Today’s Outfit Idea: Going to the Matte for Dressed-Up Denim

All right, all you ladies who push your style aside because you’re too dang busy just trying to get your kids or your partner or yourself out the door in the morning – the Fastionista is here to ease your style fear.

I love any chance I can get to take a classic combination and update it, so when I saw that matte satin is a texture coming on to the scene, I couldn’t wait to pair a matte satin blouse with blue jeans (in place of the more classic silk blouse and blue jeans). Matte satin is exactly what it sounds like: less shiny satin, similar to a charmeuse. So here’s what’s in my closet today:

· Floral Print Matte Satin Blouse: I want to start off with a bold print and some color, and this short-sleeved blouse does both with a yellow and gray floral. It also features a tie embellishment. I love it when I can get color, shine (even a matte satin has a little shine), texture, and pattern all into one piece! I think it’s gonna be a good day.

· Trouser Jeans: The wide-leg pant made a bit of a showing this past summer and fall, and it’s back again in pre-fall for 2012. Dark-wash denim is always the way to go for the workplace, and a wide-leg trouser fit just amps up the classy factor. A perfect match for the chic style of my blouse.

· Trench Coat Completer: I almost don’t want a completer piece, because I want to show off my blouse, but baby it’s cold outside (thanks for coming back just in time for me to wear my new blouse, winter). So I’ll keep my lightweight, belted red trench with me for when I inevitably get chilly during the day.

· Accessories: My red trench has a gold belt buckle, so to pick up on that gold (and mix it with a little silver) I’ll wear my gold and silver twisty ring. I’ve got a lot going on up top with this blouse, so I don’t want to do a necklace or earrings that are distracting, but subtle amber stud earrings, set in silver, should be fine. Since I’ve got that belt on my trench (and the tie embellishment on my blouse) I think I have enough accessories going on.

· Purse: An LBC (Little Black Clutch) will be perfect with this, but to add just a touch more shine I’ll choose one with sequin detailing running through it.

· SHOES!: In keeping with the ’20s fad coming back in style, I’ll go with red pumps that pay homage to the look, sporting a cutaway design and supported ankle. Their muted shine echoes that of my blouse, and their shade of red matches my trench.

Voila! There you have it: great fashion fast. And you, gorgeous lady, are ready to take on the world, Fastionista Style!

Yesterday I talked about dressing up at the office, but what about dressing more casually? Don’t forget: casual and comfortable can still be professional and fashion-forward! No matter if your style is more conservative or more chic, as long as fit comes first, your garments are in good condition, and you're dressing age-appropriately, casual can be great. Add a necklace and bracelet, and you can kick things up a notch while still dressing "down." As with anything else in your wardrobe, your casual office wear should reflect your personality - remember, you're beautiful! Everything you wear should make you feel as beautiful as you are.