Business Casual

{ZARA Military Jacket, UNIQLO Turtleneck, TOMMY HILFIGER Ponte Pants, CAMBRIDGE SATCHEL Tote, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Mary Janes (also LOVE these)}

Believe it or now, I was a band geek all through middle school and high school. That probably explains why I’m always drawn to military-inspired band jackets like these whenever I see them online or in stores. I copped this one at Zara last month, and I love how it adds a touch of whimsy to an otherwise boring slacks and turtleneck combo.

About the Fit:
The fit is slightly boxy, but the jacket runs true-to-size and buttons comfortably over my chest.  The sleeves work for me, but I can see them needing to be shortened if you’re on the petite side. The material is a substantial velvet that works well for crisp fall days when you’re not quite ready for a coat.

{ZARA Tweed Blazer, CATHERINE MALANDRINO Jumpsuit, AMERICAN APPAREL Leather Clutch, 3.1 PHILLIP LIM ‘Martini’ Heels}

Every year, Zara comes out with the most amazing blazers at pretty reasonable prices. This year was no exception, so I treated myself to this gorgeous blue tweed version with jeweled buttons. It’s perfect for dressing up or down and also has a matching skirt (which I’m kicking myself for not getting). Today I paired it with my beloved navy jumpsuit that’s been my trusty companion on numerous trips over the past year or two. It’s literally the perfect travel outfit since it’s as comfy as a pair of pajamas and rarely requires ironing.

About the Fit
The blazer fits true to size, and the sleeves were a perfect length on my 5’7″ frame. I probably could’ve gone down a size in the jumpsuit, but I wanted a drapier fit to maximize comfort while traveling. This is probably one of the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe, and I’ve also worn it sneakers and a jean jacket for casual weekend outings. If it came in multiple colors, I’d stock up in a heartbeat.

{ZARA Varsity Sweater, MAISON JULES Dress, VINTAGE Beret, PRADA Sunglasses, DOONEY & BURKE Handbag, SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Flats}

It’s been ages since I’ve taken classes, but there’s just something about fall that makes me wanna embrace classic schoolgirl style. When I spotted this sweater at Zara, I fell in love instantly. And after poking around online, I just learned that it also comes in black! I can’t wait to style it up with different looks this fall. This time around, I paired it with a feminine and slightly preppy little black dress with contrasting collar. I think it’ll look equally fetching with jeans and a pair of sleek loafers for running errands over the weekend.

About the Fit:
This is your standard slightly oversized boyfriend-fit cardigan. I went with my regular size, and it fits just right. I love that it’s roomy enough to layer without being to boxy or bulky. While I do love the style of this dress (I also have it in burgundy), the fabric is a little thin and the top portion is a bit too roomy in the shoulders for my liking. It’s passable with a sweater or blazer layered on top, but could definitely stand some alterations in the arm hole area.