I remember from my days working in an office that summer was the hardest season to dress both professionally and weather appropriate. Of course, it’s been over thirty years since I worked anywhere besides a home office, and a lot has changed in fashion since then. With the newer fabrics it’s much easier to put together a work appropriate outfit that will also keep you cool and classy during your commute. And today I’m sharing two great summer work outfits that I’ve created from Nordstrom Rack.
Summer Suit Separates from Amanda & Chelsea
I’ve got a little bad news and a lot of good news. The bad news is that several things I’m showing you are sold out. But that’s surely because they are such good values and, in my experience, the best values don’t stay at Nordstrom Rack long before they’re swooped up by savvy shoppers.
So yes, my Amanda & Chelsea mini stripe pull-on skirt is sold out in misses sizes. And I do love it…much more than I expected to. But the good news is that now that I’ve tried this brand I can tell you a little more about it so you can shop it with confidence. Also, the mini stripe pull-on skirt is available in petite sizes. And the versatile Amanda & Chelsea mini stripe scrunch sleeve jacket is still available in most sizes. It would work great with navy or white pants or skirt. Both pieces fit true to size, feel lightweight but also substantial, move with you beautifully and are a great value.
I had never tried anything from Amanda & Chelsea before, but I’m very impressed with these separates. The scrunch sleeve jacket is unlined, but it’s substantial and not see-through at all. It feels perfect for summer career wear. I’m so sad that the skirt is sold out in misses sizes, but you can find lots of other Amanda & Chelsea options here, including this similar grey stripe pull-on skirt, this black and white plaid pull-on skirt and this similar grey and blue plaid pull-on skirt. I love that they all feature a wide elasticized waist band with a flat front.
I simply wore my Amanda & Chelsea separates with a solid white v-neck cotton t-shirt (similar and more economical). I think that’s such a smart and contemporary way to style a suit, especially for the hot months of summer.
I’m pretty much one who always keeps my jewelry simple for a work look, but especially during the summer I prefer to add only minimal but impactful jewelry. I wore this paperclip necklace and these Kendra Scott split hoop earrings for both of my summer work outfits. If you wanted to round out your jewelry selection with a bracelet like I did, I would suggest something like this cultured pearl bracelet. Nordstrom Rack has a tremendous assortment of jewelry priced very generously.
Jersey Wrap Dress from Maggy London
For the second of my summer work outfits I styled a colorful jersey wrap dress from Maggy London. At 74% off the original price, it’s no wonder this flattering knee length dress is selling fast. But last I checked it was indeed still available in several misses sizes. And this jersey wrap dress is also available in plus sizes. Finally, here’s an empire waist dress in the same print.
I think it’s perfectly suitable to wear a fun, colorful summer print to the office, especially if it’s presented in such a classy silhouette. And a wrap dress is almost universally flattering. This dress would be comfortable and professional. You’ll find so many other great Maggy London dresses at Nordstrom Rack, some for work and others perfect for special occasions.
I completed both of my summer work outfits with polished neutral colored d’Orsay pumps. These very comfortable shoes are also available in black. And the 2.5″ heel is perfect for the work place, church or special events. They run true to size in medium width sizes up to 13.
Nordstrom Rack is always the first place I check for name brand handbags. I found this navy Kate Spade tote at a great value, but of course it sold out quickly. However, you could easily use this Kate Spade tote in either that cheerful blueberry or the more neutral brown or black. And this Karl Lagerfeld tote is another great option.
Versatile accessories like these d’Orsay pumps and a substantial, classy tote (more selection here) can make your summer work outfits feel more special.
I’ve long known that Maggy London dresses can be a great choice for summer career clothes. And Nordstrom Rack often has a wide selection of them. But I’m so glad I tried the Amanda & Chelsea separates, too. I discovered that they run true to size and are good quality for summer work outfits. Remember that when you shop Nordstrom Rack you accrue points to your Nordy Club account. And if you live near a Nordstrom Rack, you can order online and pick up at the store. You can also make free returns to your local Nordstrom Rack up to 45 days from the original ship date (or return through the mail for a shipping fee).
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Blessed for My Day
Do you ever try to fix someone else? Your husband, a child, your sister, a co-worker? It’s a big job! And fixing someone else will leave you feeling exhausted and frustrated. We cannot change another person. And when we spend precious time and energy trying to manipulate someone else’s character or ways, we neglect to improve ourselves and often make fools of ourselves.
But we can trust that God is at work in the other people in our lives. We do not have to play the role of the Holy Spirit in them. In fact, we perhaps frustrate the work the Holy Spirit is doing when we begin to meddle in another person’s life. It’s hard to take hands off if we’ve become accustomed to telling another person what to do, how to do it and when to snap to it. But today let’s allow the Holy Spirit to do His job, trust Him to do His job. And let’s listen to the instructions He has for us rather than trying to instruct someone else.
…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 1:6
Thank you Kay for your wise words today. What a wonderful reminder that we are not God! – and we need to trust Him to work in others. Your words have brought me encouragement today.
Good morning Kay, I was just curious if you would share what size you are wearing in the blazer and skirt set? I am tall at 5’9 and it’s hard to find cute longer length work appropriate outfits. Hope you have a great day!
Hi! I’m wearing a medium in both. They fit true to size. I actually ordered the large skirt thinking I may need to size up in this brand, but it was very large on me.
Great dress at a great price. Have ordered and hope it looks as good on me as it does you.
Amen to the BFMD. Sometimes that it the hardest thing. To give it to God and let Him do the work.
Have a great week.
Good morning Kay,
You look stunning in both these outfits! Thank you for your words of wisdom. I really needed to hear this today.
God Bless