business casual capsule wardrobe!

I have been out of an office environment for so long now that I feel really out of touch with the whats and hows for business casual wear.  But by far one of the most asked for request that I get from readers is "how to dress for a business casual environment?"

So today I threw my doubts aside and really, truly asked myself "What would I wear if I was headed back to work? What would my work wardrobe look like?".  There are myriad ways to interpret "business casual" and really each and every office has their own spin on it.  Here I chose really bare-bones simple and classic pieces that would work in any office environment. If your office is more creative, then I would add in some more color or pattern or bold accessories or shoes. If your office is more casual then definitely add a few pairs of black or dark skinny jeans to pair with the heels and blazers or even a nice t-shirt to layer under blazers and fun necklaces. Or if your office is more "business" than "casual" I would add a few suits (navy and black are a good place to start) and maybe a more formal bag.

This here is my own interpretation on business casual. It's the pieces that I would likely invest in if I were to head back to an office for work in the near future.  I really worked to choose simple pieces that are classy and classic, but that also mix and match well. When you work outside the home it can be difficult to balance your "work" wardrobe with your "weekend" wardrobe so here I chose a few pieces that might overlap a bit.  It's easier on your pocketbook that way and more fun.  No one wants to feel like they can only have fun with clothes after hours.

bottoms and dresses:

navy trousers, cream trousers, grey slouchy trousers, red skirt, black pencil skirt, striped dress, black wrap dress

tops and blouses:

polka dot blouse, grid print blouse, navy sleeveless top, white sequin top, blank tank, pale pink sweater

blazers and outerwear: 

black blazer, chambray blazer, cream tweed blazer, trench coat

accessories and shoes: 

necklace, ring, bracelet, belt, bag, silver flats, black pumps

3 business casual summer outfit formulas!

One of the most common questions that I get from readers is for advice on how to make getting dressed for work outside of the home easier!  So today I am answering the common question "What are some great business casual outfit formulas for the warmer months?"

It's been quite a few years since I have been working in an office environment but, like dressing for the weekend or for working at home, the trick for making getting dressed simple each day is having a few formulas on hand.   Here are three of my go-to business casual formulas for warmer months:

• A navy blazer with white trousers.  This outfit has endless combinations depending on the shoes and the top you choose.  Here I used a striped top - but you could choose a floral tank or solid oxford for tons of different options all summer long.
• A black wrap dress with neutral accessories.  Having a black wrap dress in your closet is definitely a secret weapon when getting dressed for the office.  You can pair it with gold or silver bracelets or necklace, a neutral handbag and neutral shoes and it's instantly classic and a super easy outfit to pull together.
• A bold and bright top and scarf combo with black trousers.  This outfit is as simple as it gets! Pair your brightest top with a pair of black trousers and a fun scarf and you are office ready in a snap.

get the look above: trousers, blazer, striped top, clutch, shoes, monogram necklace

get the look above: wrap dress, bracelet, eye glasses, purse, shoes (love these!)

get the look above: earrings, trousers, sweater, scarf, bag, shoes