If we were brilliant tech-savvy inventors, we'd cook up an app that would generate outfit ideas based on the day's plans — as in, "Siri, what should I wear to work today?" How genius would that be? But, back to reality — since we're editors, not Silicon Valley gurus, we've done the next best thing and laid out three genius, all-purpose outfits that require just a few wardrobe workhorses: a classic pencil skirt, a boyfriend blazer, a chambray shirt, and some sequins.
That's right, the same slim-fitting skirt you wear to your 9-to-5 can work for a trip to the farmers' market, Sunday brunch, a hot date, or a cocktail party. All you need is our handy cheat sheet to turning that single piece into a triple threat. Click through, if you don't believe us.
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A pencil skirt is a no-brainer for the office, and paired with a chic boyfriend blazer, an ultra-feminine blouse, and an icy pastel satchel, this staple is anything but staid.
From left: Kris Nations Montana Swing Earrings, $73, available at Kris Nations; Zara Double Zip Bowling Bag, $79.90, available at Zara; Joseph Coy Silk Boyfriend Blazer, $1,017, available at Boutique 1; H&M Skirt, $24.95, available at H&M; Topshop Sleeveless Lace Insert Blouse, $64, available at Topshop; Michael Antonio Loveme Patent Pump, $40.76, available at Amazon.
This wardrobe workhorse is easy to dress down, too — the key is to opt for a fuss-free material and add a mix of rugged and earthy accessories.
From left: Madewell Braided Hammock Belt, $45, available at Madewell; Marais T-Bar Wedge Sandals, $160, available at Marais USA; H&M Skirt, $24.95, available at H&M; Mango Long Sleeve Denim Shirt, $54.99, available at Mango; Suzannah Wainhouse Valor Pendant Necklace, $350, available at Vivre; Old Navy Straw Basket-Weave Tote, $22.94, available at Old Navy.
The slim, curve-hugging silhouette of the pencil skirt offers built-in sex appeal, which makes it an obvious choice for a going-out look. Add a pop of neon, some sequins, and a to-die-for heel in a lush fabric, and you're ready for whatever the night holds.
From left: ASOS Harlot Stiletto Leather Sandal, $130.46, available at ASOS; Vince Sequin-Embellished Crepe Top, $435, available at Net-a-Porter; H&M Skirt, $24.95, available at H&M; Kate Spade Backstage Suze Clutch, $338, available at Kate Spade; Marni Lily White Horizontal Striped Bangle, $395, available at Barneys.