CHARMED

Happy Friday!

I feel like I’m always talking about the weather but it’s going to be 100+ degree this weekend and I’m in despair because I have no cool place to escape from the unbearable heat. If only I can just disappear in a cloud of purple smoke and wait out the hot days in Western Europe where people are enjoying mid-60F degree weather… But alas, I’ll just have to employ the proverbial “mind over matter” and make the best out of the situation, although I assure you I will be verbally complaining all weekend because that’s just what I do best.

But in the meantime, at least I can take advantage of the searing weather to wear pretty summery skirts with bare legs. I love the A-line silhouette of this skirt (can you believe it’s from Forever 21?!): it’s super flattering and the 20″ length of the hem ensures propriety for all sorts of occasions (yes, it’s a great candidate for work attire!). In addition, the high waist offers some flexibility to the styling, as I can choose to either tuck in a shirt, or, as in this case, pair with a boxy cropped top (without flashing midriff skin) and a charming statement necklace for a flirty and relaxed look.

By the way – Lena from Feline Creatures brought up a very good point about my last outfit article: I failed to address the problem about layering up in the office should the air-conditioning be on full blast! Personally, I love the look of a good structured blazer, but I honestly dislike wearing them because I feel like they restrict my arm movements and place a damper on complete comfort. However, while blazers offer a chic, tailored look around the office, they’re not your only options to ward off the chill. I like to look towards fitted cardigans, tailored jackets, and pretty scarves to maintain a professional yet 100% comfortable look. Also, if you’re like me and love the look of blazers, I recommend you trying the Soft Blazer. It’s essentially what the name states: it has the blazer look but it’s made with such a soft and lightweight material that it’s almost like you’re wearing a little jacket over your outfit that won’t impede your movements! See below for some gorgeous styles that will instantly elevate your office attire while keeping you on par with the latest trends (not to mention comfort!) and fight against undesirable chills from the AC.

Cardigans:
Halogen Cardigan (so many colors to choose from!)
Express Crew Neck Cardigan
Express Ribbed Cover-Up
Worthington Lace Yoke Cardigan
Vince Camuto Lace Panel Cardigan
Additional budget-friendly choices from Forever 21

Jackets:
Caslon Tweed Sweater Jacket
Jones New York Tweed Jacket
Express Cropped French Terry Jacket
Express Seamed Twill Cuffed Moto Jacket
Lucky Brand Cotton Knit Jacket
Jack by BB Dakota Jacket

Soft Blazers:
Express Textured Knit Blazer
Y.A.S. Masai Soft Blazer
Old Navy Classic Blazer
Chicnova Peplum Zip Blazer
Lands’ End Knit Blazer
Boohoo Soft Blazer

Scarves
Tasha Jersey Infinity Scarf (so many colors to choose from!)
Vince Camuto Chevron Wrap (great fall prints)
Nordstrom Woven Scarf (beautiful pastel hues)
Echo Colorblock Infinity Scarf

Thanks so much for reading! Have a great weekend!

Top: Tobi (similar here, here, and here)
Skirt: Forever 21
Heels: Kurt Geiger
Accessories: Folli Follie bracelet, Forever 21
necklace, Michael Kors bag

Photos by Herman