I know that it is super important to have versatility with an outfit, especially for work! It is good to find a few nice pieces for your closet that are comfortable, yet professional, for your workplace. I teach private lessons at my own business, Applequist Percussion Studio, so I really don't have a dress code. Lately, however, I have been challenging myself to dress up more at my job and I suggest that you try the same! This post is all about taking a work outfit, using staple items from my closet, from day to night! Some days after work, I don't have time to go home and change before going out on a date, to an event, or a family function. By changing only my accessories and adding a red lip, this outfit totally transforms!
Day
Shop this look: Similar H&M Coat here, here, or here, A New Day Leopard Long Sleeve Popover Blouse, similar patterned tops here, here, and here, Leith Pleat Front Trousers, similar here and here, similar belt here or here, A New Day Remmy Backless Loafers, similar bag here, here, or here, Kate Spade New York Lettered Pendant Necklace, Sophie Harper Layered Disc Choker, similar stud earrings here
When choosing an outfit, I like to use pattern somewhere in my look to give it some visual interest. My leopard top from Target was the perfect addition to this look. Leopard print is so huge right now (or any animal print, really). I was a little late getting into the trend, but I have found that I have became a little more adventurous with my patterns! This top is great for remaining business professional but still having a little sass to your outfit. It is pretty sheer, so I wore a black bodysuit (won't come untucked!) underneath. If leopard print is a little too "wild" for you 😆, I have provided some similar shirts in different patterns above.
I wore this wool-blend coat from H&M over and over in Chicago and am getting some great use out of it here at home as well since the cold weather has arrived. At only $38, it sold out super fast, so I was very lucky to snag one! This coat is heavy and classy, with the beige color making it one of my most used and versatile pieces in my closet. It will literally go with anything! I have found some similar H&M coats that are just as great, linked up above.
These trousers from Nordstrom are the most comfortable pair of black slacks that I have ever owned. With a pleated front and a tapered leg, they look structured and professional, but they honestly feel like a pair of sweats. These pants have a stretchy waist and legs that are just the right amount of roomy without looking baggy. They are high waisted and hug my curves so I don't look boxy when wearing them and it looks adorable with a tucked in top! They are pretty affordable (running at $55), so get yours before they are gone! These trousers are also available in several other colors, some on sale! Click here to see the other color options.
My backless loafers from Target, are easily my favorite pair of flats right now. For a day on your feet, these are comfortable and stylish, not to mention affordable! Mules enable you to get up and go quickly, as they just slip on! You can slip them in your bag when going out to have an accessible pair of flats if your heels start hurting your feet. Here is a fur lined option of the same mule to add some extra coziness.
I have linked similar options to this Michael Kors bag in previous posts and have provided some above. This bag is great for work and is my go-to everyday bag. It is roomy and goes with anything! I also styled this look with a black belt from Target. The belt adds just the right amount of polish to the outfit and cinches in the waist.
Night
Shop the look: Nordstrom Leather Clutch, similar here (comes in 20 color ways!) and here, Adrienne Vittadini Nevi Pump, similar here, Kylie Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Boss
To change this look from day to night, all I did was switch out my accessories and lip color! These pumps from DSW, which could also be worn to work if you don't have to be on your feet a lot, gave me some height (heels measures at 3 1/2") and made the outfit feel less casual. They are actually pretty comfortable for me! I wore them for my last symphony concert and for a rehearsal the other night. I love the double strap detail and the velvet fabric.
This clutch from Nordstrom was the perfect accent to the outfit. For my night look, I wanted a pop of color to add some fun to the look. Red always makes a statement and I felt it stood out next to the beige and black colors of the rest of the look. This bag has a detachable strap, so it can be either a clutch or a crossbody bag. It is also pretty roomy, so it held everything that I needed for that night's activities!
For my jewelry, I layered a choker necklace from Rocksbox with a monogrammed Kate Spade pendant necklace from ShopBop. These necklaces paired beautifully together and I love the layered look for this season! My earrings were a previous purchase also from Rocksbox, but I have linked some similar studs above. I absolutely adore this red, matte lip color from Kylie Cosmetics. It is so pigmented and was the perfect accent to the outfit, matching my clutch.
More Pictures Below
Gus's Description: "The Chilly Leopard"