Black tie required…

It’s Saturday morning and you’re window shopping before late brunch. As you hop from boutique to boutique with no real intent to make a purchase, you see it. There it is, glimmering in an imaginary celestial spotlight: the perfect staple piece. It’s from a brand you know and love, and you can picture yourself wearing it a dozen different ways over the next decade. You know you’re going to buy it as soon as it slips over your shoulders in the dressing room, and you mentally start making space in your closet.

The timeless, yet modern, staple piece.

It could be a suede trench, a slimming skinny jean, a silk blouse, or any number of staple statements. For me, a go to outfit formula is to wear these classics together and accessorize for effortless day-to-night looks. Here, I’ve opted for my favorite silhouette – the fitted pencil skirt and pump ensemble. This skirt has actually been in my closet for years, but I recently breathed new life into it with a flirty fringe along the hemline. I’ve paired it with a tie-neck blouse with pleats as my take on an updated classic. Perfect for a casual day of brunching or client appointmentments with a comfy pump and chunky belt, or dressed up with a velvet blazer and pointed-toe stiletto for any kind of evening event or formal gathering.

Since I’m always on the go, I have to plan my outfits around my schedule. I love this look because it can take me from any kind of day I’ve had, to an evening out with friends or with my love. Here, I’m ready for dinner and drinks by layering my rabbit bolero jacket on top, and switching out a sleek tote for a fun, embellished vintage clutch. I know that textures like these will provide added depth and dimension to a plain black and white outfit. I’ve also slipped into a plaid heel as a nod to one of the biggest trends in street style (without being over the top.) By adding a few cocktail rings, I’ve effectively transformed this extremely easy daytime look to nighttime-ready in a matter of minutes. Don’t be daunted by the concept of mixing-and-matching — it’s as easy as finding the right classic pieces for you, and accessorizing in ways that make you feel your best!