dotty, my outfit process, and jackets

i've been cataloging all sorts of creative young professional outfits over the past year-ish and i've gotten some questions lately about how to transform a simple or casual look into something that's more professional.  so, here goes...


there's nothing wrong with some good comfy casual separates, but i've got to at least look like i'm not ready for an afternoon nap on the couch when i show up for work.


this is definitely the biggest step.  i've collected a slew of jackets over the last few years since they seem to always make outfits look more put-together.  


oversized pearl earrings and a clustered necklace add a bit of fanciness.


it isn't always practical for me to wear heels, but these medium height wedges are a good compromise between flats and need-to-hold-the-handrail tall heels.  


i end up putting my hair up around 3pm a lot of the time, but i like to at least start off the day with my hair down.  


well, there you have it!  this is pretty much how i get dressed everyday.  i start with something comfy that i want to wear and then dress it up so that i can wear it to work.  

[wearing]
tee: american apparel (exactly)
pants: j.crew factory (exactly)
jacket: h&m (similar)
flats: cole haan (similar)
heels: merona (exactly)
necklace: forever21