Office-friendly vs. casual
There are days when I would wear anything that makes me look like I mean business. And then, there are days when nothing but total comfort will do. Therefore, I avoid heels, shirts and tailored trousers. What do you do to make your comfy look office-friendly enough to blend in, but chic enough to stand out? I’d whip up something similar to this greyscale look, but make it a little less casual.
Working out the rules
First, what does comfort mean to you? I choose flat shoes, jeans-type trousers, a long-sleeved top, and a cozy blazer. You can pick whatever you’re most drawn to.
Second, what makes your look office-friendly? Yes, colours – or the lack thereof. I just grab some black, grey and white pieces and go from there. What else? Plain, minimal cuts, classic neutral shapes.
Third, how do you inject some style and glamour back into such a plain look? It’s two things for me, essentially. One is playing with textures – a tactile fabric, coated denim, the smooth glow of leather. The other is the metallic touches. See how the buckle, the zips, buttons, horsebit details and the tiny embellishments on the necklace add something of their own? True, there’s lots of them but they are not overpowering, just forming a unique pattern across the look.
In summary, pick it out, tone it down, shake it up.
Today’s look
When I want to be super-comfortable, I wear a soft blazer with a long-sleeved fine layer underneath. There is more to soft blazers than flimsy and shapeless cotton jersey. I recommend thick cotton velvet (lined in pure cotton), or boiled wool (mine is unlined). I have both types from Zara and I can say they are uber-trusty pieces!
Usually, plain black jeans are the best. This time I just wanted to give this biker pair a spin. To stay on the safe side, I like to keep my shoes black but I bet white soles would work well too.
Finally, the booties – the most amazing loafer boots on the high street. I have received so many compliments and questions about them. Good news, they are still available, now at a half price! Get them while you can 🙂
Scroll down for the deets – I have linked in the items and great similars.
Love,
Gabriella
wool blazer: Zara (similar military here, minimal here and here)
sweater: Bershka (similar here, here and here)
choker necklace: New Look (plus similar here and here)
biker jeans: Miss Selfridge (similar here)
loafer boots: Topshop Apple-Pie
sunglasses: Ray-Ban
