While sometimes we think business casual is especially hard in the summer, it doesn’t have to be. The other day, I was meeting a client for lunch. It was a warm sunny day, and I wanted to be cool, comfortable, and stylish, professional without looking too dressed up. I chose a white 3Dots t-shirt and a tan, pencil skirt. Alone this would have been a pretty bland outfit, so I added a heavy, chain necklace, gold hoops and my gold watch. Then I slipped on my brown high heeled “gladiator” sandals. Ah, and because you can never tell what the weather is going to do, I grabbed my Beth Bowley, lightweight, brown cardigan. Here’s why this outfit works— First, the colors are neutral and the shapes are basic, so they're super easy to combine. Secondly, instead of choosing any old white t-shirt, I picked one in a high quality. While you might not always want to sink a lot of money into your everyday summer tops, a few nice quality t-shirts in your wardrobe lend themselves to a business casual look. They also wash better and last longer. Next, the weight of the skirt is a little heavier than your typical cotton skirt. (Read more...)

If you're looking for a quick update for you winter professional or casual wardrobe, think tights! They're far more modern than pantyhose. They're also warmer and much, much more comfortable. (If you don't find them comfortable, try going up a size and they'll stay up better.) I also find psychological comfort in the fact that I can easily tug them on, and I don't have to worry about them running. Although tights are nothing new to fall fashion, here are a few ideas to change your look with tights.

• Add black tights and dressy boots to your basic business suit.
• Try cranberry or another dark neutral to mix things up a bit.
• Wear patterned or lacy tights if you work in a creative field. Pair them with solid skirts or mix them with another pattern for a completely unique look.

I encourage you to dust off your skirts and dresses, buy some tights, and get more mileage out of your winter wardrobe.