
Thanks to Nordstrom and ShopStyle for partnering on this post!
13 thoughts on “How To Dress For Work This Season Without Looking Like A Lumberjack”
These colors look amazing on you!!
chevrons & éclairs
Always beautiful and very elegant!
Beautiful! x
http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com
So pretty- I wish you actually put the blazer on in the photos to see the fit.
Yes, apologies for that! It was insanely windy when we shot, and all of the photos with the blazer on didn’t turn out. If you click on the link, you can see the blazer on the model which gives a perfect impression of how it looks. : )
That blazer is perfect!! And that dress is stunning! I really love the color and fabric!
http://www.rdsobessions.com
I am in love with this dress!
The color is just so spectacular!
Love,
Nikki
http://www.runwaytoroad.com
Love this outfit!
Also, HOW do you get your hair like that?
Can you please do a tutorial?
Thanks
Stunning dress! I love the look! Perfect match with the blazer!
Gorgeous look, and Theory jackets are the best. But I agree it would help to see the blazer worn, and the blouse is low cut for a conservative office. Can it be tailored?
I love your style of writing. Total blog inspo. I end up wanting to read every word versus just looking at pictures. Great great content. Thank you for the inpso
The most stylish girl! I admire You and learn from You.
I love a satin co-ord!! can’t wait to style mine