(Daily Look 1, 2 & 3)

Reader Question

I am starting a new job this fall and want to update my work wardrobe with classic, neutral pieces (especially multi-seasonal items, blazers, and shoes). I would also like my outside-of-work wardrobe to reflect a more mature (yet still fun!) me. What would you recommend?- Carolyn R.

Congratulations on your new job! When building a workwear wardrobe, focus on versatility. How many different tops will you be able to pair with a skirt? Will a dress work from summer through fall with the addition of a layer or two? Would a navy blazer or a camel blazer coordinate better with the other pieces in your closet? High-quality business casual clothing can be an investment, but if you opt for items you can style in countless ways, your cost-per-wear may drop in dollars.

Don’t be afraid to stick to a particular color palette you always gravitate toward (this is my go-to!) to ensure you’ll be able to mix and match as many pieces as possible, while always wearing something you feel amazing in. A few classic, neutral, budget-friendly workwear pieces I’m loving right now are this timeless navy blazer, this boatneck silk blouse, these wide-leg trousers, and the Beatrice shirtdress from the August Gal Meets Glam Collection. For higher investment pieces, Theory is one of my favorite sources–I styled a work-ready outfit from their collection in this recent blog post.

If your office requires suits or has a strict dress code, focus on pieces with subtle details. A tailored bow, ruffles, a subtle print, or a timeless texture show your style while still remaining office-appropriate.

Shoes are one of the best opportunities to add a touch of personality to your outfit, both in and out of the office. I love these navy loafers, these classic flats, these cap-toe pumps, and these scalloped block heels. Each of these shoes would be beautiful additions to a professional wardrobe, but would work for the weekend too–style them with a relaxed sweater and cropped pants, a tweed jacket and denim, or a fall Gal Meets Glam Collection dress.

P.S. We have some beautiful pieces in our September Collection that would make perfect office wardrobe staples. Mark your calendar for September 19!

Reader Question

I am a shoe lover, but sometimes, I find that I wear the same shoes over and over again. How do you make sure you wear yours regularly?- Lindsey B.

I certainly have a few go-to pairs of shoes, like my Chloe scalloped flats, and Castaner espadrilles. For shoes, or any other item of clothing in your closet, I’m a big believer in not saving pieces you love for special occasions. Wearing a favorite pair of shoes on a regular Wednesday can make the whole day happier! To inspire you to mix up your shoe selection, be sure to store your shoes in a way that lets you see your full collection. If you don’t have a specific shoe shelf (like this one, a bookshelf with adjustable shelves can work too. Don’t have space to display every pair? Rotate your shoes by season (I store out-of-season shoes in these containers, which I slip under the bed), or switch out the shoes on display every month. As well as helping keep some of your favorite footwear at the front of your mind, this is also a helpful way to take inventory of what you own, what needs to be repaired, and what needs to be replaced.