Little Black Work Dress

Welcome back, friends! Did you have a wonderful Thanksgiving break? I just got back to Colorado from Chicago last night (see my adventures on Instagram) and I’m ready to take on the week in this LBWD (little black work dress).

I love wearing a LBD out on a date night, but what about to work? I’m definitely of the opinion that work requires a more conservative LBD and this one from J. Crew Factory is perfectly cut with a higher neckline while still showing off your curves in a classy way.

For the cooler temperatures setting in recently, layering with a button up is a great way to extend the wear of your summer dresses right into the falltime. It adds a layer of warmth, while the collar still lends itself to a more professional and polished vibe. And the best part? You can drastically change the look of your LBWD ensemble by simply changing the button up underneath. This darker chambray button up (last seen here) is one of my favorites, but this gold dot button up or this perfect plaid button up would look great too, especially for the holidays!

I paired this work look with my favorite black strappy sandals and quilted leather purse. There’s just something about black and gold accessories that really amp up the sophistication of an outfit. Don’t you think?

To keep collared shirts from looking too masculine, I like to leave them unbuttoned a bit near the collar to give the illusion of a subtle v-neck. Sometimes, as I did here, I will also add a sparkly statement necklace to add a feminine touch to the otherwise boxy cut. Emily gives some other cute ways to dress up a button down too.

And of course…I am a graduate student, so space textbooks just come with the territory. 😉

What do you think? Have you ever layered a button up under a dress?

Photos by Outside Ourselves

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Get the Look…

Dress: J. Crew Factory (similar here, here, here) | Top: J. Crew Factory (similar, last seen here) | Shoes: J. Crew Factory | Purse: Michael Kors (similar here, here, cute studded version, neeeed this backpack version) | Necklace: J. Crew Factory (similar here, here) | Watch: Movado (from Switzerland) | Rings: Aggie Ring, KD Ring gifted | Lips: Revlon (certainly red)