How to Dress Up Basic Black - Look #2

Look # 2 - Casual Business Lunch

featuring.

Anne Klein Pinstripe Blazer + Silk Camisole + Old Navy Black Jegging + Forever 21 Red Clutch + Steve Madden Suede Red Pumps + Forever 21 Necklace + H&M Bangle

If you don't own a pair of black jeans, you MUST got out and get a pair ASAP. They are essential to a casually chic wardrobe! Okay, maybe that was a little dramatic, but they really are great to have on hand for occasions where jeans are appropriate but you want to look a tad bit dressed up and polished. I actually own several pair -- a few skinnies, and one bootcut pair. I actually wish I had taken some pics with the bootcut pair as well.  Anyway, the key to this look is mixing dressy and casual separates, and there are several elements about each piece that makes the whole look work really well together.

1. The Blazer - Unlike the ever popular, over sized boyfriend blazers that have been ruling the fashion world for the past few seasons this jacket actually belongs to a very classic, tailored suit (one of three that I used for interviewing after college).  Tailored pieces will always provide just the right amount of polish to any of your casual pieces.
   
   I chose a pinstriped blazer instead of a sold black version to break up the black a little bit.  Playing with patterns and textures is always a great way to add a little depth to an all black ensemble. Shadow stripes would also be a great alternative here.
   
2. The Cami - Silk camis are always a quick and easy, no fuss way to add a little femininity against menswear pieces like a tailored blazer.  This one is great because it has a flattering empire waist and it is long and floats around the hips under the jacket.  The addition of the silk cami was is another great way to add a little depth by way of texture.
   
3. The Red Accessories - This look could have very easily been paired with black shoes and a black bag, and this option might be more appropriate for those of you who are more conservative, but opting for red accessories adds a little unexpected edge that I love.

Thanks for stopping by!!!