The Heat is On

Hey everyone, it's officially summer and I'm officially back (this time around catch me on Tuesdays and Thursdays). I love summer, but the heat is definitely on. The only problem is, I still have to go to work in all that hot sun. Mondays are bad enough now I have to look out at everyone running around in shorts and tank tops while I'm in a suit. Well no more, for now on I will make a vow to stay (and look) cool while it's hot. Here's a couple of suggestions.


A feminine alternative to a stuffy blazer...

Pair with a classic sheath dress to add a cool twist to a conservative look. For a weekend look go completely sweet by pairing with florals or soften a tougher look (i.e. denim, summer leather) by adding lace.
LaRok Vintage Lace Shirt Jacket $268









A classic look goes cool...




Take Fall's go-to jacket straight into summer. Sleeveless and still sleek.
Wear for work paired with a pencil skirt or light slacks. Wear for play unbuttoned over a feminine dress or a tank and short shorts.
Torn by Ronny Kobo Alana Trench Coat $374.



Oh and by the way, speaking of heat-GO LAKERS!

Taking Care Of Business

It looks like it's the beginning of yet another work week. No matter how we feel about Mondays, the majority of us have to go to work. With unemployment in the double digits in some areas, a big chunk of us who aren't reporting to work today are looking for a job (not trying to depress you, but those are the breaks). I can't think of a better reason to put your best foot forward at work (I know it's sad, I'll make any excuse to shop*sigh*). Here's some options that work and are good and cheap too.

Try a men's wear inspired vest instead of a blazer for a fresh look. Double Breasted Tweed Vest $39.50, Marissa Fit Tweed Pant $29.99, Victoria's Secret.

Say so long to the stuffy suit. Pull together a professional look with a sweater dress. So versatile you can wear it alone, belt it and add a long cardigan or a cropped jacket.

Cotton Rib Turtleneck Sweater Dress $39, Victoria's Secret.

Saturday Night Fever On A Wednesday?

Hey, John Travolta called-he said he wants his suit back. He can have it back right after I steal his Saturday Night Fever style for summer. The white suit is back and hotter than ever! It's the summer's most versatile suit.

right photo:White Blazer $150, 718 Martin Sleek Straight Pant $79, Banana Republic.

• Wear it to work with a button down for a crisp and professional look


• Remove the button down, wear the blazer alone (sexy and low cut), keep on the white pants and add sky high sandal stilettos out on the town for a sexy and sophisticated look


• Use just the blazer and roll up the sleeves as your go-to summer jacket paired with everything from cut off shorts to sweet sundresses


• Go super casual a la Crockett and Tubbs and throw the suit over a colorful tank top and cute flip flops


• Don't forget to buy in summer friendly materials like stretch cotton sateen or linen to keep you cool and comfortable
  

...The possibilities are endless. Leave it to me to hook you up and show you how to get the most bang for your buck from one suit and steal from John Travolta, Crockett and Tubbs in the process.

Boss Lady: Career Solutions For Presidental Style

Dressing for work can be so boring. Why not not take a cue from our newest fashion icon, Michelle Obama, and work it for the office. Here's a couple of quick tips inspired by Mrs. O to help you be a boss (or at least look like one) and stand out in the corporate crowd.

1. Buy the not so corporate suit


2. Add a pop of color
   

above photos: Getty Images

Linen Blend Short Jacket $58 & Slim Pant $58, Victoria's Secret. Replace the button down with a black tank, add a belt and you have instant corporate cool.

Abstract Print Dress $79.99, Classic Cotton No Iron Shirt $59 & Leather Woven Belt $59, Banana Republic. Is this enough color for you?

Oval Buckle Belt $49, Banana Republic. Rev up dull neutrals by wrapping up with a colorful belt.

Click here for more tips on First Lady Michelle Obama's classic style.

You Better Work: Easy Stylish Options

We all have to work for a living if you enjoy sleeping in a warm bed and eating meals from time to time. But some of us have really conservative jobs that can really put a damper on a girl's style. Why settle for the old, boring predictable suit. Try wearing more dresses to work for a more feminine look that's done in a snap (just throw on and go). Banana Republic is my favorite spot for work options. They always have classic styles with a little twist and are priced pretty reasonable (and they're always having a sale). If you have to pay full price check back in two weeks for a price adjustment (forever the savvy shopper). Look how easy (and fun) dressing for work can be. If you can remember to set your alarm you'll be ready for that promotion in no time. Besides, how else can you get away with buying an entire work outfit for around $100-$150?

(above photo: Cotton Belted Shirt Dress $110, Banana Republic -Simple, easy and effortless!)

Cap Sleeve Knit Lady Dress $130, Banana Republic

Very ladylike but still professional in a soft feminine color.

BR Monogram Princess Sleeve Dress $149, Banana Republic

The black dress reads conservative but the princess sleeves add a little drama.

Floral Print Dress $150, Banana Republic

Everybody loves flowers. Tone this down for work by adding a cardigan with a belt.