Day to Night | White Button Down

Good morning! Last week, Matt and I were adapting to the new puppy in our lives. Who knew these little cuties were so much work! This week I’m going to continue posts on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Hope you enjoy the second week of this series.

Today I’m sharing two ways to wear a white button down shirt.  In the corporate world, this piece is essential for your wardrobe. I’ve also learned that it works great out of the office. It’s important to remember to make sure this shirt fits perfectly. If it doesn’t fit properly, and/or you don’t feel confident in the shirt, you’ll never wear it.  As strange as it might sound, this might be something to take to the tailor and have it fit properly.

As for today’s look, the first look is your traditional outfit for the office, black trousers and a white button down. I added a wool tie for a fun accessory. The tie can be switch out for a pussy bow for a more feminine look.

As for the evening look, I’ve paired it with one of my favorite faux leather skirts. These skirts look professional, but for most corporate offices probably not appropriate. This outfit gives you the professional appeal outside of the office.

Day Outfit:

Ann Taylor White Button Down (similar at Banana Republic)

J.Crew Tie

J.Crew Paley Trousers

Kurt Geiger Sharkie Heels

Fendi 2Jour

Night Outfit:

Ann Taylor White Button Down

Faux Leather Skirt (similar by French Connection)

Kurt Geiger Sharkie Heels

Clare V Flat Clutch 

If you're on the lookout for the perfect white button down, but not sure where to look, here are a few options:

Photos by Lydia Hudgens

Day to Night | Black Blazer

As you know, January and February in New York is brutally cold and taking outfit photos outside can be torture. So, for the next eight Mondays I'll be sharing how to wear one piece, two ways. It's a little different from the typically street photos, but shooting inside the {warm} studio will allow for me to show you more details in the outfit...instead of just wearing an oversized coat and scarf. And don't worry, I'll continue to have my normal outfit posts on Wednesdays and Fridays. Hope you enjoy today's post! 

The classic black blazer. This is one of my staples in my closet. This blazer is worn at the office and after hours. There are so many different ways that you can style this blazer. Today, I'm just going to show you two. 

A few recommendations when purchasing a black blazer:

1. First and foremost, make sure it fits perfectly. If it means taking it to a tailor, take it to a tailor. If you want to take the hassle out of taking it to a tailor, Nordstrom and J.Crew offer free tailoring to card holders. If you're a frequent buyer at either store, it's worth having a card to get the tailoring. 

2. Make sure it looks good buttoned up or unbuttoned. I'd opt for 1-2 buttons. Anything more can be a little too excessive. 

Statement pieces don't mean you have to make a big an investment, just take the time to find something that you'll wear for years. 

Day: This is a traditional black suit, but I paired it with a jeweled collar top to add more character to the outfit. A white button down shirt can be a little too corporate, at times. 

Night: Wearing a black blazer with a festive skirt and statement belt can bring all the life to your outfit. In retrospect, I'd recommend bringing the belt up a tad so it hits the smallest part of my waist. For a black blazer, I stuck with gold accessories. I also rolled up the sleeves for a more casual look. 

Hope you enjoyed the look. Here's an example on making your closet more versatile. When going out with friends, don't forget about your "work" clothes. They also look great in the party scene! 

Day Outfit: 

J.Crew Italian Wool Stretch Blazer

J.Crew Pants

ASOS Embellished Collar Top

Kurt Geiger Sharkie Heels

Fendi 2Jour Medium Purse

Night Outfit: 

J.Crew Italian Wool Stretch Blazer

Sam Edelman Velvet Waist Feather Skirt

Joie Olivia Boots

BCBGMaxazria Belt (similar at Anthropologie)

Jessica McClintock Clutch

Photos by Lydia Hudgens

What to Wear to Work | Tweed Dress + Suede Boots

For colder days at the office, I've found that over the knee boots work best with my wardrobe. Most of my skirts and dresses can be worn with boots and still look professional. If you're on the market for taller boots, try suede over black leather. They give a little softer look for the office.

It's tough to see, but this tweed dress from Banana Republic is a great fit and flare dress for the winter. I've worn it with a black blazer, but can also be worn with a black turtleneck.

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!

Banana Republic Tweed Dress

Fendi 2Jour Bag (similar by Kate Spade Saturday)

Zara Camel Coat (save vs. splurge)

Joie Olivia Boots

Forever21 Faux Collar old (similar at ASOS)

Photos by Lydia Hudgens