Workwear 101: Casual Chic

Kidada Jones hosts the “Kidada for Disney” couture party on 31 May 2007.

Genevieve Jones in the front row at the Alexandre Herchcovitch Spring 2008 Show at The Tent at Bryant Park on September 5, 2007 in NYC and Heather Headley stars in “New March of Dimes Campaign, I Want My Nine Months Fights Growing Crisis of Premature Birth” at Harlem Hospital on November 2, 2006.

This edition of Workwear 101 is for those women who work in relaxed environments but still want to look stylish. You need to feel comfortable to carry out your day-to-day tasks but don’t want to dress like an old matron. School teachers, writers, etc. are the type of professions that fit this category. Knee-length dresses that allow you to move easily, knit seperates and long pendants should be staples in your closet. Also think about adding high-waisted pants (below) to next season’s wardrobe. They’re still big for Fall and very practical.

Left to right: Pintuck Detail Tunic Dress, $53.39, www.asos.com; Steve Madden Printed Charmeuse Dress, $188, www.shop.nordstrom.com; Knit Dress, $24.80, www.forever21.com; Minnie Rose Hooded Cashmere Dusters, $182, www.shopintuition.com, Long Sleeve Ribbed Top, $15.50, www.wetseal.com, Dori Skirt, $128, www.frenchconnection.com

Left to right: Aventura, $99, www.ninewest.com; Vera Shoes by Pedro Garcia, $284, www.my-wardrobe.com; Feud Boot by Steve Madden, $139.95, www.endless.com; Sterling Ballt Flat by Volatile, $54.95, www.endless.com

1. Opaque tights, $15, www.victoriassecret.com; 2. Knit Sweater, $19.99, www.charlotterusse.com 3. Antoinette Lee Besa Stitch Hobo, $425, www.ravinstyle.com 4. Xhilaration Metallic Silvertone and Goldtone Hammered Discs Pendant Necklace, $9.99, www.target.com 5. Leather Twist Lock Holdal, $90, www.topshop.com 6. Tigereye Teardrop Ring, $40, www.guess.com 7. Infinity Print Tunic Dress by Catherine Malandrino, $425, www.net-a-porter.com 8. Glimmering ankle bootie, $129.95, www.ninashoes.com