A simple black skirt with a classic white tailored shirt is a perfect base to create many different looks. Letting the shirt stand on its own, without a jacket, gives it retro chic glamour!  Both basic pieces found this year at Revolve in Newton Center – this is their newest location and worth the trip if it’s not near you…there’s a terrific cafe for lunch next door and more fun boutiques on the same block.

A crisp white shirt with the collar popped up and the cuffs turned once is a look I never tire of.

What might look like nothing special is quite a fabulous skirt…it is DVF in a very fine cotton, soft as silk…with a wide, flattering waistband.  The full skirt style is a nice change from pencil skirts and lends itself to more casual/fun outfits…

Metallic wooden beads added a dramatic accent, contrasting boldly against the bright white.

You could wear so many different shoes with this outfit, but with this skirt style I prefer a round toe, and not too high a heel…these khaki suede block heels fit the bill – feminine yet edgy and great with black and white.  The brand is Silent D: known for doing knock-offs of higher priced shoes, they are very reasonably priced.  I found these for next to nothing on clearance at Sole Amour in Winchester – it’s a terrific boutique for unique items, and they have a second location in Andover.

Regardless of how warm it may be outdoors, always take a wrap!  You look more ‘finished’ and it rescues you when the conference room is 65 degrees!

The bottom line:

• You can’t have enough black and white basics in your closet.
• Simplicity never goes out of style.
• Small boutiques often carry more unique items than mainstream stores.
• An iron is a must for your white cotton shirts.

Happy Monday!