This outfit formula has been going down well with my business casual clients this season as we head into warmer temperatures. It’s on trend, comfortable and just flattering enough. It combines a fluid and untucked high-low top with slim-fit trousers that aren’t skintight. It finishes off the look with an indoor jacket and refined footwear, which adds structure back into the outfit. 

Here are the components, with examples of some of the exact pieces that my clients purchased: 

• Fluid High-Low Top: BCBG’s Ayana Oversized Scarf Shirt has a dramatic high-low hemline. But if you wear it over low-contrast black pants instead of the houndstooth pattern below, the effect of the shirttail is less visible and dramatic. 
• Slim-Fit Pants: Sloan-Fit Houndstooth Ankle Pants create a subtle pattern mixed effect. These pants are stretchy and you might need to size up. Wear them at a flattering length. 
• Structured Topper: The Loft Lace Blazer is tuxedo-esque and pretty structured on the shoulder and sleeves, which is all you need to make this outfit look conventionally attractive. The open shape of the jacket matches the flow of the roomy blouse. If matching lace with pattern is too much of a stretch for your style, try a solid double weave open jacket in a similar silhouette. 
• Refined Footwear: Vince’s Aurelian Pump is two toned with fashionable d’Orsay detailing. Super soft, low heeled and comfortable. Size down half a size to prevent slipping out of the style. Works relatively well on high volume feet.

If classic blazers, Chanel-esque jackets or lightweight moto jackets are your thing, wear those topper silhouettes OPEN instead of the tuxedo-esque style that I’ve shown here. Silky track pants also work quite well in this formula, but then you will either rely more heavily on the topper to provide structure to the outfit, or partially tuck the front of the top to create a hint of waistline. I’ve also seen this formula work with bootcut trousers that are fitted on the thigh. 

Feel free to throw in dressy slipper flats or loafers if heels are not an option. Or caged sandals if open toe shoes are permitted at work. 

Finally, wear a sleeved top under the jacket if sleeveless dressing is not your cup of tea and you might need to remove the jacket for a breezy break.