Mad for Plaid, Not Lumberjacks

There's something about crisp fall air that makes everyone want to bust out the plaid flannel.  It's a look I personally love, but not when it involves visible legging-clad crotches and outfit combinations that evoke the bounty paper towel man. 

Here's how I avoid both of those situations:

fall flannel done right by cardiganjunkie featuring slim jeans

First, I cannot say enough good things about Liz Lange maternity tank tops from Target.  They're basically a long, butt-covering version of the great $12 cotton tanks that you usually get.  There is no ruching on the sides and the cut hasn't been changed otherwise, which makes them perfect for pulling off the leggings and boots look when you shirt or sweater isn't quite long enough to cover everything it should (because leggings are not pants!!)

Second, don't get me wrong, I am not saying that regular jeans don't go with flannel.  I wear it too, but the lighter the jean and the more casual the shoe makes the outfit start to feel rustic.  However, swapping your normal jeans for black denim and a ballet flat with some edge (or not) and a cute clutch makes the flannel feel more chic and on-trend.

Still need a flannel shirt?  Here are some affordable options:

What's your favorite way to wear flannel?

Dreaming of Fall Fashion

It's on weeks like this where I wish that Texas had a different climate.  We have a very short, blink and you'll miss it, fall season.  Although the temperatures aren't sweltering at the moment, traditional fall clothes are not comfortable to wear unless you want heatstroke.

However, a girl can dream! After a wild Friday night that included perusing a stack of catalogs and magazines, I've assembled my dream wardrobe for the fall season.  And since my style errs on the side of classic, I was happy to realize that I already own several pieces very similar to what I want to wear:

fall fashion fantasy by cardiganjunkie featuring a green pencil skirt

Can you tell I looked at the J.Crew fall look book?  This year I want to keep the classic style going with lots of navy, rich greens, grays, and blacks.  Although there are some aspirational pieces included here, I was excited to find some attainable options that I'll be trying on in the weeks to come, like these army green slim pants from Gap ($60 before the usual 30-40% off sales) and this drapey sweater from Hive & Honey ($69).  And I must say, if I were one to spend $168 on pants, it would be these leather trim tuxedo pants from J.Crew.

Is anyone else cursing their temperate climate?  What's your dream item for fall?

I'm a believer - Gap City Flats

Earlier this month I got a Groupon for $50 worth of Gap merchandise for $25, knowing that I'd come across something I want eventually.  I'm so glad I did, because had I not had that little piece of paper I wouldn't have talked myself into buying one of my new favorite things - the Gap City Flat.

If you look online, you'd think there were no more to be had, but the NorthPark store in Dallas had about 10 colors in all sizes, taking up about 10 feet of wall space.  The leather is super soft, the sole is cushioned, and they fit in a little leather bag for traveling.  I've not had flats this comfy in a long time - they were perfect for the airport this week! 

I got the eggplant color, but pewter and cherry red were my second choices.  If you're interested, don't think about it or wait for the sale (they're only $39.50) because these are going fast and worth every penny.

My new summer staple - white jeans

After far too much hesitation, I bought my first pair of white jeans.  My favorite style, Gap Long & Lean, is now offered in a white wash and thanks to an extra 40% off sale last week I picked up a pair for $25.  I know I'm late to the party, but I love them!  (Warning: Do not assume you wear the same size in the white jeans as you do in the dark wash.  The white ones are stretch denim and run much smaller.)

Being the clothes nerd that I am, I went home and stood in front of my closet and made outfits.  Here's all the ways I plan to wear them this summer (or until I accidentally sit on something):

Casual Office / Weekend Shopping
I have a similar tunic top from H&M and espadrilles from LOFT ($7 on eBay!) that I will pair with the jeans and my hobo bag

Drinks on a Patio
I'm going to wear my jeans with a black tank, flat sandals and one of my red bib necklaces for going out and having margaritas on a patio when it's burning hot outside

At Work
I can wear jeans every day, but I try to not be a slob most of the time.  I'll wear the jeans with wedge heels and one of my tailored button downs when I need to look a little bit professional but not seeing clients

What thing are you wearing over and over again this summer?

Deal of the day: Gap Silk Blend V-Neck

Today's Shop It To Me sale mail had a lot of great stuff in it, but the thing that made me click 'add to cart' without hesitation were the Gap Silk-Blend V-Neck sweaters (in 9 colors) for $14.99.  I know, the last thing you want to buy in late May is a sweater, but these are not thick and they're perfect for fall and winter if you don't trudge through snow all day.  (And if you do, you could wear them in the spring?)

Anyway, I have a black sweater and snagged two more for $28.  They run a little big, so go down a size, but I wouldn't pass these up if you know you'll be needing to add to your wardrobe in 4 months.  I wear them with dark jeans, work trousers, and my dark denim pencil skirt.  They're basically a blank, flattering, canvas for statement necklaces and bracelets.

And while I'm talking about Gap... what is the deal with the whole Little House on the Prairie meets Hobo theme this month?  I know my style is not for everyone, but there are few places you can rock these outfits without getting some odd looks.

The long and the short of it

Maybe it's just me, but I find buying shorts to be pretty difficult.  They have to fit just right or you look too fat/pale/skanky and spend the day wishing you'd worn something else.  Tomorrow my company has a golf tournament (and subsequent party) and we're allowed to wear shorts to work, which got me thinking about the pairs I wish were in my closet right now.

In my opinion, any short with less than a 3-4 inch inseam are best left for those in the 21 and under group.  However, if you go shopping right now you'd think that everyone is wearing short shorts and heels to work and to dinner and everywhere else.  Resist their ploys - plenty of us are keeping our upper thighs covered and here are some options that I think are great for a variety of ages and body types:


Lands End Canvas 5" Chino Short
These will flatter almost every shape, large or small.  The length is just right and the rise isn't too low.

Martin + Osa Cuffed and Belted Short (Final Sale plus additional 30% off)
The super dark wash keeps these from falling into the 'jorts' category.  I know they're making a comeback, but I'm just not ready to re-live the days of light denim cutoffs....

Gap Railroad Striped Bermuda Short
I think the subtle stripe pattern make these fairly unique, but not so much that you could only pair them with a few tops.  Plus, this length is very flattering on many people and won't make you self conscious when you sit down.

Old Navy Plaid Tab Waist Short (5" Inseam)
I think these are really cute and summery and would look cute with tees or solid button down shirt with rolled sleeves

Old Navy Perfect Khaki Short (7" Inseam)
I think everyone needs a nice pair of black shorts that can be dressed up with wedges and fun jewelry for a casual dinner, or paired with flip flops and a fitted t-shirt for running kids around town.

The Limited Sexy Drew Belted Short
I tried these on and they fit like they are cut for someone with a narrow body shape.  It that's you, you're in luck, because they're very cute and on sale.

Good luck shopping ladies - it's rough out there. 

Work Wardrobe 101

This week I got two very similar requests about building a business casual work wardrobe that conveys capability and sophistication.  The first was from Kelly, who needs a wardrobe that will take her through a year of pharmacy school rotations in all kinds of weather (she lives in Maryland).  She needs to look like she's in a position to offer medical advice, but still be herself and not try to look older than she is.  The second request is from Ashley, who already has staple pieces from her five years of working full time, but wants to work in some new items that will impress her new boss in a conservative office.

Rather than write two similar posts this week, or make one of them wait a while, I'm going to first go through ideas for basics for Kelly and then tomorrow I will add in some more items for people like Ashley who want more options.

The Basics
When you're just starting out, you need to identify what kind of items will get the most mileage and invest in good fit and quality.  Until you've got the money for items you'll wear occasionally, stick to neutral colors for your pants and skirts.  In a conservative setting, black and gray trousers will always be appropriate.  When you're first starting out, you can wear them on alternate days during the week and then wash both on the weekend.  Once you get a few paychecks under your belt, you can branch out and add a pair of camel colored trousers (it's dressier than light khaki) and a nice black pencil skirt (or A-line if it suits you better). 

You're going to see a lot of $80-90 options, but if you watch for markdowns you should be able to get  well-made pants and skirts for around $50-60.  Look for thick, sturdy  fabric and a hem that is more than barely attached.  In my experience, trousers from The Limited hold up very well.  The wider-leg styles are universally flattering and look nice with a low heel.  Right now, The Limited is offering a buy one, get one half off special on their pants so I would take advantage (don't forget they offer free hemming!). 

Cassidy Wrap Waistband Fit & Flare
Exact Stretch Classic Flare Pant

To break things up a bit, you should add a flattering skirt into the mix.  I think black and khaki would both get a lot of wear year round. I'm not a huge fan of the high waisted skirts unless you're tall, and prefer a wide waistband like the one below.  Again, go for thick fabric that isn't going to show every line and curve you have. 

 The Limited Sunbeam Pencil Skirt
Gap New Pencil Skirt

Once you've got your pants and skirts in hand, you'll need to find tops that work for more than one season (and preferably all of them).   I'm a big fan of the 3/4 sleeve button down shirt.  You can wear it year round and layer under knits to keep from looking like a banker.  And of course, long sleeve button downs will always work when you want to look business-like (and you can roll the sleeves when you don't).  I think you need white (of course), black, blue, and at least one more fun color.  If you can only buy a couple at first, go with black and a fun color.


Banana Republic Elbow Sleeve Stretch Skirt
Lands End Canvas Heritage Poplin Shirt
The Limited Multi Button Classic Shirt

At this point, you will have about two weeks of outfits just by combining your 2 pairs of trousers and 2 skirts with your 4 shirts (just avoid the black pants/shirt look).  Now, you get to work in some knitwear for even more options.  As I said in my clothes for mom post, the timeless v-neck sweaters from The Limited are the best affordable knit I've found in a while.  These can be worn alone or over one of your 3/4 sleeve button down shirts. And don't be afraid of a saturated color in the office - as long as the silhouette is conservative you'll be fine.

Of course, I wouldn't be me if I didn't recommend a cardigan or two.   A black cardigan can dress up even a plain white tank top, and a jewel tone option will get lots of wear with your neutral pants and skirts.  However, for a conservative office, make sure you can button your cardigan without any gaping and stay away from the long, slouchy styles.  These sweaters can be worn over tank tops (get black and white, non-ribbed) or your 3/4 sleeve button downs. 


Lands End Canvas Heritage Cardigan
Ann Taylor LOFT V-Neck Cardigan
The Limited Timeless Vee

At this point, you've got at least 3 weeks of outfits by combining your button downs and knits with the neutral bottoms.   You can slowly acquire more tops (short sleeve button downs and sknits) and additional colors of trousers or skirts, but you'll have enough options that people won't start to notice repeating outfits.  Everything above can be worn pretty much year round since most offices are a steady 72 degrees whether it's snowing or not.

For shoes, I think you need to buy once and wear them for a long time.  I've never had good luck with bargain pairs from Payless or Target, and am now a firm believer in well made shoes.  You have one set of feet, and blisters make you grouchy.  You'll need a great pair of black pumps in the 2.5 inch range if you'll be doing lots of walking.   Then, add a similar pair in brown to wear with your khaki and brown bottoms.  Don't go too sexy with patent leather and toe cleavage, but there's no need to look like an old woman.  Then, invest in a nice pair of knee-high boots when you can afford them.  Don't go PVC... there's too much of it on a boot and it won't look as good.

Nine West Nuncio Pump
Nine West Quilliam Pump
Rockport Pierce Place Boot

That covers work wear basics - you should be well on your way to taking over the hospital or board room without spending a fortune.   If you have any other suggestions, let everyone know in comments.  Tomorrow I'll cover how to jazz things up if you've already got basics but want more variety.

Clothing for the curvy: Volume 2, Pants

This is the second installment of my clothing for curvy girls post... 

Pants:  As Stacy and Clinton say over and over again, you want to create the illusion of long legs.  That means your hips and thighs should not look like they're about to bust out of your pants.  Unfortunately, as I found out when shopping for jeans, the skinny pant trend is taking over and those of us whose thigh is several inches larger than our knee are faced with a challenge.  I tend to wear wide leg pants and fitted tops to avoid the issue entirely.  Labels that say 'fitted through the hip and thigh' usually mean tight on me and I am too lazy and poor to buy a larger size and tailor it down everywhere else.

I've recommended Gap's Long and Lean jeans to everyone who will listen but their dress pants can be hit or miss.  Banana Republic's wide leg styles tend to fit nicely without pulling, but you just have to shop with the intention of trying on a lot.  The Limited is not consistent with the fit of their pants, but give them a shot.  I think the pair below would be flattering.

And please don't let the sizes get you down.  A 12 at Express can be an 8 somewhere else.  I've been known to rip out labels that upset me after I get the pants home. ;)

Gap - Long and Lean Jean - $59.50

The Limited - Drew Vertical Pocket Wideleg - $79.50 (Wait, these often go on sale for $49.50)

Winter sale items to wear to work this spring

In the real life of a young professional (at least not this one), there are not separate wardrobes for each season.  That happens on tv and in magazines.  Limited budgets mean that clothes need to be worn throughout the year and it takes a little bit of creativity to see past the intended purpose of each garment and adapt it to a different season.

Magazines like to do this a lot, but usually the result is not work appropriate.  (Socks with my strappy heels?  Not in this office.  I'd be laughed out of the conference room.)  Today I thought it would be helpful to show some winter sale items that look to be as cheap as they're going to get and how to make them work for Spring.

M+O Pleated Denim Skirt - $29.50
I actually have this skirt, and it's great paired with tights and boots but looks equally good with leather pumps and a cropped cardigan and long necklace.  I'll be wearing this all year round and pairing with tank tops and statement jewelry for the summer.

M+O Soybean Ribbed Cardigan - $24.95 

This sweater is thin enough that it can be worn in an air conditioned office without making you want to strip down in your cube.  You can obviously wear with jeans year round, but this pink color would look great w/ a white skirt or white jeans when the weather changes.  I'd even pair with a tank top, flat sandals and white or black tailored shorts in the summer because I'm usually cold indoors.

Gap Floral Cardigan - $39.99

This one may get a little cheaper, but I wanted to include it anyway.  I this these colors scream Spring even though it has long sleeves.  It would look really cute with a dark denim skirt or white jeans, or layered over a dress, and you won't get overheated in the office.  Just layer a tank underneath in case you end up outside for more than 5 min.

The Limited Ruched Square Neck Sweater - $29.99
This sweater also comes in black but the picture didn't show the detail.  I think this could be worn with trouser jeans or black pants year round.  It's not thick and would be a great basic piece to wear with statement jewelry.  If your shoes are more spring/summery than nobody will think you're wearing leftover winter clothes (unless they're cable knit).

Banana Republic Martin Trouser - $44.99

I know there is only one size left in this particular pant, but there were several similar styles on sale.  Anyway, I am not a believer in the 'gray is for winter' rule.  When you pair it with a bright color like yellow or pink, and the pants aren't made of thick wool, you can wear them to work all year.