Dinner + A Show (Stopping Clutch)
Being on vacation doesn't detract from my desire to get extra-dolled up for dinner. In fact, I think it encourages me even more. Needless to say, my parents didn't have to ask me twice to throw a professional looking ensemble into my suitcase.
I've been interning all summer, which has required me to increase the number of business dresses I have in my wardrobe, and for those of you who don't know, they're expensive. To make it even worse, oftentimes, they're not stylish enough to want to wear them anywhere but work, making the high prices seem even worse. Once in a while, I luck out, stumbling upon a dress that I would want to wear both at work AND in public. When that happens, I do a little happy dance in the dressing room and sashay up to the cash register, almost too excited to swipe my card.
That scenario is exactly what took place when I first tried on this blue and white, patterned dress. I loved how it fit. It's tight, but not too tight, while still maintaining a respectable length. The color is also bright and fun, which differs from the typically darker professional ensembles.
Honestly, it's been a staple in my work wardrobe, since it can easily be worn under a black or white blazer. Finally on this trip though, I got to rock it outside the office and let my shoulders breathe. Plus, I knew the perfect accessory I could use to add a even more personality.
This clutch has been in my collection for ages, and I still claim it as one of my best thrifting finds of all time. The color is just so bold, yet the cut is sleek, which tones down the brightness. As a bonus, the entire back is blue, guaranteeing it a special place in my heart (and my closet). Really, this piece just adds a playful punch to the outfit, making it seem less professional and more chic.
As a final touch, I had to go with my trusty nude heels. I can't stress enough how amazing these are. Despite giving you extra height, these are as comfortable as flats. Naturally, they were the perfect choice to increase the elegance of the outfit, without increasing the pain. Overall, this outfit felt very "North East" to me, due to the nautical color scheme. Also, it was fancy enough to look more professional than typical daily wear, but not so much that I appeared to be trying to hard.
Basically, I think versatile office wear is my new aesthetic.
wishing more dinners to get dressed up for in your near future
xoxo madison
SHOP THE LOOK:
Dress: JC Penney
Clutch: Goodwill
Shoes: Target