Tag: work fashion

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Fashion

Business Casual Summer Outfits

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! I’m back with another fashion post for you. Last week, I shared some of my favorite summer dresses. As I was working on my list of summer outfits, I had a lot that weren’t dresses but still cute summer ensembles, hence the two-parter post!

This post will be more geared towards bottoms and blouses. These pieces can work for work, networking events, job interviews or a more polished summer look.

I’ll share the links with as many pieces I can find. Without further ado, here’s some of my favorite summer ensembles.

Pop of pink for spring

This first outfit is perfect for the early spring days. I got these soft pink pants from Gap a few years back. One of my favorite things abut them is the straight cut. It can be so challenging to find pants that are straight cut, not skinny and not a flair and these fit the build. I opted for a soft pink for a pop of color. 

I did a big shopping haul from Ann Taylor at the start of the summer and got a lot of things on sale. This white top was one of them. I love the accent with the sleeves. I think it really elevates this top and adds a bit of flair to the outfit. I also like the detailing with the piping down the front too.

I also wore a pair or soft pink mules for shoes. Sometimes, I wear heels with pants, but other times I prefer a flat or loafer. Even though I chose soft, solid neutrals for the outfit, I like the pop of design for the shoes.

Bright and bold in the middle of the summer

This next outfit features more pink! I got this soft pink short sleeve sweater from Ann Taylor.

I love the bright pink color. It can be paired with a pair of dress pants or a skirt. I really like it gives off some early fall vibes but still summer with the short sleeves.

These tan pants are a favorite staple in my closet. One of the things I learned from my mom is to invest in those staple articles of clothing. These could be things like nice dress pants (I have good quality pairs of pants in blue, black, and tan), a few blazers (I have a gray, black, and blue that are must-haves especially for business and work events) and some nice blouses. I have some crisp white blouses along with some fun colors too that are great to pair with different pants and blazers. I got these pants from Ann Taylor and I wear them in all the seasons, they work great in the winter with a blouse and blazer or summer with a bright colored blouse.

I wore a brown pair of mules with this outfit. Although, it’s a slightly different shade, they still work great together. I got these shoes from DSW, my favorite place for shoes!

This next outfit says hello summer. I was on the hunt for a pair of white dress pants for a long time and I finally found them this summer at none other than Ann Taylor. I took this picture during the golden hour, hence the sun setting glare.

I really love that these pants don’t feel too much like a summer pant that you would wear on the beach. They are made of a thicker material that can work in the summer months. My favorite part about these pants is that you can pair them with almost anything, any color, any pattern or any style. 

I opted to pair these white pants with a bright yellow top from yet again, Ann Taylor. I told you I took advantage of a lot of sales this year. I love the sleeves and the bright canary yellow. I plan to wear this top with black skirts, navy dress pants and black dress pants to change things up. You can even wear this top into the fall and in the spring. I really love the versatility that comes with this top.

I wore a white pair of heels with this outfit. I got these heels from DSW and I love the style and how comfortable they are. I was so pleased that I got them in black and navy too. 

Another outfit I put together with these same pants but a different top was this combo.

This outfit is a bit more casual with the pin stripe top, but still professional. I got this top from J.Crew and I love how crisp it looks with the white pants.

Once again, these pants are from Ann Taylor.and the shoes are from DSW. I love how the pants are tailored and cuffed. This is the perfect summer combo with the blue and white and great for an even by the water.

That’s just a quick roundup of some other alternative outfits you can wear to the office, to events or a business casual meeting.

What are you wearing and loving this summer? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Shopping!

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Fabulous living

5 Years of Writing

5 years…every week for the past five years, I’ve sat down and opened my laptop and began to write. 

Some days, it was therapeutic to put into words what’s been on my mind, other days I got to talk about things I’m passionate about, like products, books, or movies.

 I’ve written about outfits I’ve put together and mixing and matching different pieces to keep things affordable.

I’ve written about how to keep your spaces clean whether it’s your dorm room, car, or daily planner.

I’ve written about trips I’ve taken, or bucket lists I’ve made and things I’ve accomplished. It’s amazing that just when I think so don’t have any more ideas, something new comes to mind. Over 350 posts and counting.

When I started my blog at the end of my freshmen year of college, I was looking for a creative outlet. I was homesick and I was searching for a hobby and decided why not write. My blog was a way to keep family members and friends in the loop about what I was doing and as a way to express myself.

A look at some of my first posts.

I looked forward to sharing different outfits and life hacks each week. As I grew up and matured, so did my blog. I changed the style and content as I made my way through college and graduated. If you have been following since the very beginning, you know there’s been changes with color schemes and the days I posted and even some of the topics. It’s been fun to look back and see how far I have come since May 2017.

Another throwback to one of my first outfits.

I learned balance with my blog as I started my first job. Every weekend I always looked forward to working on something creative and fun, especially as our world changed with the pandemic. Even with all the unknowns and at sometimes darkness, my blog was a bright spot for me and hopefully for others. 

From college to my first day of work

I’ve learned a lot about myself these past five years. I’ve learned that it’s okay to be vulnerable and share what’s on your mind, whether it’s about eating alone or transitioning from college to working. I’ve learned the importance of making time for yourself and finding joy every day, whether it’s through journaling or walks or cooking.

Enjoying the simple things in life like apple picking has been something I’ve leaned into more these past few years.

While I’ve learned a lot so far, I know I still have a ways to go. I’m excited to see what this next year brings. My hope is that it brings more life lessons, more memories, and most importantly, little moments that bring joy every day.

 To those who read my blog posts when I started writing them sitting in my college dorm room, thank you for sticking with me! And, to those who started following along as I now write them on weekend with my dog curled up on my lap back home, thank you for stopping by.

I hope my blog brings you a little bit of joy, like it does for me every day.

Here’s to a new year, a new chapter, and taking life one day at a time.

xoox

Elspeth

Categories
Fashion

Fall Outfit Round-Up

Hi guys! HappyWednesday. I hope your week is off to a great start.

Now that we are in the midst of fall, I thought it was time for a fall outfit roundup. To be honest, the weather has been fairly mild, so I still am wearing some summer clothes and dresses. Some mornings its really chilly but then by 3:00 in the afternoon, it’s 75 degrees, it makes planning for outfits very challenging.

I have a feeling the deeper we get into autumn, the more I will have to transition from lighter to darker colors. I am ready to welcome fall with open arms. I’m ready for layers, sweaters and all things cozy!

Here’s two new looks, one for the office. One for a weekend or a day out and about.

Bright red for fall

This work dress is score from Amazon. I placed an order this summer and was really happy with all my purchases. To see some of my other Amazon successes, click here.

This red cotton dress is perfect for summer and fall. It’s affordable, easy to clean and great quality. It’s light enough for summer and the hot days, but a great transitional piece for changing seasons. I may even try and wear it in the winter with a blazer and tights.

I love the Peter Pan collar and the cut and style of the dress.

Overall, this was a major win for me!

If you are looking for a casual look out of the office, I have an option for you too.

A casual look

I went for a fall walk and train ride a few weeks back and it was the perfect time to break out some fall clothes. I got the top from J.Crew for Christmas and couldn’t wait to wear it. I love the detail in the collar and the puffed sleeves. It’s a classic look for spring and fall.

The vest is an oldie but a goodie. I got it from Francesca’s several years ago and it was a staple during my college years. It’s lightweight and perfect for the start of fall.

I paired the outfit with a pair of new leggings from Target. I’ve only worn them once, so the jury is still out on them, but I was pleased with the color and the comfort especially after walking all day. We will see how wear number two goes.

Lastly, I rounded the outfit off with a pair of shoe boot wedges from Payless. I wore them a lot in college but haven’t worn them a lot recently. I was happy they are still comfortable and durable.

Up-close of the top.

I will have plenty more outfits as the season goes on. This is just a start. I can’t wait for more fall weather and outfits. What are your favorite looks for this season?

Categories
Fashion

Summer Outfit RoundUp

Hello all!! I can’t believe it’s August!!! Where has the summer gone?! I do have to say I’ve been making the most of the summer days and nights. From walks, grilling nights, pool days and lots of ice cream. The summer months have also given me more opportunities to try new outfits and looks. Here’s some of my favorite summer looks so far! This will be part of a new series every few months called Season Outfits Roundup. Every few months I will share different outfits I’m wearing for work or play or anything in between.

Most of these are work outfits/professional dresses for this roundup. But, I think between the style and the colors they can be worn for graduation parties, church, cocktail parties, etc. I have linked some of the dresses that I could find online, others I bought last season.

Outfit Number 1: I got this dress from Amazon. The brand is Musol. The fabric is polyester and spandex. I love the light lavender color. I think it could work great for spring or summer. The fabric is lightweight and it stretches to conform to any body type. I also love that its machine washable and fits true to size.

Full length dress.

I wore silver jewelry as accents and then pair of black pumps from Kelly and Katie.

Close up of the neckline and jewelry and makeup.

Outfit Number 2: For another work dress, this royal blue pops for summer. I got this dress from Ross last fall on the clearance rack and I couldn’t wait to wear it this summer. It’s actually a Calvin Klein and it’s all polyester, which is my favorite material/brand to wear at work. I also have the dress in a different style and color but same material because I loved the feel so much. I love the top/sleeves of the royal blue dress, I think that makes it a bit different and stand out. You DO need to dry clean this dress. It fits true to size. I decided once again to wear my black pumps from Kelly and Katie with silver jewelry again.

The full dress.
Same material but different style and color. I got this from Marshalls.

Outfit Number 3: I love a light blue for summer. I loved the color so much I got it in a longer sleeve dress too. I’ll share that one in the fall. I also got this dress from Amazon. The brand is MUXXN. This dress is perfect for spring and summer weather. The neckline is my favorite too. I like the uneven scope. You DO need to dry clean this dress as well. The material is a mix of Rayon, Cotton, and Spandex, so it’s a more stretchy material if that makes sense. I have this same fabric in an orange dress which I really like.

Full length of the dress
Close up of neckline and jewelry.
Different color and style but same material, purchased through Amazon
Again different style and color but same material. Also purchased through Amazon.

Outfit Number 4: Sometimes, you just want to throw on an easy dress while still looking professional and this does the trick. It’s both cotton and polyester. This is also an Amazon purchase. The brand is VFShow. I love the bold colors on the top of the blue, white and black. I like the soft material and the cuffed sleeves. You can throw this in the washer and dryer which makes clean-up even easier!

Outfit Number 5: I wouldn’t consider this last look as work look. I think this would be better for dinner and drinks out or maybe a picnic. I got this top from Marshall’s last summer and I love the soft pink color. The cross over tie is a fun twist on the top too. It’s also very flowy and light weight which is a win for summer. I got the capris from American Eagle, but I have worn white dress pants to dress the outfit up. To dress it down, you can wear sandals or sneakers, to dress it up I would recommend wearing heels.

That’s a roundup of some outfits I’ve been wearing this summer for work and play. I wear a lot more work clothes compared to play clothes haha! Amazon has been a great place for deal and fun colors and styles of dresses. I often have luck at Marshall’s, T.J.Maxx and Ross‘ too! Where are your favorite places to shop?!

Categories
Fashion

Shopping my Closet

It’s been a while since I’ve done a fashion post. BecauseI have to dress up every day for work, I do a lot of shopping in the store, but I also shop my closet a lot too. I love to mix and match outfits and looks for different functions, events and looks. 

Here’s a few looks that I’m loving right now.

Look number 1

I wear a lot of black. In the fall and winter I have black dresses, tops, pants and skirts. It’s an easy, go-to, color that looks slimming and it’s also super versatile. You can dress it up or down depending on what you are feeling. Even though black is worn more in the winter months, it can be also worn on occasion n the summer which brings me to my look today.

A silk black blouse with black dress pants and a pair of pumps. I’ve had all these pieces in my closet and paired them all together for an outfit for work. The sleeveless blouse is perfect for summer. I got the blouse from Marshalls last summer. The black trousers are great for on the go and busy days, I got mine from Talbots. I chose the pump because they are versatile in all seasons. I’ve had these shoes for years. They are by Kelly and Katie and I got them from DSW. You can wear them with black tights in the winter or with black pants in the summer on those breezy days.

Look number 2

Another classic look is a summer dress. I wear a lot of dresses to work, and I love looks that are bold and bright. This dress was one I picked up late last season and I couldn’t wait to wear it this summer. I love the classic colors of pink, blue, and white. They are softer colors but also speak volumes. It’s a lightweight dress but has the formal feel to it. I got this dress from Ross Dress for Less last year. It’s a hit or miss for Ross for me, sometimes, I find great dresses, other times, I leave empty handed. My best advice is to always keep checking back. I wore this dress with a pair of blue pumps, but you can easily wear a flats, loafers or even sandals to change the look of the outfit. I would suggest wearing a navy blue or white shoe. This would be great to wear for work, a semi-formal occasion or a dinner.

Look number 3

My third and final look is a bright dress that screams summer fun. Once again, I got it late last season and couldn’t wait to wear it in the summer. Besides the bright color and the feel of the dress, the neckline is a favorite of mine. I also got this dress from Marshalls last year and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! I think it stands out without being too bold. I wore this dress with a pair of white pumps but you can easily wear sandals or a kitten heel for a different style.

These are three looks that I’m loving this summer. I got them from a variety of affordable places that carry name brand items. These are all more dressed up looks for the summer months. I will have a roundup of casual outfits coming up soon. Until then, what looks are you loving this summer? Let me know below!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #123

LOTD

Hi everyone! Happy Thursday! This has been a busy week but I am ready for the weekend. It’s my school’s homecoming weekend so I am very excited to see old friends, spend time with family and get in the school spirit for the weekend. It will be a fun time. Before I get to all the fun this weekend, I want to share an outfit that I wore last week and immediately fell in love with it and had to share!

This outfit is perfect for meetings and presentations and going to class and even good for a day at the office. 

This last semester has been a very busy one, between classes, work, meetings and applying for jobs, every day is different. I like to choose outfits that can be versatile for the day, no matter what I am doing. 

Ready for the day.

I got these dress pants from The Limited. I love that they are comfortable and wash well but also are a dress pant. I do have a lot of black in my wardrobe, so the navy blue breaks up my style. 

I opted for a simple white shirt for my top. I got this top from GAP, and I love the material and how it still looks new after several washes. White and black shirts are a must in my closet. 

The whole ensemble

I decided to add a pop of color to my outfit with this red blazer. I love this blazer because you can wear it in any season, its light for summer, warm for fall, festive for winter and Christmas and then bright for spring. It can also dress up a dress, dress pants or a skirt. I love to wear it when I need to change up what I have been wearing. 

I added suede shoe boots for this outfit to get into the fall spirit, plus it also adds height to my outfit. I got these shoe boots from Shoe Carnival and they have held up so well through the years. 

I decided to finish off my outfit with silver jewelry and red lipstick with neutral makeup to match the jacket. 

Up close of make up
Red nails for the win

Overall, this outfit was chic and effortless to pull off. It worked perfect for days when I had a lot going on and it worked for every function I had to attend. 

I hope you all kick off October this weekend by doing something fun. Happy Fall friends!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #110

LOTD

Hey guys! 

Happy Thursday and more importantly, Happy Fourth of July! Today is such a special day not only to remember those you gave their lives for our country. They paid the ultimate price for our freedom. The Fourth of July is one of my favorite summer holidays. My family and I always throw a big picnic with swimming, grilling, and family. What more could you ask for?! 

If you are still looking for a last minute outfit or some yummy treats to take to your picnic, you can check out this post here. If you are throwing a family picnic, you can check out this post all about planning for your party!

Today’s look of the day is so versatile, you can wear it to a casual Friday at the office, a low-key dinner get together, or even a more dressier picnic. If you have been following my blog for a while, you know how much I love to wear outfits on more than one occasion. 

I love these white capris. Perfect for an early day at work, family barbecues, drinks with the girls, or a day shopping. I got these at American Eagle a few years back and I have gotten so many uses out of them, truly one of the best purchases from American Eagle. 

This blue and white blouse is from Old Navy that I got on sale. I have worn it to work before with dress pants, but I love how it looks dressed down with capris. I may even try a pair of white shorts with it. 

Lastly, these slip-on shoes have been my go-to for the summer. They really add a pop to any outfit you are wearing and they are comfortable. I got this pair at Marshalls. I love all the unique things I find there.

Where would you wear this outfit out to? Work? Date night? Family picnic? Let me know.

Have a wonderful and safe fourth of July!

Always remember…land of the free because of the brave!