Weekend’s over, back to work on Monday morning, what’s a gal to wear?  Classic separates with bold accessories are always a good choice.  These pieces are all at least five years old yet they still ‘spark joy’ – that’s what I call a great value! The sweater and skirt are both by JMcLaughlin, a great shop for ‘upscale preppy classics’…but as you can see, you can wear their pieces even if the preppy look is not your style. They have great basics to mix and match and flattering dresses for days when you have no time to coordinate separates. The polka dot blouse and the tiger belt are both great finds from Revolve….and instead of a solid white blouse I love the look of the dots with the patterned skirt – way more interesting than solid white.  Dots and stripes are easy patterns to mix with bolder prints – you just have to take a chance and experiment…

Did you notice these crazy tights?  They are fun for sure even though nobody ever sees the upper thigh detail…well, until now 😉    Wolford comes out with unique new patterns all the time, and there are always terrific sale items to check out.

Here is what my colleague Kate wore to work on the very same day – I loved her combination of textures and fabrics, right down to her shiny Franco Sarto boots.

Banana Republic shirt and jacket with an Ann Taylor skirt.  Some ladies might not have chosen a striped blouse with this skirt, but doesn’t it look great?  It makes the outfit much more visually interesting.  The layered necklaces are perfect classic accessories and adding the belt was a nice finishing touch.

Once we discuss our outfits, it’s back to business!