Violet Revolution

If you’re looking for some cute work attire now that it’s warming up a little out there, here’s some great picks from some local designers who know how to make dressing for work trendy, yet still professional.

This printed tunic at Fashion Heist is great for work or play.  Just add a belt and you can wear with some white or neutral trouser pants (like the ones below by Serpico) or a skirt.  Summer is all about wearing lightweight materials and, if you can wear them, sleeveless yet work appropriate tops.   Check out both this royal blue silk ruffle tank and ruffle sleeve trimmed top by Kate Boggiano.  Both are perfect to wear alone or bring a blazer or lightweight sweater with you, if you cannot wear sleeveless tops to work.

Some great bottoms to pair with the above tops are this adorable ruffle back pencil skirt, also by Kate Boggiano.  At the time of this posting, it’s also on sale for $65, which is such a great deal for a unique staple to have in every girl’s wardrobe.  Add a little twist to a basic skirt with this fitted asymmetrical hem skirt by Horacio Nieto.  This would be so cute for work, but also with a cute top for a fun night out.  And if you’re looking for work pants that are a little different than the usual, yet professional; check out these neutral colored cropped trouser pants by Serpico.

Finally, since I always seem to start with dresses, I figured we’d finish with some this time.   How can anyone not love this adorable floral print shirt dress by Kate Boggiano?  She just makes work clothes so much more fun.  And you can combine this season’s tie dye trend with a professional look by wearing this cowlneck sleeveless dress at Fashion Heist, designed by JLee Silver.  I also absolutely love the pattern and lavender color (hmm…me loving purple hues?  Imagine that…) of this printed shift dress which can also be found at Fashion Heist.  And if you’re looking for a year-round staple, try this cowlneck dress.  It’s available in blue or brown, and can be worn alone with sandals in summer; or paired with a turtleneck underneath or sweater/blazer on top with tights and boots for fall/winter.  Think about the functionality of it, then let the thoughts of fall and winter drift from your mind.

And as a side note, you can not only find these clothes online, but also at boutiques in and around Chicago.  For example, almost all the designers above can be found at Cerato Boutique off Southport, and Serpico has it’s own free standing store in Bucktown.