a week of work wardrobe basics: pencil skirt.

another staple in my work wardrobe is a black pencil skirt.

it functions the same as black pants, but allows you to show off your feminine curves...and your shoes. i'm wearing simple black pumps (also on my list), but switch them out for a colorful, strappy pair and you have an outfit worthy of happy hour drinks.

two things to consider:

fit: a pencil skirt should be fitted but not tight. too loose,

and it'll spin around. too tight, and you'll be uncomfortable.

length: a pencil skirt should fall at or just below the knees.

too short, and you'll be tugging at it all day. plus, your knees are a "skinny" point in your silhouette. a skirt that hits at the knees will be slimming and give you that hourglass shape,

if you so desire.

invest in a good black one first, then explore

other fun prints and textures.

do you know who created the pencil skirt?

scroll down for the answer.

worn here with a simple creme blouse. add color to this neutral combo with a bright cardigan, colorful skinny belt, or fun bag.

to elongate: tuck in your blouses.

to further accentuate curves: pair with a peplum top.

(bcbg skirt; JustFab uptown tote; nine west shoes)

try these:

 

french designer, christian dior, introduced the pencil skirt in the late 1940s using the term "H-line" (as opposed to A-line) to describe its straight and narrow shape. its predecessor, the hobble skirt, was created by another french designer, paul poiret, in the early 1900s. it was coined hobble because it literally hobbled the wearer with its slim hemlines.

 source: ehow, wikipedia

in case you missed it:

monday's black pants

a week of work wardrobe basics: black pants.

this week, it's all about work wardrobe basics.

depending on where you live and what you do, your basics may differ, but i've found 12 key pieces that continue to work for me. i'll highlight a few this week and end with the full list.

black dress pants are essential to every wardrobe. they can be worn with practically anything...tees, silk blouses, and sweaters. you can even pair it with a black blazer if a suit is needed.

invest in a well-made pair, and you will always feel confident. choose one that is fitted, structured, and doesn't wrinkle easily. if you must have a stretch wasitband, make sure it's a thicker fabric. to elongate your legs, the length should be long enough to cover your shoes without touching the ground. cigarette pants in ankle length also work, but i would save the capris for the weekend.

paired here with a long-sleeved button-down blouse (which is also on my list), and a bright clutch/ipad case for a splash of color.

while i love a good arm stack, i usually streamline for the office. a statement ring, a couple of bracelets, and a simple necklace works for me. you have seen these often on the blog.

late night cupcakes from a neighbor.

(old navy top; bebe pants; jessica simpson shoes; mark. clutch)

here's a few you might like:

the white shoe rule.

i once read [years ago] that you should never wear white shoes.

why? because it brings attention to your feet...and ultimately, you want people to look at you, not your feet. (unless you have really cute shoes and want people to look at your feet, right?) well, i've stuck to that rule all this time, because 1) they are in-your-face bright, and 2) they remind me of prom or wedding shoes.

but white shoes have really evolved, and with all the cute styles now, i might actually consider purchasing a pair.

this kellen wedge from JustFab was the perfect baby step for me. the two-tone black and white allowed me to test the waters while staying in my comfort zone. plus, it's really, really comfortable. check out this week's JustFab promotion below.

do you or would you wear white shoes?

*     *     *

JustFab's Girls' Night In

all $39.95 styles are buy one, get one at 40% off.

code: GNIBOGO40

5/17 (10:00am PST) - 5/18 (11:59pm PST)

*while supplies last, no rainchecks, discout valid on multiple purchases.

here's a few of my favorites:

hudson bag in purple.

i'm carrying it here. i always receive compliments

on this bag's vibrant color.

astoria            +            kellen