Showing posts with label pencil skirt. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pencil skirt. Show all posts

Monday 14 May 2018

Dressing Up Tees For The Office: Business Casual Style With Pencil Skirts and Blazers

The benefit of working in a business casual environment is that it's perfectly acceptable to wear a tee to work. It was a staple for casual Fridays for me (back when I worked 5 days a week) but I thought I'd give it a go again recently. With some heels, a pencil skirt and a blazer, I felt my tees were dressed up perfectly for my office - particularly when my boss is wearing jeans. I do have a very casual business casual office.

What I wore:

grey v-neck tee in office with cream blazer heels pencil skirt and purple balenciaga work bag | away from the blue

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

awayfromblue instagram | office outfit with grey tee jersey blazer pencil skirt and heels
Jacket:  Zara cream jersey blazer
Necklace: Lovisa wooden statement bead necklace
Tee: Spectrum basic v-neck tee in grey marl
SkirtAsos blue textured lace pencil skirt
ShoesWittner 'Mimi' heels in mushroom
BagBalenciaga raisin purple 2009 giant silver G21 hardware work bag

Why I wore it:

I didn't like this outfit as much as I'd hoped. Last time I wore this cream blazer with grey I wasn't very impressed with the final outfit. I decided to try it again with a grey tee this time, one of my favourite grey pieces, so I was sure I'd love it. I really didn't like this combo though. It was a comment from Sheila that explained it to me: the grey tee is a cool neutral, the cream blazer a warm neutral, and they are both a similar intensity of colour, so they don't look great together.

It's definitely not going to be a combination I repeat again in a hurry. I did think about a bright necklace with this in the morning to add some more colour, and think that or a scarf would have helped. I thought the purple Balenciaga work bag would be bright enough but it really wasn't.

It was a really busy day at work though, so it flew by and I didn't have much time to question my outfit choices, other than to kick myself for not taking an extra minute or two to try something different when I looked in the mirror that morning before leaving the house! I forgot my lipstick and mascara that morning too - I think I was still half asleep for a while! 😂


Last worncream jersey blazergrey v-neck tee, ASOS lace pencil skirtmushroom heelsBalenciaga purple work bag.

Other ways to wearcream jersey blazer and a-line skirtgrey v-neck tee and kimono, ASOS lace pencil skirt, mushroom heels and flaresBalenciaga purple work bag and wrap dress.

Perfect for pregnancycream jersey blazer in second trimestergrey v-neck tee in second trimester, ASOS lace pencil skirt.



Review and Contents of the Balenciaga Work Bag






What I wore:

purple tee with statement necklace jacquard pencil skirt jersey blazer and Bal work | awayfromblue

purple raisin 2009 balenciaga work bag giant silver GSH hardware bag | purple tee with statement necklace jacquard pencil skirt jersey blazer and Bal work | awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue instagram lilac tee purple work bag jacquard pencil skirt blazer and heels
Tee: Spectrum basic v-neck tee in washed lilac

Why I wore it:

Was a little unsure about the lilac tee with the darker purple bag when I was planning this in my head, but I really liked this outfit! Unlike the outfit  above, I think this black blazer matched the outfit nicely, with the black texture on the skirt.

It's really interesting how even if you follow the same outfit formula you can have such different results with the outfits you create! Definitely shows me I still have lots to learn about style :)

What also helped I think was the bright colourful statement necklace to make me look more awake this time, as well as remembering to put my lipstick on! 😂


Last wornblack jersey blazerlilac v-neck teejacquard pencil skirtpatent heels, Balenciaga purple work bag (above).



V-Neck Tees Under $50:






How You Can Wear It:

A tee is one of those pieces you can easily dress up or down just by changing what you wear with it. If you have a more formal dress code these might be casual Friday only options for you. If you have a business casual environment like mine or aren't in a customer facing role then dressing up a casual tee for the office with a blazer, pencil skirt and heels could be a great mid-week outfit idea for you!


Linking up with On Mondays We Link Up, Turning Heads, On Trend, Style Sessions, Trend Spin, Confident Twosday.


Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Monday 23 April 2018

What I Wore To a YouTube Creator Day (And To The Office): Printed Tanks And Pencil Skirts

It's taken me a while to share these office outfits, worn back in March! I wanted to wait until I'd edited the video of the Brisbane YouTube Creator day I went to so you could see what I got up to. It was a lot of fun!

What I wore:

what I wore to Youtube Creator Day Brisbane March 2018 office pencil skirt printed tank purple bag | awayfromblue

Balenciaga raisin purple 2009 giant silver G21 hardware work bag | awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue instagram purple Balenciaga work bag boucle blazer printed tank pencils skirt YouTube Creator Day
Necklace: Uniquely Made with Love Sea Change necklace
TankJeanswest Elissa leaf print tank
SkirtJeanswest zip detail ponte pencil skirt
ShoesMarc by Marc Jacobs metallic mouse flats (on sale in black!)
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagBalenciaga raisin purple 2009 giant silver G21 hardware work bag

Why I wore it:

I was so extremely nervous for this day. Excited too, but mostly nervous! I had been talking a lot on Twitter about it, trying to figure out how things would go. My outfit was full of classic pieces picked to make me feel good. I love this boucle jacket and it helps me feel pulled together. The printed tank, a gift from my mum, is quickly becoming a favourite. A pencil skirt as it's a classic office piece. I did consider bringing jeans or maybe another skirt to change into after, but already my bag was pretty full. I'm glad I kept it simple and wore the same outfit to work and the Creator Day.

You can see in the video that my bag is really full! I picked this one as it's a beautiful colour and coming from my bestie's wardrobe, gives me a little boost of confidence. Plus it fit everything I needed so elegantly. Even if I did end up leaving it on the table at the Creator Day and blocking Eve's view a bit! Sorry Eve! She made a great video recapping her experience there.

The Creator Day was so fun! I learned a lot, took tons of notes, and as you can see from the video, had a blast catching up with some of the YouTube friends I've made this year. It's so strange walking into a room and feeling like you know people, even though you've only known them from their YouTube videos! You can see more in the video below.


Last worn: boucle blazer, leaf print tank, black pencil skirt, gold mouse flats, Balenciaga purple work bag.

Other ways to wearboucle blazer and jeans, leaf print tank worn two ways, black pencil skirt and plaid shirt, gold mouse flats and sheath dress, Balenciaga purple work bag and black dress.

Perfect for pregnancyboucle blazer in third trimester, black pencil skirt in first trimester, gold mouse flats in third trimester.


Brisbane YouTube Creator Day March 2018: How To Win On YouTube!



The video goes into more detail about what I wore, what was in my bag, and shows you some of the fun people I met and things I learned!




What I wore:

polka dot ruffle tank hersey blazer pencil skirt navy and purple autumn work outfit | away from blue

navy polka dot tank, Balenciaga raisin purple 2009 giant silver G21 hardware work bag | away from the blue

awayfromblue instagram jersey blazer cream with grey pencil skirt navy ruffle tank balenciaga work bag
JacketZara cream jersey blazer
Necklace: statement silver plate necklace
TankJeanswest 'Ricky' ruffle front top in midnight
SkirtAsos tailored tab front pencil skirt in grey
ShoesMarc by Marc Jacobs silver tuxedo flats
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagBalenciaga raisin purple 2009 giant silver G21 hardware work bag

Why I wore it:

Despite this outfit following the same outfit formula as the one above, I didn't like it as much. I think the grey pencil skirt and cream blazer didn't look as good together as the black jacket and skirt in the outfit above, I did enjoy wearing this ruffle polka dot print blouse again though! It's been a while between wears. It is strictly a work only piece for me, it feels a bit fancy for stay at home mum days and it's not breastfeeding friendly.

I do like the navy top with the purple Balenciaga work bag though, and I've worn them together before. While I wasn't a fan of all of these pieces together, I like them enough separately so they are all staying in my wardrobe.


Last worn: cream blazer, ruffle print blouse, grey pencil skirt, metallic ballet flats, Balenciaga work bag (above).

Other ways to wear: cream blazer and printed dressruffle print tank and red jeans, grey pencil skirt and floral cami, metallic ballet flats and swing dress, Balenciaga work bag and maxi dress.

Perfect for pregnancy: cream blazer in second trimesterruffle print tank in second trimester, grey pencil skirt in second trimester, metallic flats in third trimester.



More Printed Tanks Under $50:




How You Can Wear It:

Printed tanks are a fun addition to an office outfit, especially if paired with more corporate pieces like pencil skirts and blazers. It's a good way to add some colour if your suit separates are neutral, but you don't have to draw the line there. A colourful bag like this purple Balenciaga tote is another way to add something bright and cheerful to your work wardrobe.


Linking up with Modest Monday, Style File, Turning Heads, Confident Twosday, Style Sessions, Oh Hey Girl, Fashion Frenzy, Style On The Daily, Weekend Wear, Flashback Fashion.



Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Monday 5 March 2018

Chloe Paddington & Wearing Loose Printed Tanks To The Office With Pencil Skirts

The Chloe Paddington was my first ever designer handbag purchase. It might not be worn often (the heavy padlock really isn't kid friendly) but I do still love it. Of course I loved both times I wore it below. Not sure if it was the cooler weather after our heatwaves, or getting my first bag splurge out again to enjoy, but I was so happy in both of these outfits. Printed tank and black pencil skirts, such simple office style.

What I wore:

Jeanswest Elissa leaf print tank black pencil skirt, Chloe Paddington brun Summer office outfit | awayfromblue

2007 Chloe paddington in brun chocolate brown | awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue instagram boho leaf print tank in office black pencil skirt chloe paddington bag
Necklace: Uniquely Made with Love Sea Change necklace
TankJeanswest Elissa leaf print tank
SkirtJeanswest black ponte pencil skirt
ShoesMarc by Marc Jacobs black logo plaque ballet flats
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagChloe Paddington in 2007 Brun

Why I wore it:

This tank was a gift from my mum and it was such a good one, it's looked great with everything I've worn it with so far. See two more ways to wear it here.

I debated a little in the morning which necklace I should wear with the top. The leaf print has so many different colours, it's easy to pick a colour out of the print and wear a matching accessory. In the end I went with blue, of course.

Someone on Instagram contacted me to ask about my experiences with Chloe Paddington bags, and I was happy to chat a little about my first bag obsession. I'm not good with small talk, and meeting new people often leaves me at a loss for words, but if anyone talks handbags they will find it hard to shut me up, haha! After talking about the bag I couldn't resist getting it out again for a wear.

I did add a cardigan to this outfit to cover up in the cold office air con, but it wasn't needed for my commute, the weather was just right.


Last worn: leaf print tank, black pencil skirt with elastic panel, Marc by Marc Jacobs ballet flats, Chloe Paddington bag.

Other ways to wearleaf print tank and pink shorts, black pencil skirt in winter, Marc by Marc Jacobs ballet flats and shorts, Chloe Paddington bag and burgundy pants.

Perfect for pregnancy: pencil skirt and hidden second trimester bump, Chloe Paddy at a few weeks pregnant.



Chloe Paddington Review and Contents:




(yes, it really is that heavy!)

Where To Buy a Chloe Paddington:




What I wore:

crochet print tank, black pencil skirt cream jersey blazer and chloe paddington summer office wear | away from the blue

Jord Cora wood watch with Chloe Paddington padlock bag in 07 brun | away from the blue

awayfromblue instagram black jersey blazer red printed tank chloe paddington bag
JacketZara cream jersey blazer
Necklace: Happiness Boutique turquoise and coral pendant necklace (C/O)
Tank: Emerson crochet lace bib print top
SkirtJeanswest zip detail ponte pencil skirt
ShoesWalnut Melbourne 'Ava' black lizard ballet flats (also available in silver)
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagChloe Paddington in 2007 Brun


Why I wore it:

Since I liked the printed tank and black pencil skirt combination above, I wore it again for my next day in the office. Funnily, this tank was also a gift from my mum, back when I was pregnant. Didn't realise the coincidence in wearing the tanks so close to each other until I put this post together!


As it was a little cooler with some rain forecast, I added the blazer over the top and kept it on pretty much all day. It was a little tricky taking photos - while the rain held off until later in the day, my neighbour (who you can see in the back there) kept walking past as I was trying to take photos. I don't spend long taking photos, just setup the tripod, align the camera then shoot. Still she managed to walk past twice! It was so awkward. I find it weird taking blog photos in front of people, as I'd have no idea what to say if they asked. "I take photos for the internet" sounds normal to another style blogger, but is kinda crazy when you think of it!

The only issue with a Chloe Paddington is the weight - while it was fun carrying it, it was back in its dust bag after these two wears. Twice in a week is enough for me, I have frequent back pain with my diastasis recti so a heavy bag just adds to it unfortunately! I think I'll always love my Paddy though, even if I don't wear it as much as I used to.


Last worn: cream blazer, red crochet detail tank, black pencil skirt, ballet flats, Chloe Paddington (above).

Other ways to wearcream blazer and sheath dress, red crochet detail tank and shorts, black pencil skirt worn over a dress, ballet flats and fit and flare dress, Chloe Paddington and jeans.

Perfect for pregnancy: cream blazer in first trimester, red crochet detail tank in third trimester, black pencil skirt in first trimester, ballet flats in third trimesterChloe Paddy at a few weeks pregnant.



Printed Tanks Under $50:








How You Can Wear It:


A black pencil skirt is an office staple, and it's so easy to pair with a printed piece like these fun printed tanks. Depending on the dress code for your office, you may need to cover up bare shoulders with a blazer. A cardigan is another option if the office aircon is particularly frosty and your dress code isn't as formal.

Linking up with Trend Spin, Turning Heads, Style Sessions, Style On The Daily.


 

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Monday 26 February 2018

Basic Tanks To Take You From Work To Weekend With Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandouliere

If you're trying to build a wardrobe that takes you from SAHM duties to a business casual workplace like I am, you need some basics. When I bought these two tanks I knew they would be pieces I'd be able to get a lot of wear from. They are really basic, a little gathering on the back but otherwise just plain and colourful tanks. Simple tops like this are good to wear to the office as well as the other days I'm a SAHM with the boys.


basic tanks to take you from work to weekend | away from the blue personal style blog

What I wore:

casual tank in the office jersey blazer lace pencil skirt with Louis Vuitton speedy bag | away from blue

blue lace pencil skirt and brown louis vuitton damier emebe speedy bandouliere 30 | away from the blue

awayfromblue instagram casual tank for business corporate office lace pencil skirt and blazer
JacketZara cream jersey blazer
NecklaceEye Candy LA 'Sasha' statement necklace
TankJeanswest Maya gather back tank in mid turquoise
SkirtAsos blue textured lace pencil skirt
ShoesMarc by Marc Jacobs metallic mouse flats (on sale in black!)
Bracelets: the usual plus Cora purpleheart and mother of pearl watch C/O JORD
BagLouis Vuitton Damier Ebene 30 speedy bandouliere

Why I wore it:

An simple, staple office outfit. Closed in shoes, a bag big enough to carry everything needed for a day at work, blazer and a simple basic tank. Even if the heatwave in Brisbane meant that the blazer was quickly taken off after these pictures and only worn in the office air conditioning! It has been such a hot end to summer.

While I love my printed dresses for work, a variation of this outfit is often worn as I love my pencil skirts. A pencil skirt and blazer can have a casual tank underneath if you're in a business casual workplace like I am, or a dressier blouse or button up shirt for more formal environments.

With a basic top and classic plain blazer, you can add more interest to your office outfit with a fun statement necklace or printed pencil skirt. I love the textured lace on this one.


Last worn: jersey blazer, blue tank, lace pencil skirt, gold mouse flats, Louis Vuitton speedy bandouliere.

Other ways to wearjersey blazer and printed dress, blue tank and printed shorts, lace pencil skirt in winter, gold mouse flats and wrap dress, Louis Vuitton speedy bandouliere for travel.

Perfect for pregnancy: cream blazer in second trimester, lace pencil skirt in third trimester, gold mouse flats in second trimester, Louis Vuitton speedy bandouliere in second trimester.





What I wore:

navy floral cocoon kimono bermuda denim shorts, mustard tank and speedy bandouliere | awayfromblue

Louis Vuitton Damier Ebene 30 speedy bandouliere | awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue instagram floral cocoon kimono with mustard tank and bermuda denim shorts, speedy bandouliere SAHM style
JacketCotton On 'Gemma' cocoon kimono in Laos blossom navy print
Necklace: Nibbly Bits Feather pendant in peach (C/O)
TankJeanswest Maya gather back tank in chartreuse
ShortsJeanswest Trinity Bermuda denim shorts
Shoesslim gold Havaianas
BagLouis Vuitton Damier Ebene 30 speedy bandouliere

Why I wore it:

Another super-hot day, at the height of the heatwave. We were spending the morning in aircon so I added the kimono to keep me cosy, and also because I'd been wanting to try the navy floral with the mustard tank. I really like this outfit and felt great in this. I'll probably try this kimono and tank together again soon, I loved the colour combo.

I ended up taking the kimono off in the afternoon though as we ran around on a couple of errands. Even the brief moments between the air conditioned car and building made it too warm for any kind of layer!

Carried my Louis Vuitton speedy bandouliere bag again, I needed something fairly indestructible, and this is perfect as it's waterproof and easy to clean.

Since I was spending the day with the boys, I swaped the pretty but not kid friendly statement necklace I wore to the office with this much more kid friendly silicone teething necklace. Easily washable too, just like the Louis Vuitton handbag.


Last worn: floral cocoon kimono, mustard tank, bermuda denim shorts, Havaianas, Louis Vuitton speedy Bandouliere (above).

Other ways to wearfloral cocoon kimono and flared jeans, mustard tank and printed shorts, bermuda denim shorts and button up shirt, Louis Vuitton speedy Bandouliere and colourful jeans.

Perfect for pregnancy: floral kimono in third trimester, speedy bandouliere in second trimester.



Basic Tanks for Work and Weekend Under $50:






How You Can Wear It:


Basics are the best building blocks to have in your wardrobe, especially if you want pieces you can get more wear from. These tanks, while different colours, are the same simple cut and are so easy to dress up or down. With a few tweaks like swapping the fun kimono for a more formal blazer, and the casual denim shorts for a pencil skirt, it's easy to make a casual outfit perfect for the office. If you're on a budget, investing in a few pieces like this makes it easier to get more value from your purchases as you can wear them for different events. You don't have to spend big, both of these tanks were under $20!


Linking up with Turning Heads, Trend Spin, Confident Twosday, Wardrobe Wednesday, Style on the Daily.





Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Monday 12 February 2018

Balenciaga Tempete Day Bag With Ruffle Camis and Pencil Skirts For The Office

Continuing the 30 wears challenge is one of my goals for this year, but at the same time I want to make sure I'm wearing as much of my wardrobe as possible. It's a balancing act between rewearing pieces that are close to the 30 wears number, and not neglecting the other pieces in my wardrobe that aren't. I'd noticed I hadn't worn any of my camis at all this summer, so it was time to pull them out again! Camis look great work to the office with some textured pencil skirts and a blazer.

What I wore:

jersey blazer, peach ruffle cami and blue lace pencil skirt business casual summer office wear | awayfromblue

Balenciaga tempete storm blue day hobo bag with lace pencil skirt | awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue insta stories mirror selfie office outfit peach ruffle cami blue lace skirt
JacketZara cream jersey blazer
Necklace: statement silver plate necklace
DressJeanswest peach ruffle cami
BeltAsos blue textured lace pencil skirt
ShoesMarc by Marc Jacobs logo plaque flats in camel
BagBalenciaga giant hardware Day bag in 2009 tempete

Why I wore it:

Id' planned this outfit in advance the weekend before. Usually I plan my outfits the evening before, to help me get ready faster in the mornings. I was feeling a bit stressed on Sunday night though before a big Monday so decided to play in my wardrobe a bit to relax, and pulled this together. I've worn orange and blue together before, but this is the first time I've paired this blue lace pencil skirt with peach. I really liked this combination of colours.

Wasn't entirely sure that the cami untucked looked as good as I thought though - I preferred it without the blazer. The spaghetti straps on the cami mean a coverup was required at work, but I didn't check the blazer addition before I left the house. I think tucking in the cami would have looked better. Otherwise, I really liked this outfit. Perfect for a hot day as I took the jacket off whenever I was outside and had it to keep me warm in the aircon at my desk.


Last worn: cream jersey blazer, peach ruffle cami, blue lace pencil skirt, Marc by Marc Jacobs ballet flats, Balenciaga Tempete day bag.

Other ways to wearcream jersey blazer and sheath dress, peach ruffle cami and jeans, blue lace pencil skirt and purple tank, Marc by Marc Jacobs ballet flats and printed dress, Balenciaga Tempete day bag and maxi dress.

Perfect for pregnancyblue lace pencil skirt in third trimester, Marc by Marc Jacobs ballet flats in third trimester, Balenciaga Tempete day bag in second trimester.









What I wore:

jersey blazer, white ruffle cami, pastel pink polka dot pencil skirt balenciaga day bag | away from blue

Balenciaga 2009 storm tempete day hobo bag giant g21 hardware | away from the blue

awayfromblue instagram office outfit polka dot pencil skirt, jersey blazer and white ruffle cami
Jacketthrifted Zara black blazer
Necklace: Uniquely Made with Love Sea Change necklace
DressJeanswest 'Maria' cami in cream
Skirt: Cotton On 'Mica' mesh spot skirt in dusty pink
ShoesWalnut Melbourne 'Ava' black lizard ballet flats (also available in silver)
BagBalenciaga giant hardware Day bag in 2009 tempete

Why I wore it:

Another day in the office, another opportunity to wear a cami and textured pencil skirt. After not being too sure about the untucked top above, I tucked the cami into the skirt this time, and I preferred this look.

I continue to be impressed by how well this mesh layer skirt is holding up, coming up to having it 6 years now. It has only been worn 13 times in that period though. It's not the first time I've paired it with this white ruffle cami, I love the combination so it makes sense I'd repeat it. This time, instead of the grey cardigan I wore it with the black blazer.

Kept the blue Balenciaga bag with this, I like blue and pink together and I thought that the necklace tied it in nicely. There was a style challenge on Instagram too and I thought the colour of the day was blue, but I was a day early and it was supposed to be green. I enjoyed the blue accessories anyway.


Last worn: black jersey blazer, white ruffle cami, polka dot pencil skirt, black ballet flats, Balenciaga tempete day bag (above).

Other ways to wearblack jersey blazer and printed tee dress, white ruffle cami and maxi skirt, polka dot pencil skirt with florals, black ballet flats and skinny jeans, Balenciaga tempete day bag and printed shorts.

Perfect for pregnancyblack jersey blazer in third trimester, white ruffle cami in second trimester, polka dot pencil skirt hiding an early baby bump, black ballet flats and maternity wrap dress, Balenciaga tempete day bag and maternity shorts.



Ruffle Camis Under $50:









How You Can Wear It:



A cami is one of those pieces that you can wear for work or weekend! If your office dress code means spaghetti straps aren't an option, you can go for one with thicker straps, or cover up with a blazer. Adding a blazer to anything is my favourite way to make it ready for a business casual office.


Linking up with Hello Monday, On Mondays We Link Up, Shoe & Tell, Turning Heads, Style Sessions, Oh Hey Girl.


Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It 

Monday 29 January 2018

Making Casual Dresses Work For The Office With a Pencil Skirt

One way I like to get more wear from my dresses is to layer a skirt over them and wear them as tops. I've done that with both of the dresses below before. Putting a pencil skirt over a dress is the perfect way to make a dress on the shorter side work-appropriate!

What I wore:

botanical print tee dress for the office layered under black pencil skirt | awayfromblue

silver bracelet stack and Rebecca Minkoff moon navy Regan medium satchel tote bag | awayfromtheblue

awayfromblue instagram botanical print tee dress made office appropriate with pencil skirt layered over
Necklace: gifted silver heart long pendant necklace
DressAtmos & Here Willow printed tee dress
SkirtJeanswest zip detail ponte pencil skirt
ShoesWalnut Melbourne 'Ava' black lizard ballet flats (also available in silver)
Bracelets: the usual
Bag:  Rebecca Minkoff Regan Satchel Tote in moon

Why I wore it:

My first day back after an extended leave over Christmas time meant picking bright colours to cheer me up. Especially after spending the week before I went back to work feeling sick. I knew it would be a day of catching upon emails and everything else I missed, so wanted to pep myself up as much as possible with this bright and colourful dress worn as a top. It's not the first time I've layered a skirt over this dress, I've done it before here with a maxi skirt and with a pencil skirt again. Way back when I first bought this I fell in love with the print and couldn't decide between getting the dress or tee in the print. I'm glad I picked the dress, as it's so easy to wear it as a top too to mix things up a little.


Last worn: botanical print tee dress, black pencil skirt, Walnut Melbourne ballet flats, Rebecca Minkoff Regan satchel.

Other ways to wearbotanical print tee dress and Converse, black pencil skirt in winter, black ballet flats and fit and flare dress, Rebecca Minkoff Regan satchel and shorts.

Perfect for pregnancybotanical print tee dress for pregnancy announcement, black pencil skirt in first trimester, black ballet flats in second trimester.


Pencil Skirts Under $50:



Both pencil skirts I'm wearing in this post are Jeanswest, and they've just released a new office wear collection!



What I wore:

zara printed tunic dress for the office work layered under a pencil skirt easy business casual outfit | away from blue

Rebecca Minkoff Regan moon navy satchel tote bag for the office | away from the blue

awayfromblue Instagram zara navy printed dress under black pencil skirt Rebecca Minkoff regan stachel
Necklace: Lovisa gold filigree heart pendant
Dress: Zara printed bib front tunic dress
SkirtJeanswest black ponte pencil skirt
ShoesMarc by Marc Jacobs black logo plaque ballet flats
Bag:  Rebecca Minkoff Regan Satchel Tote in moon

Why I wore it:

Another day in the office, another dress as a top. This dress has been worn with a pencil skirt before too. I'd planned to wear this outfit after the one above, but after wearing that and dragging myself to the office, I made myself much worse and the doctor sent me back home to rest for a few more days. It did make getting ready for work when I was eventually well enough to go back really easy though, just pulled on this outfit I'd had sitting planned for a few days!

The only thing I didn't like about this outfit was the necklace. I love the way it looks, but I didn't consider that when I wore my work security pass around my neck on the long lanyard like I usually do, it would hit and jingle with the necklace all day. It was a little frustrating as I moved around between meetings, as I didn't always have a hand free to separate the two. Might need to save this necklace for weekend wear, which is a shame as it's so pretty!


Last worn: navy shift dress, black pencil skirt, MbMJ ballet flats, Rebecca Minkoff Regan bag (above).

Other ways to wearnavy shift dress and denim jacket, black pencil skirt and tan accessoriesMbMJ ballet flats and little black dress, Rebecca Minkoff Regan bag and tee dress.

Perfect for pregnancynavy shift dress in third trimester, black pencil skirt in second trimester.


Printed Dresses Under $50 great for layering with:






How You Can Wear It:


Not all dresses are work appropriate lengths, even though they might be ideal for weekend wear. If you're worried a dress is too short for the office, try turning it into a top by putting it under a pencil skirt. A pencil skirt works so well for different office dress codes, and it's a fun way to remix a dress and make it less casual.



Have you seen my latest YouTube video? Top 3 must-have bags for mums!





Linking up with Modest Monday, Mix It Monday, Hello Monday, Creative Monday, On Mondays We Link Up, Style Sessions, On Trend, Turning HeadsConfident Twosday.


Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin
Twitter : Instagram Youtube : Facebook : Google Plus : LikeToKnow.It