When you awaken to temperatures in the teens, it’s a little daunting to get dressed for a day at the office. Indeed, my office is just down the hall from my bedroom, so a blustery cold commute isn’t a conundrum I personally face. But I receive requests from readers for office ready attire each season of the year. So today I’m sharing a winter classics look that is perfect for the office and layered with both style and warmth. Let’s see how I styled my black classic suit for a cold winter day at work.
Here’s How This Works
Through February (the series started in December with this post), I’m sharing a series of modern winter outfits that are very classic in composition, coloring and garment selection. I’ll be creating outfits strictly from the items in my closet as inspiration. Yes, I’m still sharing new fashions here and there during this time, but The Winter Classics posts give you outfit inspiration for which you can just “shop your closet.” I am linking to items that are available and substitutes for those that are not. But I also hope you get plenty of inspiration to work with what’s in your wardrobe already.
So let’s check out today’s winter classics style for a cold commute to the office.
Black Classic Suit for a Cold Commute
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The thinking behind today’s winter classics workwear look is simply layering on the warmth while keeping the style elevated and office appropriate. I began by working with my black knit suit trousers. And instead of wearing pumps or flats, I opted for sharp black booties under which I can wear black trouser socks for warmth.
I topped my black suit trousers with a pretty floral blouse, keeping this outfit feminine and soft. If necessary, you could even wear a camisole underneath this shirt for added warmth. Then I topped the blouse with a soft, fitted cardigan. I selected a cardigan that is light enough and fitted so that it fits easily under my suit jacket. But I also wanted one that would look beautiful on its own, adding something to this workwear outfit rather than detracting from it. I really think that’s one of the keys to choosing your closet essentials: look for pieces that bring something unique and beautiful to the table, er outfit. My sweater is no longer available, but this one fits the bill, is a great price and comes in lots of great colors.
So then I can wear the cardigan under the blazer or not. I could wear it on my commute for warmth, but then remove it once I reach the office. Or I can take off the blazer and just wear the cardigan. And with my sweater and the one I’ve linked to, you can wear the sweater buttoned for a “vest” effect under the blazer or leave it unbuttoned for a softer appeal. Pretty cool, huh?
I kept my jewelry simple but effective. Since I was styling a suit, I imagined this workplace to be one that called for a more conservative approach. If you prefer bolder jewelry, that could certainly work here. But I am really enjoying this two-toned Kendra Scott pendant necklace for its versatility. And while my earrings are simple, they also add a feminine vibe to this menswear inspired outfit. Then I added my Nordgreen black dial watch with a black leather strap. My exact watch is no longer available, but this set is very similar. Use my code, KAYHRMS, and get 15% off your order.
If you have a wool or wool blend top coat under which you can fit all these layers, that would be a more elevated choice for your commute. But since the priority really is warmth and protection, I had no qualms with topping my polished workwear with my Bernardo Ecoplume puffer coat. You’ll find similar coats here, and many of them are on sale.
My black faux leather tote looks chic and carries all the essentials. But the price is a fraction of what I’d pay for pricier bags. Right now it’s only available in cognac (which I also have), but I expect they’ll restock the black eventually.
Not only is this layered on polished style suitable for the office, but I’ve worn this very outfit to church. And most of these pieces are ones that I can wear at least three seasons, if not four.
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Blessed for My Day
Today as we celebrate the love we have for our spouse, family members and friends, let’s not forget to rejoice in the great love we have been shown by our Creator. Like the perfect lover, He has drawn us to Himself with sweet and gracious demonstrations of His delight in us: splendid sunrises, thrilling birdsongs, unexpected rainbows, gentle breezes, children’s sweet giggles and tender moments with family. All good and perfect gifts that have come from above.
But the Lover of our souls did not just woo us, He won us. He left heaven’s throne room to come down to us, then He died a shameful and cruel death to release us from the chains that bound us. He now prepares a place for us so we can live in His intimate company for all of eternity. Meanwhile He continues to indwell us, perfecting us for the day of our reunion. What amazing love!
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. ~ John 3:16
A beautiful way to start the work day/week. It would certainly work here with an added x-long puffer coat and thermal boots with a -40° rating. I realky liked the look of a suit when I worked, in fact it was essential in looking professional. It’s extremely cold here. This is our winter deep freeze months, where the temps have been dipping down to – 37° Celsius. Thank you for all of your work – Blessings Kay
The cardigan link. Does this tend to run big? I have noticed that with some companies like Talbaots or J Jil I need to order a size down. Can you please give me your thoughts?
Terri
Hi Terri, I’m not really sure. I linked to that cardigan as a substitute for the one I’m wearing and have not actually tried it. I would follow the advice given on the retailer website, which does indeed indicate to size down one size. Halogen does tend to run a little large.
Thank you for the info and your time!
Love the look especially with the festive pop of pink for Valentines Day!? I hope all you lovely Galentine’s have the sweetest day ever! ❤
What a great office looking you created using so many nice pieces from your closet. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Happy Valentine’s day, Kay. What a perfect reminder of the love our Creator has for each of us!
I enjoy your daily emails with encouragement and so much useful information!
Just ordered a new coat from Nordstrom’s. Can’t wait to get it.
Have a blessed day and keep sharing!
Like your office look. It looks so put together and warm. Sometimes the office can be quite chilly. Even in the summer with the air. The blouse you chose from your closet is so pretty.
All we need is love. That song by the Beatles. But we are to love each other and above all else love God the way He loves us. Happy Valentines day.
Kay,
The pink shirt is a nice choice to brighten up the look. Although I don’t commute to work it’s important to feel ready and capable with the right clothes. It puts me in the right mindset ….work mode!
Happy Valentines Day
You look wonderful in that outfit.