I recently shared the glen plaid trend for fall and today we’ll look at inspirational looks. You can dress the plaid up or down and often the pieces are work-appropriate. Feel free to vote on your favorite below!
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I recently shared the glen plaid trend for fall and today we’ll look at inspirational looks. You can dress the plaid up or down and often the pieces are work-appropriate. Feel free to vote on your favorite below!
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#4
Glen plaid (aka Prince of Wales or checked plaid) is in this Fall. The plaid consists of dark and light stripes alternating to create a crossing pattern of irregular checks. You’ll see slight variations on the theme with brown, black, grey and white being the most common colors and sometimes red, green, or blue as highlight colors. Here are a few of my favorite picks:
The easiest way to add Prince of Wales plaid to your wardrobe is to incorporate a pair of pants. You can generally pair with all your black, white, or navy tops and additional colors depending on the plaid accent.
Over-sized blazers are in this fall and a prince of wales version is an extra trendy look. Often best on tall ladies, this can be worn to the office or casually (See Wendy’s lookbook for casual look inspiration).
Not as common are Prince of wale plaid tops but they are easy to incorporate in your wardrobe. They are especially great for the office and easily paired with black pants.
The bell sleeve blazer is a modern alternative for those of you who reach for your basic black cardigan or blazer to stay warm in the air conditioning at work – a slight twist on the usual blazer. I’ve popped the Zara version on a couple happy clients. The silhouette generally suits all body types and it’s easy to incorporate in your professional wardrobe.
Alice and Olivia Blazer (Bloomingdales)
Pricier version and suited for tall ladies
Mango: Great for the office. Also comes in red if you’re feeling bold
Zara: My favorite of the bunch as you can wear this casually as well.
Slightly cropped length works well on petites
Many of my clients, especially younger ones, are unsure how to choose a blazer. Blazers can seem old, stuffy, and aging if you’re not used to wearing them. The key is to find a modern cut, like the current tuxedo blazers! They typically come in black, white, or white with black lapel, and they have slim lapels with usually 1 low-placed button. Today I’m sharing 4 tuxedo blazer looks to inspire you. Vote on your favorite below!
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This is the second post in my Summer Office-wear series. Learn how to dress for the heat and still look professional! Check out the first post: Summer office-attire shopping guide
I can’t emphasize enough how valuable a modern, well-fitting lightweight blazer is for the office. A blazer may be the last item you want to wear in the Summer but there is really no substitute when you need to look your best professionally. A lightweight version is the perfect compromise. Look for linen, chambray, lace, eyelet and other light fabrics. This season you’ll find many options with white, denim, blush, and grey as my favorite color choices. Fluorescent colors are even in if you’re feeling bold!
Also remember: If you find a blazer that suits your casual style as well, you can wear it over a Summer dress or t-shirt and instantly have a chic and sophisticated outfit for the evenings or weekends. Love the versatility!
Here are some options to check out:
The striped lining adds a unique element to this blazer. You can wear it with almost any color but be careful pairing it with other blues. I like how it’s styled here with black pants and a white shirt. Very simple but chic!
In addition to the blue, this jacket comes in white, black, and fluorescent green! It’s a classic cut and the nipped waist is flattering. Keep in mind that linen creases and there’s no getting around it! I like the look of linen in the Summer but if you feel the creases cut down on the level of professionalism, pass on this and choose another material that won’t rumple as easily.
Another linen blazer but cut for petites. I just bought this blazer in a chambray (not currently available online) and it’s quickly becoming my go-to Summer jacket. It’s a light, modern cut and it fits my petite frame exactly right!
A lace blazer may seem too mother-of-the-bride for you but they’re on trend and popping up everywhere in stores. The key is to find a modern, slim cut like this blazer. Despite the black color it looks light and fresh for the Summer – Don’t rule it out!
Another lace option in white. This is slightly cropped – Great for wearing over dresses or tunics to give yourself waist definition. Love how it’s paired here with a bright, fun color.
I hope I’ve convinced you that blazers don’t have to be burdensome and heavy in the Summer. Choose a lightweight fabric in a modern cut and you’ll make it through the heat in style!