Shirtdresses and Jumpsuits: Yes, for work

This shirtdress from Lafayette 148 New York is all about the color! Well, that and high quality cotton/stretch fabric. This beautiful, bold red is just deep enough to stay sophisticated and classic. Change up the look by replacing the fabric waist tie for a neutral leather belt.

The subtle chevron pattern on this shirtdress brings it a level of sophistication for the office that the Tory Burch brand exemplifies. Great detail, like the epaulettes on the shoulder, allow you to keep the rest of your look clean – no big earrings or necklace necessary to have a finished look.

A black and white pattern is always a favorite of ours, and this is no exception. Top that off with a stretchy fabric, a large array of sizes, and a sleeve to cover our upper arms, and you’ll see that this is great staple to have in your closet. Black and white continues to be a big trend for fall, so you will get plenty of use out of this one from Maggy London.

We can’t stop thinking about this new modern take on a shirtdress. The volume in the sleeves is an emerging trend, but it’s done in such a classic and professional way here. Adding a wide belt, as shown, creates a beautiful silhouette. If you’re petite, a high-heel will help balance the sleeve, but a taller woman can wear pointy toe flats or strappy sandals, too. (This isn't as short on most of us, as it is on the tall model in this picture.)

We looked high and low to find this jumpsuit to share with you – it’s sold out almost everywhere. The kimono sleeve, boatneck neckline, and blouson style of the top, paired with the pleated trouser styling of the bottom, make this an easy jumpsuit to wear in many offices, and then straight out to any dinner. It’s so elegant and sophisticated. We are a little obsessed.

This jumpsuit is so versatile, we couldn’t help but feature it. And since it’s from Vince, you know the fit will be great. Sophisticated, with a short sleeve, you can wear it no matter how you feel about your arms. It will work well with a jacket in the fall, too.

Remember when Norma Kamali came to fame in the ‘70’s for her sleeping bag coat? We’ve loved her ever since, as a strong woman who is always reinventing herself. And that’s what we adore about this jumpsuit, too. It’s basically a canvas around which you can create your outfit. It’s great with a hip-length blazer, or a belted cardigan for the office. Are you having a travel day, maybe leaving from the office straight to the airport? This is a great option, since you’ll be just as comfortable on the plane as you were sitting at your desk. And it’s versatile enough to get another, completely different, wear out of it on your trip. Pack a colorful scarf, lightweight open cardigan and/or a wide belt - you’ve got a casual dinner look. It comes in a large size range too, so it will fit many body types. (If you’re petite, you’ll need to tailor the length, but isn’t that usually the case?)

Is it a jumpsuit or a blouse and pants? Yes! And that’s why it works so well for the office, and beyond, of course. This contemporary style really does look like a sleeveless blouse tucked into a mid-weight crepe pair of pants. For the office, we wouldn’t push up the elasticized leg, and would go with a simple nude or black pump. The pant will be longer on most of us – this model is 5’11”, size 2. The striped blouse allows for easy pairing with a black blazer or cardigan.