navy... the new black?

Ok, even I get sick of black. So after digging through endless piles of black leggings, jeans, tanks, skirts etc., I decided it was time to pick a new favorite color. One thing led to the next, and within twenty minutes I acquired a lovely pair of wide-legged trousers, an a-line wool skirt (ah, button detail!), and a navy/pea green top at Salvation Army. Everything below for less than $23.

I struggled with my first "collection" as my closet is currently limited (working from my parent's house). The shoes and hat were old finds from a few years ago, however the navy brought everything together as I was working with a fairly neutral palette. Hat: Midwest, $1.99. Striped top: SML Sport Ltd, 50 cents. Skirt: Anne Klein II (first bridge-line in American fashion, began in 1983), 50 cents. Pants: Thalian, $1.50. Blouse: Josephine Chaus, $1. Black spool heels: vintage, $9.95. Tan heels: Bakers, $6.95.

Three words: tie neck blouse. I love how feminine and flirty these tops are, and how easily they transition from day time to evening wear. For the typical working woman, a button-up shirt can only be worn so many times (and really, who wants to attend happy hour in a button-up?). The tie neck style however adds a little something something to a blazer, suit, whatever. Especially cute when tied in a loose, draped bow.

Suggestion: Try your local thrift store first for this tie neck style, as this look was popular in the 1930's. Name brands also carry this style with prices ranging from $30-$100 plus.

Stay tuned for more looks from the "Navy Collection."