GUEST POST: 3 Simple Ways to Update Your Summer Wardrobe with New York & Company

When the folks over at New York & Company told me that their head of design, David W., wanted to share some of his best tips for updating your summer wardrobe in a guest post for , I said, “Umm … yes, please!”

Enjoy!
xoxo
NYC Recessionista


Summer is already in full
swing, but is your work wardrobe ready?  Luckily, it’s easy to liven up the
standbys already in your closet by adding just a few key pieces.  Even
better, these pieces are simple and classic—which means you’ll be able to mix
and match for maximum impact without breaking the bank! Better still, we found
some sweet summer deals on key pieces that will help your wardrobe stand up to
the heat.
 

1. The White-Hot Blazer – White is everywhere
this season, including the runways. Rock this cool and crisp white blazer with a pair
of 
women’s colored jeans, and you’ll stun at the office and beyond!
 White is the new black and will set off those vibrant colored jeans in a
way that will make you instantly standout. Perfect for layering, this summer makes
the transition between work time and down time smooth and effortless.  
It’s a breeze to throw on over a summery tank to polish up your work look, and
white-hot with dark denim for a night out.  This tailored piece will
brighten up your classics and keep you chic when things are heating up.

2. The Maxi Dress – The maxi dress is perfect for summer
with its cool, floor-sweeping length, and with a few simple touches it works
beautifully for work. Take this black maxi dress from boho to Soho by adding a little
structure with a blazer or tailored jacket.  A colored blazer will set off
a neutral maxi dress nicely, but if you’re opting for a dress with a print or pattern,
go for a more subtle blazer or jacket. Avoid anything too low-cut or clingy to
keep the look sharp and fresh for the office.  Throw on a skinny belt to
define your waist, and don’t forget to dress it up with some jewelry!  A chunky
statement necklace pairs well with a neutral maxi dress, or throw on some bold
earrings to add the perfect splash of color. 
 

3. The Feminine Print Blouse – You can go for
bright, fun prints (like this polka dot blouse), or soft floral hues
either way, a print blouse can be
paired with almost anything. Top with a dark blue or white blazer and add
women’s colored jeans and you have the ultimate desk-to-dinner look.   Or
tuck it into a neutral pencil skirt and accessorize with a small leather belt
for the ultimate polished, yet comfortable, style.  A sleeveless blouse is
a great summer layering piece taking you seamlessly from work time to play
time.  Pull a blazer on over it, or wear it with a cute tank peeking out
underneath. Any way you style it, it’s a dream for summer. Choose lightweight
fabrics like cool cotton and crisp linen.  You can’t go wrong with a
printed blouse that shows off your feminine side while staying tailored and
professional. 
 

(Design by NYC Recessionista; products images, NY & Co. logo courtesy of New York & Company)

a. pyramid bracelet – now $16.95 and BOGO
b. striped shopper tote – now $46.95
c. white linen blazer – now $24.99
d. gray denim leggings – now $59.95
e. abstract flower necklace – now $7.48 and BOGO
f. black maxi dress – now $64.95 and BOGO
g. petal earrings – now $3.88 and BOGO
h. white and gold-tone bangles – now $16.95 and BOGO
i. flower earrings – now $3.28
j. bow bracelet – now $14.95 and BOGO
k. polka dot ruffle front blouse – now $39.95 and BOGO
l. floral scroll pencil skirt – now $46.95 and BOGO
Updating your work wardrobe for a new season can
seem overwhelming and expensive. However, if you stick to investing in just a few
key items that you can mix and match with what’s already in your closet, it’s a
snap! 

What are your favorite go-to pieces for summer?