Sugar Coated

Cabi Coat, True Royal Pants, Worth New York Tank and Belt, Jimmy Choo Pumps, Chanel Clutch, Christian Dior Shades, Cox and Power Ring, Robin Terman Choker and Earrings. 

  This coat by Cabi is a sweet deal. At $169.00, it is worth every penny. First off, is it easy to wear either dressed up with a pair of tailored pants, or casually with a pair of jeans. A dressy coat over a pair of pants does double duty as a pantsuit, but with even more versatility. In my opinion, it is a far better investment than a blazer.

In addition, you can wear it over a skirt or dress for a more polished look. Either way, you cannot lose. These days, when the temperatures have been mild on both coasts, it is a balmy 64 degrees in NYC today, you can wear this coat now and then again in the spring. Here in southern California, you can layer a sweater underneath for added warmth.

  I want to reiterate that navy and black pair beautifully. I have many friends who ask me what they can wear with navy, and when I tell them, “black,” they look at me quizzically. Black and navy go together like salt and pepper. They don’t appear to be likely partners, but they compliment each other in just the right way. This coat would look great over a pair of black pants, skirt or dress.

  A dressy coat over a pair of pants does double duty as a pantsuit, but with even more versatility. In my opinion, it is a far better investment than a blazer.

Fancy Pants

Worth New York Tunic and Belt, True Royal Pants (Savannah Santa Monica), Sandro Heels, Calypso St. Barth Hoop Earrings, Balenciaga Handbag (similar for less here), Celine Sunglasses, Vintage Bracelet (Savannah Santa Monica). 

  Whenever I receive an invitation that calls for dressy or festive attire, I immediately go to my cocktail dress collection and choose one that says “party.” However, I am out to break that habit and venture into wearing fancy pants, dressy pantsuits or even a tuxedo with a fabulous blouse or top underneath. 

   This outfit is a mash up of different designers, working in perfect harmony. These lace pants by True Royal had me at hello. I loved everything about them right down to the scalloped bottom. The same goes for this chic knit tunic by Worth New York. The slit is too high to be worn alone, but topped over fancy pants or even denim, the versatility of this piece is endless. I added this chain belt for a little edgy definition at the waist and love the way it drops over the abdomen. Adding these suede and lace pumps by Sandro, completes the look. With an outfit as busy as this one, jewelry should be kept to minimum, but still make a statement. These large but thin hoop earrings by Calypso St. Barth are my new go to and my beloved vintage YSL cuff is simultaneously a simple and bold statement piece.

  Let’s talk about the benefits of a small but expandable purse that can take you from day to night with a removable shoulder strap. This is a must have for every woman. I love this one by Balenciaga, but there are many lower priced versions for you to consider and I have provided a couple of them here in this post.

  So, Miss Fancy Pants, next time your invitation calls for “festive attire,” think outside the cocktail dress box and create an outfit from pieces you already have in your closet!