Grana cashmere turtleneck, Grana wool tapered trousers, Helmut Lang Blazer (similar), Isabel Marant heels (or here and I also love these), Linjer Soft Tote bag, Linjer Classic Watch (I also like this option)
As I’ve started to mix up my wardrobe and shift to some new silhouettes (think a lot more trousers), my every day workwear essentials have started to look a little something like this; a thick cashmere knit, a pair of tapered wool trousers, my go-to black blazer, some classic black pumps, and an oversized leather tote. While I might be branching out into a little bit of colour – if pink counts! – I’m still firmly settled that black and grey hues tend to be the most timeless, and it’s often those pieces that turn out to be wardrobe workhorses that stick around in my closet until they are beyond tired.
If there’s one thing that I’ve been reaching for a lot lately, it’s this grey cashmere turtleneck from Grana, which has turned out to be the perfect transitional piece that works well paired simply with some skinny jeans, a slick pair of trousers, or an a-line skirt, or layered underneath a blazer or a jacket for when it cools down just a little bit more.
After finding myself in a style rut, I’ve been trying to mix up my silhouettes a little bit this year. Trousers, with a t-shirt, blouse or thick knit tucked in have quickly become a go-to, and I’ve been loving this subtle take on the athleisure trend that these wool trouser have – never would’ve expected a drawstring waistband!
Even after six years, my Helmut Lang blazer has been going strong, and it’s an excellent case for why investing a little bit more in your wardrobe is truly worth it. It may not be in pristine condition (there is the odd pull from my cats!), I’ve been sure to get my cost-per-wear out of this classic beauty, and it’s a piece that I will still be reaching for in the years to come.
Perhaps the one thing that I wear consistently on a daily basis, has to be a classic pair of black pumps. My favourites are from Maxmara; pointed toe with a silver block heel, but I like to pull out this pair from Isabel Marant for those days when I want a little bit of extra height.
And while I might not have bought myself a new bag all too long ago, the soft tote from Linjer has been all I’ve been reaching for during the work week. It’s structured – but not too structured, fully lined, and it looks smart; all the makings of a classic work bag, and the rich mahogany hue is a little unexpected, and pairs well with my typical colour palette of grey and black.
PS. You can get 10% off plus free shipping worldwide from Grana using the code JAMIExGRANA – if that’s not a reason to go shopping, then I don’t know what is!
I am loving the shape of those pants! They also look really comfortable! (And I’ve seen a couple pairs of those heels at consignment stores online but they’ve all been too pricey! Darn)
Gotta love cost per wear too! Some of my more expensive pieces still have pretty high costs per wear, but they’re going down
http://www.closet-fashionista.com/
Author
They really are, almost like wearing pyjamas!!! OMG you need to get a pair. They are so comfortable and they’ve been a staple for me over the last few years x
Ahh I hadn’t heard of Grana and now I want to buy everything!
Author
Their stuff is pretty good – I definitely feel like I need to do a bit of a review as I’ve amassed quite a few bits now. Their rollneck cashmere sweater is quite lovely as are their v-neck silk tanks.
I love that you can pull off blazers so easily! Sometimes I feel that it (doesn’t matter what colour or cut) looks a little too aging* on me and the same goes with silk scarves (and I have such pretty ones from Hermès!). Meh…
*Aging in the sense that it looks as if I’m a child playing dress up!
Author
I totally know what you mean – I think it part it comes down to what you’re wearing it with, and I always feel like a blazer looks better with heels (or trousers with some loafers). Silk scarves are a hard one – have you tried using them as twillies on your bags?
You have inspired me to get the Linjer soft tote for work! Such a great minimalist brand. I can’t decide between the black or navy for a work bag. What would you recommend as the most versatile / easy to wear? I’ve seen you comment elsewhere that if you had your time again, you would select the black version. Look forward to your thoughts.
Author
Hi Rachel, I’m SO sorry for the delayed response! Naturally I would say that the black would be the easiest and most versatile because it’s a classic, and goes with absolutely everything. Ultimately though, it does come don to your wardrobe. Yes I did say that, although on reflection I am glad that I went for the tan version – my other bags are mostly black and given how much black I do wear (particularly in winter), it’s nice to be able to break things up a little bit. Very excited for you and your upcoming purchase, it is hands down one of my favourite wardrobe additions from this year 🙂