I used to think business casual meant black and boring, but now my favorite business casual attire involves bold colors and patterns. As long as you keep in mind appropriate skirt lengths, necklines (no cleavage or spaghetti straps, please) and fit, you can’t go wrong. So when my sister Sophie asked for help updating her closet for her new internship, I was thrilled! Here are my tips to create a mix-and-match work wardrobe:
1. Add a kelly green piece to your closet. Because it’s the funnest.
2. Get a camel-colored sweater to balance out patterns and bright colors. Plus, it’ll come in handy this summer for offices kept at arctic temperatures.
3. Wear patterned flats even when you think you shouldn’t (especially if the pattern’s pretty basic). Patterned flats, after all, are the spice of work life.
4. Pair a striped dress with a bright necklace for some pop. (striped dress from Macy’s, necklace from Forever 21)
5. Pick a skirt with a small-scale pattern that you can easily match with a chambray shirt or other basic tops already in your closet. (A couple other really cute ones here and here.)
6. Combine a pretty blouse, a chunky necklace and patterned flats for a polished look when you need some quick outfit inspiration.
Which look is your favorite?