Outfit: Pants Pro

Often times, my work day outfits have to do double duty, taking me from an office setting to a nonprofit reception, dinner with girls or a double date. I’ve mentioned it here that I have way too many basics and not enough blouses with personality so when I saw this gorgeous bold print blouse for under $15 at H&M during a recent visit, I couldn’t resist. I love that it looks just as good with navy slacks as it does with boyfriend denim or tucked into a skirt (it also comes in another print).

While I leave the house at 7:45 am with my tote in-hand, I always bring a small purse for later, along with some portable make-up for touch-ups (think concealer, mascara, cream blush and liner). Not only is it lighter, a chic clutch — in this case metallic — gives my daytime look an evening feel, and it’s either easier to wear it standing at an event, or stash at a table for dinner.

By the way, I’m such a pants girl for the office (pretty practical considering I like to sit legs crossed at my desk like a four-year-old!). And, yup, I’m also the girl wearing pants, sipping hot coffee (I loooooooveeee a hot cup of coffee!), even when it’s 95 degrees outside and I’m sweating.

Can’t help but share this last pic… I don’t even know how this happens to my hands! After a few minutes posing like a champ, I can’t help but make a super socially awkward movement, particularly if I’ve just tried to play it cool as people walk by wondering what the heck we’re doing.

Blouse: H&M (more floral prints here) // Pants: J. Crew Factory (wearing size 2) // Purse: Tory Burch (on sale) // Watch: ℅ Jord (it’s made of wood) // Heels: Louise et cie // Lips: Fresh, in tulip  // Hair: styled using this