Colorful Extras

gap_inc_macys_kate spade_bloch_frontAs I am reviewing this outfit, I realize that I was was possibly walking a fine line between business casual and casual (the former being acceptable where I am employed).

So, even though this is a work outfit post, make sure you know the do's and dont's of your office's dress code. Nobody wants a talking to or to be sent home to change! With this potentially casual look, I followed a few guidelines too keep this outfit work-appropriate: (1) Clothes should fit well; stay away from anything baggy or skin tight, (2) Stick to classic items like these cropped black pants, (3) Select a simple print in neutral tones such as black and white stripes and (4) Don't bare too much skin. With a black and white backdrop, I added some colorful extras to keep the look fresh and fun. My blinged out necklace was the finishing touch, adding the right amount of sparkle. Who doesn't love a little sparkle?

Outfit Details:

Black & White Tee: Gap (essential rugby crew T), $3.50. A few weeks back I took advantage of the 50% off promo, so this T was practically free! You are in luck, use code GAPEARLY (thru 8/28)and save an additional 25%!

Black Cropped Pants: INC from Macy's, $20. This was definitely a lucky find on the clearance rack and of course, I used a Macy's coupon to get them at such a great price. For a similar look, try these Gap slim cropped pants ($49.95). As already mentioned, use code GAPEARLY thru 8/28 and save an additional 25% ($37.46).

J. Crew Inspired Translucent Flower Necklace: Very Jane (from midnightgirls.com), $14.50. I love Very Jane, it's the Groupon of Etsy. Check in for daily for great deals!

Rings: Trio of gold stackable rings by gorjana-griffin from Rue La La, $29.90. Bauble Bar carries twist ring trio in lilac (on sale $22), mint (on sale $22) and tangelo (on sale $20). Each set contains one gold band. For something similar to my gold band, I like the gold classic cigar band also from Bauble Bar, $36. As for the open pyramid ring by gorjana-griffin (Rue La La, $29.90), an alternative is the Piperlime solid pyramid ring by Hive and Honey which is now marked down to $12.97.

Bracelet: Metallic silver band with gold hardware, The Fashion Truck, $28. For a dollar more, you can get the same bracelet at Jewel Be Mine for $29.

Pouch: Kate Spade Outlet, $28. Once again, major savings at the store. The purse was tagged $50, followed by a 40% store promotion and an additional 10% off coupon. Love the brightness and size of this pouch. To add a pop of bright color to your outfit, try the Nolita Textured Wallet Clutch $28 or the Bridgeport Studded Clutch in Pink, $19.98 both from Francesca's.

Flats: Bloch from Rue La La, $50. Bloch does make frequent appearances on Rue so definitely keep an eye out there for them. I'm telling you, Bloch flats are so comfy. I only buy Bloch's. For something in a similar bold hue, try Franco Sarto Flats Zapp flats in blue, $69.99. Use code SHOP at Lord & Taylor thru 9/3 and save an additional 20%off ($55.99)

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