6 WAYS TO STYLE A WHITE BUTTON UP (PART 1)

Whenever I read articles or books that talk about closet essentials, a white button up blouse is mentioned. I always felt like it was more of a mature item that I didn't really need in my closet, but a few weeks ago I finally picked this one up at Old Navy and I've been wearing it like crazy. It's the perfect layering piece, goes with everything, can instantly dress up or add class to an outfit, and is flattering on everyone. So I'm joining the masses and saying that this is a piece you must have in your closet.

Today I want to show you a few ways to wear it. Since I'm sharing six ways total, I'm splitting it up into two posts, so check back on Thursday to see three more ways to wear it!



First up, business casual. I get reader requests often, asking me to do more work appropriate attire, so this one is for you. Layer the button up under a structured blazer and pair it with pointed toe pumps and a classic style bag. If you want it completely work appropriate, swap the jeans out for a pair of patterned pixie pants!

similar blazer 

old navy button up

dittos jeans, /co

nordstrom bag, similar

bcbg paris heels via dsw

similar sunglasses

Next up, Casual. The way to dress down a structured piece is by wearing something completely opposite, whether it be edgy, super casual, or very unstructured.  I went for edgy and casual with a baseball cap and converse sneakers, and then paired them with some fun leather pants to add a bit of edge. Another great option would be a flowy maxi skirt like this one, or super distressed denim. 

old navy button up

sheinside leather pants, c/o

white converse

jcrew hat, similar

lily jade bag, c/o

michael kors watch

And lastly, wear it as a neutral. Or in other words, use it to tone down your crazy clothes. This skirt from Shabby Apple is super loud, colorful, and metallic -- definitely not subtle or neutral. So I threw on that white button up to neutralize the outfit. Try pairing it with super bright tights in the fall and winter, or with patterned pants or shorts! 

old navy button up 

shabby apple skirt, c/o

similar heels

similar clutch

michael kors watch

Don't forget to check back on Thursday to see my other three looks!

PICTURES BY JYLARE SMITH

THREE WAYS TO WEAR A TUNIC DRESS

Outfit 1: 

topshop dress // similar fur vest here and here// black tights // 

similar black booties // baublebar earrings

Outfit 2: 

topshop blazer // topshop dress (worn as a blouse) // 

boyfriend jeans //similar black heels // similar cobalt bag

Outfit 3: 

topshop dress (worn as a top) // similar leather skirt // 

similar heels // mirrored aviators // similar clutch

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANA LAURENE

As I get older, building a capsule wardrobe becomes more important to me. Don't get me wrong -- I love a good inexpensive, trendy piece, but I'm trying to be more methodical in my purchases and find pieces that are well-made, classic, and super versatile. For as long as I can remember, I've had friends that were obsessed with Nordstrom, but it wasn't until this last year that I discovered that goldmine. Not only does it have the a huge selection, a million different designers and brands, and the best sales, it sells well made pieces that will last me for years and fit right into that capsule wardrobe I'm trying to build. 

TopShop is one of my favorite shops in Nordstrom, and as soon as I saw this grid tunic dress, I had to have it. It's so versatile, so I wanted to show you three easy ways to wear it:

1. With Tights. A tunic with tights and booties is one of my favorite fall/winter looks. Pair your black tights with a pair of black heeled boots to make your legs look super long and lean. I added a touch of glam to this look with a fur vest and some sparkly accessories. 

2. With Jeans. This tunic has pockets (my favorite!), so turning it into a shirt is a little tricker if you want to avoid bunching at your waist. So I tucked it fully into my boyfriend jeans and then pulled it out to give it a loose and blousey look. Then I threw on a blazer, heels, and a brightly colored bag for a casual work day or pretty date night look. 

3. Tucked Into A Skirt.  The A-line silhouette is so feminine, and this pretty top was just screaming for a classic look. I paired it with my A-line pleated leather skirt, some basic black pumps, and some edgy mirrored aviators for a classic feminine (with a touch of edge) look. 

Now tell me, which look is your favorite??

Also, there's tons of other good stuff at TopShop right now -- check out my favorites in the widget below! 

This post was brought to you by TopShop Nordstrom