If you like strong black and white casual outfit combinations that err on the side of dressy, this gal on the go outfit formula is for you. In some ways it’s the opposite of the earthier 70’s Mum on the Go outfit combination I posted recently.

You’ll be surprised at how many items you’ll already have in your closet, so shop there first. Here are the components:

• Striped Top: Choose a black and white striped sweater or tee, although navy/grey and white striped tops are great alternatives. The cozy sweater from Aqua and pussy bow tank from Bobeau below fit well and offer extra length.
• Black Jacket: I’ve selected a soft and lightweight casual jersey boyfriend blazer by Halogen which is as comfy as wearing a cardigan. But any black, navy or charcoal blazer will create the look.
• Jeans: Straight leg, skinny or slightly flared bootcuts look best with ballet flats. Choose any wash of blue or black jeans.
• Ballet flats: Chanel is all about two toned ballet flats with bows much like the Lifestride Avid below. Black and white, or black and tan are the most authentic Chanel colour combinations. Feel free to substitute with dressy black ballet flats.
• Flower Pin: I like the effect of a low contrasting flower pin best on a black jacket, much like the lace rosette brooch from Aldo. Tres chic.
• Jewelry: Layering lots of pearl necklaces is typical Chanel style, but it can look a little flashy for a gal on the go. So stick to simple pearl stud earrings and an enamel cocktail ring. Layer those pearl necklaces with this outfit if feeling glam is your thing. I certainly won’t stop you!
• Chain Strap cross body bag: Small cross-body bags are practical and easy on the back and shoulders, and perfect for this look in black, tan or white. I couldn’t resist incorporating the Libby chain strap crossbody bag by Hobo International. Adorably Chanel inspired.

Wearing a black felt cloche is optional and a good idea on a bad hair day (Coco would be proud). And one last thing before I leave you to play Chanel in your closet – one of my favorite fashion quotes from Coco Chanel herself: “Beauty is no guarantee for happiness. Strive instead for elegance, grace and style”.

Fabulous Australian-based image consultant, Imogen Lamport, is doing series of posts called “Stylish Thoughts” on her blog Inside Out Style. She interviewed me a few weeks ago and the result was posted today. They were thought provoking questions and I hope you check out the post.

Other fashion bloggers have also participated in Imogen’s “Stylish Thoughts” series, including Sal from Already Pretty, Kristen from K –Line, Lisa from Privilege and Renee the Bra Queen. We all answered a subset of the same set of questions, so you can compare our points of view.

Thanks for the opportunity to ponder those questions, Imogen. I enjoyed answering them and also enjoyed reading the other interviews.

Since flared jeans and trouser jeans are all the rage this season, I’ve put together a list of my top picks so far. We’ll probably see more great styles as the season unfolds.

The list covers a range of price points, styles and washes. I’ve had all the styles on myself and on clients. (Note: I have not included basic bootcut shapes in this list. Please go to the YLF Store for those recommendations).

1. Citizens of Humanity “Hutton” Mid-Rise Wide Leg Stretch Denim Trousers ($189): They are stunning. The front rise is a great length and the drape is flattering.  Fab front pocket detailing. Unfortunately they are not too kind to your wallet.
2. 7 For All Mankind “Ginger” Wide leg Stretch Denim Pants ($155): These are a little dressier than the Huttons and just as nice. They offer more of a trouser vibe.
3. David Kahn Wide Leg Stretch Jeans ($168): Mr. Kahn knows how to make a pair of jeans and these are no exception. The front and back rises are extra high and the inseams have extra length. Great for tall gals. My 70 year old client looks KILLER in these when she wears them with pumps and blazers.
4. Express Flare Leg Stella Regular Fit Jeans ($69.90): These look more like bell bottoms once they are on the body. The fit is tight to the knee and then flares out quite extensively to the hems. They are probably the most comfortable of the lot because the denim is super soft and stretchy.
5. Banana Republic Deep Blue Trouser jean ($89.50): Quite nice, but stay away if side entry pockets are not your thing.
6. Gap New Wide Leg Trouser Jeans (pintucked) ($79.50): Very long, very wide and very 70’s. These are the most dramatic of the bunch, so try them if you love 70’s fashion and have a daring fashion streak.
7. Gap New Wide Leg Trouser Jeans (faded dark wash) ($69.50): They fit well, are less dramatic than the pintucked style, and are good value for money.
8. Ann Taylor Loft Marisa Tanzanite Wash Trouser Jean ($69.50): Playful and fun. I really like the faded wash, front pocket placement and wider leg width. They look best when worn a little roomy all over.
9. Halogen “Taylor Cotton Sheen” Pants ($78): Super comfy and polished. No front pockets! They run at least a size big, so size down.
10. Jag Jeans “Maine” Trousers ($79): These look ten times better on the body than in the photograph. I swear my client looks so much better than the model. They run true to size and have length. Soft, stretchy and comfortable.
11. Lucky Charlie Flare Jeans ($129.00): For those who prefer a low rise, these are fab. Soft and stretchy.
12. Express Wide Waistband Editor Pant Jeans ($59.90): I love these. They are my top pick for my own wardrobe from this list. They look dressy and would absolutely pass for business casual – that’s how polished they look. I adore the broad waistband and how the hems drape over my pumps and boots. A great fit on both curvier and straight body types.
13. Not Your Daughter’s Jeans “Victoria” Plus sized Trouser Jeans ($118): I am generally not a fan of this brand because the denim stretches out like nobody’s business. But I must give credit where it’s due. These look sensational on the body and seem to retain their shape throughout the day.
14. Ann Taylor Denim Trousers ($88): Ann Taylor offers three fits of trouser jeans: modern, signature and curvy. The fabric is divine and it’s a question of trying on the fits to see which works best for you (the modern fit has the straightest cut).They run big so size down. The side entry pocket placement is not ideal, but they’ve added a cool little pocket magnet that prevents the pockets from gaping open. Clever.

Phew! I have tried on lots and lots of flared and trouser jeans this year – enough to last me for the season. I am still happiest in Gap’s Long & Leans because they aren’t too flared and the wash is perfect. I’ll probably add in the trouser jeans from Express because they are a dressier option. And then that will be it for jeans for a very long time.

Feel free to add to this list!

This post includes affiliate links.

I was recently tweeting about a Rachel Roy item when I realized that I have never mentioned her designs here on the blog. The Rachel Roy brand has been around for a while and her stuff always piques my interest. It’s colour-rich, unique and edgy in a happy way. I particularly like her blouses and dresses and have a few fun pieces. The quality is not impeccable, but it meets my (rather strict) bar.

I don’t buy Rachel Roy items directly from her site because Macy’s offers a good selection in stores. Macy’s is also often on sale AND you can use a discount coupon, so it’s an all-round better place to shop for the collection.

Unfortunately Macys online shopping leaves a lot to be desired. Few Rachel Roy items are represented so it’s best to get to stores for a fair impression of the range.  In the meantime, browse through Rachel Roy’s site to whet your appetite. I’ve selected a few of my current favourite pieces below.

I’ve fitted on these blouses and jackets and I liked every one of them.