Monday 8 October 2018

Ruffle Dresses In The Office: Printed And Plain with Purple Balenciaga Work

Like anyone with a large wardrobe, there are many different factors that come into play when picking what to wear. Mood, planned activities, weather... however the only reason I wore these dresses was because I saw them hanging in my wardrobe and realised I hadn't worn them in a while! They are sleeveless, but it was easy to layer them up for cold mornings.

While both of these dresses look different, they are exactly the same style with a ruffled neckline, sheer top layer with opaque lining, and an elasticated waist. Because one is printed and one is plain, they look like two completely different dresses.

What I wore:

camel trench, bleu louis vuitton monogram shawl, balenciaga work bag | away from blue

Balenciaga raisin purple 2009 giant silver G21 hardware work bag | away from the blue

office selfie leopard print ruffle dress grey cardigan | working mum style | away from blue

awayfromblue instagram cobalt Louis Vuitton scarf with animal print dress trench coat cold weather office outfit
Jacket: Barkins beige trench coat 
EarringJeanswest Evy dangly earring
ScarfLouis Vuitton monogram shawl in bleu
DressJeanswest ruffle neckline animal print dress
ShoesMarc by Marc Jacobs black logo plaque ballet flats
BagBalenciaga raisin purple 2009 giant silver G21 hardware work bag

Why I wore it:

While this dress does have a lot going on - it's a busy animal print, with a lot of ruffles on top - it never feels overpowering. The neutral colours make it really easy to accessorise. I went with some bright colours, picking the blue Louis Vuitton scarf and the purple Balenciaga work bag for another touch of colour.

While it is spring, when I wore this a few weeks ago it was still quite cold in the mornings, so my cosy trench coat and some fleece lined tights were much needed additions for my early morning commute.

As I wonder every time I wear this dress, I'm not sure why I don't wear it more often! It's a beautiful piece and got me a few compliments through the work day.


Last worn: camel trench, dangly earrings, Louis Vuitton shawl, animal print ruffle dress, Marc Jacobs ballet flats, Balenciaga purple work bag.

Other ways to wear: camel trench and burgundy pants, Louis Vuitton shawl and black pencil skirt outfit, animal print ruffle dress and blazer, Marc Jacobs ballet flats and sheath dress, Balenciaga purple work bag.

Perfect for pregnancy: camel trench in first trimesterprinted dress hiding 4 month baby bump.


What's In My Bag: Balenciaga Work Edition





What I wore:

berry pink ruffle detail dress with navy macintosh and bird print scarf, purple Balenciaga work | away from blue

slouchy purple Balenciaga work bag | away from the blue

awayfromtheblue instagram navy macintosh coat ruffle dress with purple balenciaga work bag
JacketJeanswest Monica Mac coat in Indigo
Scarf: navy bird print scarf
DressJeanswest deep pink ruffle neckline dress (updated version)
ShoesWalnut Melbourne 'Ava' black lizard ballet flats (also available in silver)
BagBalenciaga raisin purple 2009 giant silver G21 hardware work bag

Why I wore it:

This dress is just as bold as the one in the first outfit, although it's due to the colour rather than the print. It's a lovely plain dress, a very berry toned pink so it looks more red here, but it looks more pink in other photos. I wouldn't ordinarily go with a purple bag for a red dress, but felt this reddish pink was pink enough that I could wear the combo. I've worn this dress with another purple bag before too.

The only downside to this outfit was that I realised on the way to work that the 'I think I've forgotten something' feeling I have most mornings I go to work was actually valid. I'd left my cardigan behind at home. Since we moved to 'hot desking' at work, I don't have a permanent desk or a desk drawer to stash a cardigan in and have to take one to work each day. I ended up taking my scarf off and tying it into a kind of kimono as I needed my shoulders covered for a few meetings. I figured a strange cover up was better than no cover up, plus the air con was particularly cold that day. It may also have felt colder because I was coming down with the bug the boys had.

So while I liked this outfit when I put it on in the morning, the lack of a cosy layer to cover up the sleeveless design and feeling a little unwell meant I wasn't too happy with it in the end!


Last worn: navy macintosh, bird print scarf, berry ruffle neckline dress, Walnut Melbourne flats, Balenciaga work bag (above).

Other ways to wearnavy macintosh and colourful pants, bird print scarf and stripes, berry ruffle neckline dress and LV speedy, Walnut Melbourne flats and skinny jeans, Balenciaga work bag.

Perfect for pregnancyWalnut Melbourne flats in second trimester.



Ruffle Dresses Under $50:




How You Can Wear It:

Ruffle dresses are perfect for a business casual workplace. A bright colour or print makes it a fun change from a classic black pencil skirt. Just make sure to bring something to cover up with in meetings or to battle the office air-con, particularly if your dress is sleeveless like these 😂


Linking up with Trend Spin, Turning Heads, Confident Twosday, Style Sessions, Fashion Frenzy, Style On The Daily, Fashion Files, Chic and Stylish.


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76 comments:

  1. It's so good that you rediscovered these dresses in your wardrobe, because they are both so pretty! It's great that you can layer them up and get wear out of them in the cooler weather. Both the animal print and pink dresses are so pretty and I'm sure they look just as lovely in summer! It's so great that they are both so versatile and can be worn year round. Hope you had a great weekend and a happy week ahead, Mica! XXX

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes they really should be worn more often, both such cute dresses!

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  2. Hi Happy new week! You shopped your closet and found some cute dresses. Each dress makes a bold statement and will transition beautifully into your spring season! Also great way to re purpose your scarf:)

    Well, it is still summer in autumn here. I am enjoying it and going hiking today with hubby:) I pray that you have a wonderful day!

    Tiff
    http://www.dashoffashandfinance.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I love rediscovering pieces in my wardrobe! Your hike sounds lovely, hope you had fun :)

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  3. Love how the scarf adds a pop of color, beautiful!
    www.thesweetestclementine.com

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  4. LOL yes, I've definitely chosen and outfit just because I haven't worn a certain piece for awhile! I hate to have things in my closet that I'm not using - provided it's in season, of course! That leopard dress is SO cute! Great find!
    Gina || On the Daily Express

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, my knits are winter only pieces! But it's good to try different things and wear other pieces as much as possible, these dresses were so overdue a wear!

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  5. Nice rediscovering your dresses, they are super beautiful
    new post
    https://www.melodyjacob.com/2018/10/exclusive-rihan-lace-up-diamante-suede.html

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  6. I love how you get so creative with your clothing, Mica!! I used to layer shirts under my sleeveless things all the time, just for the fact that washing the shirt is easier than the dress (or dry clean item).
    And your right---that animal print dress is fabulous...I can't wait to see more of it!
    XOXO
    Jodie
    www.jtouchofstyle.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Jodie! I really need to wear layers under my dresses more often, it's a great look and one I don't wear nearly enough!

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  7. Ooh I love the printed one!! And so true, I never would have guessed they were the same style
    https://www.closet-fashionista.com/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. They do look so different! I think that's why I keep both!

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  8. I love that animal print dress! Hope you had a great weekend!

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  9. I love how you are intentional about wearing all of your wardrobe. Great way to style these dresses for winter.

    Amy Ann
    Straight A Style

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Amy! It's good to get more wear from things year-round!

      Delete
  10. Your office outfits are so cute! I have a few dresses that I don't wear enough and overtime I wear them, I wonder why I don't wear them more lol!

    Lizzie
    www.lizzieinlace.com

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  11. Oh man, I love when I find an old dress I used to love and stopped wearing for whatever reason. Closet shopping is the best! I adore your dress - Animal print is very on-trend!

    xo Deborah
    Coffee, Prose, and Pretty Clothes

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can rediscover some great pieces shopping your own wardrobe!

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  12. I love the leopard dress, it's so cute, and with the trench, it's kind of the perfect spring look!
    Chic on the Cheap

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  13. Such beautiful dress on you Mica. Simple, but yet so stylish. Love both outfit. You look office beautiful. :-)
    Have a blessed week.

    https://www.missymayification.co.uk

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  14. These dresses are gorgeous! I really like to rediscover some clothes from the wardrobe, it's almost like to buy new clothes but without spending money.

    Have a wonderful day!:)

    jointyicroissanty

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  15. That stinks that’s you forgot your cardigan at home. At least you figured out a way to cover your shoulder for the meeting.

    http://www.amysfashionblog.com/blog-home

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes I was so frustrated I forgot it, but the scarf worked in a pinch!

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  16. Ugh...AC at work is the pits. I remember when I worked in an office and had the same issues. Anyhoo, I do love both these dresses. The ruffles are great on both these, and I love the combo of the red dress with the purple bag and blue jacket:)

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    Replies
    1. I'm happy we have relocated and my desk is further away from the aircon vent, but the meeting rooms are still so cold! haha!

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  17. Ugh, these modern office layouts where you don't even get a permanent desk...don't get me started! I'm so glad I have my own desk!

    Love both of these dresses - your colour accessorizing is perfect. I really love the bright red with the blue and purple. The leopard dress is a fun look on you too. Happy week!

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    Replies
    1. I miss my own desk sometimes! I have a locker now so I might leave a cardigan in there! :)

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  18. Oh, that blue scarf looks great with the leopard print. Love your red dress too.

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    Replies
    1. It's a great scarf, goes with so much! :)

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  19. I always love your sty;e with scarves and leggings
    You always pulled it off

    Much Love,
    Jane | The Bandwagon Chic

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  20. That first dress is so pretty! The leopard print is so much fun and can be worn with so many colors and patterns!

    http://www.mylittlenest.org

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  21. I hope you didn't end up getting sick.

    Both looks are beautiful. I really like the leopard print with pops of color in the first outfit and the red dress in the second is lovely.

    Kathrin | Polar Bear Style

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  22. i love how you styled it :D

    http://alafolie-toinsanity.blogspot.com/

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  23. It's really great to rediscover clothes from our own wardrobe. I love those dresses and also loved how you styled and layered it. I especially loved the second outfit. Loving the red dress with blue coat.
    Love.
    http://www.rakhshanda-chamberofbeauty.com/

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  24. I love your Balenciaga bags, I can't believe you can put a lot of stuff including magazine and notebook. I don't have a big Balenciaga maybe it's time for me to get one. Have a great week!

    www.busyandfab.com

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    Replies
    1. Yes you can fit so much into the work bag! It's great for the office (ha!) and travelling too!

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  25. The perils of layering a summer dress for Fall... Glad you at least had a scarf to be creative. I never tire of seeing leopard print and love it with the purple bag!

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  26. How good you took this solution with the scarf as you forgot the cardigan for your second look! Sometimes taking all essentials for work is challenging I know what you mean and even more difficult if you don't have an own desk as in your case. But I love both looks! You took the right decision to wear these dresses and I agree you should wear them more often! Happy week!
    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
    www.dressedwithsoul.com

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    Replies
    1. Yes I'm glad we have moved now and I have a locker - I might have to leave a cardigan in there in case I forget again!

      Delete
  27. I love shopping in my own closet! It's a great way to rediscover outfits or favorites for fall! Great outfits, I love them both!

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    Replies
    1. Yes always so fun to unbox or go through older pieces in a new season! :)

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  28. Love your office outfits and that purple Balenciaga is sooo pretty =)

    Fashion and Cookies - fashion and beauty blog

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  29. I love that you like to wear so much color, it looks great on you! http://marciabtravels.blogspot.com

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    Replies
    1. Thank you! I've been trying to be more adventurous with colour lately! :)

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  30. Those do look like totally different dresses--the fun print and bold color make them both so unique and pretty. I love that the leopard print is in a more subdued color; it makes it so wearable.
    I've heard of places getting rid of offices/assigned spaces and I think that would be hard to adjust to. I like coming to the same office every day!

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    Replies
    1. Yes it took some getting used to, but we have been doing it a while now :) And yes, they do look so different! Both such great pieces :)

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  31. I love both of these looks! The first outfit is my favorite.

    x,
    S | Je M'appelle Chanel

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  32. It's great that you rediscovered both of these dresses because they are lovely! I love how different they are. The leopard print looks great with the blue scarf, and the pop of color the other dress gives is so fun. That stinks that you forgot your cardigan, but smart thinking using the scarf as a kimono. I hope you're having a wonderful October so far!

    x Kara | http://karascloset.net

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Kara! I love the colour combos in these outfits too :)

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  33. I love the blue LV scarf you wore with that gorgeous animal print dress. Such a great look. The second styling is also lovely. I'm a big fan of red. That red dress looks great on you, and I do like how you paired it with a blue coat and a purple bag.

    https://modaodaradosti.blogspot.com/

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  34. Such a great outfit! Love that bag!
    xx- Nina

    http://www.stylingwithnina.com/2018/10/how-to-style-basic-cardigan.html

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  35. That ruffle dress is gorgeous I can see why you get compliments on it. And red dress is so on trend as red and H to T red is having a moment.

    Allie of
    www.allienyccom

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  36. Animal print is so in this year so this is a perfect outfit! I adore the red dress though even more. I love the pop of color in the cooler months and this one layered so nicely over the tights but I could see how nice it would be in warmer weather.

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    Replies
    1. Yes when I think of animal print I always forget I have this dress, haha! Should definitely wear it more often :)

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  37. You are such a loving soul :D Always love to see your smile on your posts!
    With love and sunshine,

    Patricia & Miguel
    www.freeoversea.com

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  38. It's amazing that both dresses are essentially the same style, but I am currently drawn to animal print, so the first is my favorite! I really like the red dress on you! <3 I hope you had a lovely weekend. <3

    -PerlaGiselle | iamperlita.com

    Say hello and let’s follow each other <3 | INSTAGRAM

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  39. Oh, I love the red dress! Even though I am not really into ruffles I agree, the one color makes it still work without being too overpowering.

    Anne - Linda, Libra, Loca

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    1. They are very wearable ruffles I find! :)

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  40. I think it's good to wear pieces that you've not worn in a while. Shopping my closet always gives me new inspiration for combinations. I love your first dress outfit. <3 Hope you enjoy the rest of the week.
    FASHION TALES

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    Replies
    1. It's amazing the new outfit ideas you can come up with when browsing your wardrobe! :)

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  41. Seriously buying the same style of an item of clothing, but in different colours is my favourite thing to do - Especially for the office!! It just makes every morning so much easier hahaha!

    The Hidden Thimble

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    Replies
    1. Yes! It is such a good idea for workwear! :)

      Delete
  42. Wow Mica, I admire the fierce dress choices! Very bold and impactful. I hope you are recovering or have recovered from the bugs. That must be uncomfortable to have no cardigan for insulation in a chilled office. Urrghh, it's one of those things I cannot stand either. When I forgot to bring a layering piece one casual rainy evening, I simply refused to enter the mall and just went back home. Please wear the animal print dress more often, it is beautiful :)

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    Replies
    1. Thank you, I am fully recovered! :) The aircon is always so cold in places like the office and the mall - I understand why you went home!

      Delete
  43. You always style things so pretty! The plum Balenciaga is still a love of mine and I like the looks you put together with it, Mica! I hope you're well xx.

    Raindrops of Sapphire

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  44. Both dresses are so pretty! I love the berry colored on with your printed scarf! I was just thinking about pulling out some of my fall dresses and wearing them with tights since the weather is getting so much cooler here lately!

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    Replies
    1. hehe, you're thinking about pulling out your tights as I'm thinking about packing them away!

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  45. The color combination on the second outfit is particularly cool! I really like putting brighter colors together, and the red dress goes very nicely with the bag.

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  46. Love both dresses, and the leopard dress is so lovely with your blue scarf. You have such pretty scarves and I love the pop of color. You know I love your BBag!
    thanks for linking!
    jess xx
    www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com

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  47. That is such a pretty leopard print dress.
    Not overpowering or too bold, just right.

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    Replies
    1. It is so easy to wear, I really need to wear it more often! :)

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  48. Lovely look dear, especially the first one. Can't get enough of that gorgeous pop of blue!
    Jessica | notjessfashion.com

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  49. Thank you all for your kind comments :)

    ReplyDelete

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