Even during the dog days of summer, you can look completely professional –  with standout style –  by sticking to simple basics.  The bold combination of wearing black and white is one of my favorites, and it’s a perfect base to add a classic two-toned shoe…while I did splurge on these Chanel shoes, you can find similar looks under $100.   You can’t get any simpler than this. Starting with the skirt, it’s been in my closet for years, from Ann Taylor, white cotton with a touch of lycra.  Hits just below the knee so it works with a mid-heel as seen here, or a higher heel.  (Over the knee would not look business appropriate with a higher heel.)  You can usually find skirts like this at JCrew, Ann Taylor, or Banana Republic.  This top is a ‘must have’ basic, the Shanghai shirt from Wolford…in a soft viscose fabric it fits like a dream and is for year round wear.  Similar tops can be found at lower price points; just be sure you pay close attention to fit.  

This jacket! No buttons, no zipper, no pockets. Light as a feather. By Elizabeth and James, found this year at Revolve in Newton. I did need to have the sleeves shortened a bit, but otherwise a perfect cropped fit.

What to wear for accessories? Sure, you can choose to pile on the bling, and you can always wear a necklace…but just because it is a scoop neck doesn’t mean you have to…leaving the neck bare creates a look of simple elegance and keeps the focus on you.  Gold bracelets, bold tortoise shell earrings, done!  And while a bright lipstick always looks nice with black and white, I opted for a neutral lip, keeping in line with the overall serious business feel. A straw Furla handbag and a linen Burberry scarf were just right summery accents.

Serious. Summery. Comfortable. Chic. 

Ready for business!