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Amazon Fashion for Work: Spring Looks under $30

March 18, 2019 by Virginia 12 Comments

AMAZON HAUL_fashion for work_teacher style_teacher outfits_spring fashion_all under 30

As I explained in this post, I’ve been ordering a lot of Amazon fashion for work. And, since the first day of Spring is Wednesday, I’m glad I started early! Now, I’m really ready to begin the new season!

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When You Can’t Go to the Mall

Though I spend a lot of time online shopping, my favorite thing to do is go to the mall. I grab a Starbucks latte (for this Seattle girl, it’s like comfort food! lol) and meander through the stores, looking at the latest styles and just getting some free time. There’s just something relaxing about going to the mall.

However, for the last month, all my free time has been taken up cleaning and painting and sanding to get our downstairs unit ready to rent out again. After a lot of damage done by our last tenant, it has been a huge task to renovate. Since we really need income from that unit to pay for all the damage we’ve had to repair, that has been the priority. So, no mall visits for me lately. But, never fear! Amazon to the rescue!

Since I have seen quite a lot of blogger friends sharing great finds from Amazon, I decided I would try my luck. I’ve been pleasantly surprised with the results.

Shopping on Amazon for Work Clothes

Most Amazon fashion items I ordered for work are available with Prime shipping. Prime has been totally worth the cost for us. Not only are we able to ship most of our Christmas presents to family with free Prime shipping, but we order different things we can’t find locally multiple times a month. They get here with free shipping in only two days. It was only natural that I finally try more fashion items.

Here’s the catch though – I don’t have the kind of budget that some people have for clothes. If I buy an expensive item, it’s because I know the quality will make a difference in the long run. Otherwise, I try to keep costs under $30 per item.

Most of the Amazon faves I’ve seen from blogger friends are more casual, but my closet is built for work. This haul reflects that. I wanted to see if I could find quality pieces appropriate for the casual work environment and still keep it under $30.

All of these items are under $30 and most are under $20.

I’ve broken it down below into the following:

Bottoms
Tops
Accessories

My Amazon Fashion for Work Haul

Bottoms

Flared Midi Skit:$20 (free shipping and returns with Prime)

Amazon Fashion for work_under 30-pink midi skirt-teacher fashion — HERE

Important facts: Beautiful color and it is lined, but it is still a little too see-through for me. Also, note that there is no stretch in the waist.

Size: I would usually order a M, according to the size chart, but I ordered L instead. It fit well. I probably could have gone down a size too and been ok.

Colors: I ordered the regular “pink” color but it comes in 10 colors!

Pleated A-line Swing Skirt : $30 (free shipping and returns with Prime)

Amazon Fashion for work_under 30-Pink pleated midi skirt_teacher style — HERE

Important Facts: This was one of my absolute favorite items ordered. It’s GORGEOUS! If I didn’t have a very similar skirt, I would have kept this one. It is not see-through and the skirt swishes very pleasantly! The top is elastic, which makes it very comfortable.

Size: I ordered a size L (two sizes up from my normal size) and it was just right. The size chart is accurate from what I can tell so check it before you order.

Colors: It comes in 4 colors. I ordered it in pink. The pink is quite vibrant!

This designer also makes a slightly longer pleated skirt you can find HERE. It’s also quite lovely.

Amazon for work_pleated pink skirt_under 30_spring style_teacher fashion

Pleated Polka Dot Skirt: $19 (Prime Shipping and Returns)

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve seen this skirt a few times already. It’s definitely one of my new favorite things! I love the bright yellow! It just makes me happy!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Virginia Evans | Teacher Style (@moretomrse) on Feb 28, 2019 at 4:59am PST

Important facts: The lining on this skirt doesn’t come down as far as I like. I wish it was a little longer. However, because I love the color so much, I just add a slip and then I’m fine. The other thing to note is that every time I wear it, it feels pretty static-y. Now…I have been unusually static-y lately (no idea why) so it could just be me. But, you’ve been warned.

Oh yes, and the good news?! It has pockets! Score!

Size: I ordered my normal size, a S and it fits. It might be a little more comfortable pulling on and off if it was a M.

Colors: There are 7 colors and I want them all!

Tops for Work

Ruffle Sleeve and Ruffle Hem Floral Top:$10! (free shipping and returns with Prime)

Amazon Fashion for work_ruffle floral peplum top_under 15 — HERE

Important Facts: I was obsessed with this top and, yes, you read correctly! It’s only $10! The pretty ruffle sleeve is a playful touch and the length is just right in back. It would be the perfect top for spring if you like an over-sized fit or usually wear a Medium or larger. The fabric is very soft and thin, but not see-through.

Size: Runs Large. This is a S and it was still a little too loose to be flattering on me. I did return it.

Colors: It comes in 3 colors. This color combo is both soft and vibrant. Compared to the next one, this one has more corals, pinks and yellows.

Amazon for work_floral peplum top_floral ruffle sleeve tee_under 15_spring fashion_teacher style

Short Sleeve Floral Peplum: $17 (free shipping and returns with Prime)

Amazon Fashion for work_under 20_floral peplum top — HERE

Important Facts: This one is very similar to the last one, without the ruffle sleeves. It’s a silkier fabric and very comfortable. I have been wearing it frequently and it goes nicely on its own or under a blazer or jean jacket.

However, I will note that there is no designation on the inside to tell you which side is the back. This drives me nuts and I put it on backwards almost every time. Anyone have a good way to remedy this without writing on the shirt?

Size: This one runs a little smaller. I ordered a M in this one and it was about the same size as the S in the previous floral top. I eventually exchanged it for a S.

Colors: 8 styles available. The pinks are darker in this pattern than the last floral peplum.

Amazon for work_floral peplum top_spring tee_under 15_spring fashion_teacher style

High Neck Ruched Bell Sleeve Peplum Top: $22 (free, non-prime shipping)

White Peplum Top_Amazon_wear to work-7400 — HERE

Important facts: This one took much longer to ship than the others. In fact, I wasn’t sure when it would actually come. But, when it got here I fell in love!!

It is see-through so I wear it over a tank. The sleeves are a little short but I like this since it makes it easier to show off watches and bracelets. The rushing on the front is so flattering and the ruffle at the neck (which I forgot to untuck after doing my makeup! sorry!) is beautiful. It even has little puff sleeves!

Size: I ordered a M and it fits well, though I might recommend sizing up two sizes (to a L for me) because it is fitted anyway and that would give more stretch for pulling it on and off.

Colors: 5 colors available!

Amazon for work_buy on Amazon_White peplum bell sleeve top_spring work outfit_spring fashion_teacher style

High Waist Striped Midi Dress: $24 (free shipping and returns with Prime)

Amazon Fashion for work_under 30_striped dress — HERE

I realize this is neither a top or a bottom, but I decided to put it here.

Important Facts: I loved this. I really feel like you can’t have enough stripe options. I can see myself wearing this with a blazer, long cardigan, short cardigan, scarf, etc. It’s not lined, but also not see-through.

Size: I ordered a M, which is about what I would usually order in a dress like this. It’s a perfect fit.

Colors: It comes in three colors and would be great year-round.

Bonus: Accessories

Though these aren’t particular to the work environment, I felt like I should include them since they are all from Amazon. Plus, there are some good deals in here.

Wire Frame Round Oversized Sunglasses: $26.88 (Prime shipping, 1 day)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Virginia Evans | Teacher Style (@moretomrse) on Jan 30, 2019 at 6:01pm PST

I bought these in an attempt to have a Chloe-like look and I’m satisfied with them. They sit pretty low on the nose, but I love the look and they do a great job of blocking the sun.

Even better, this retailer has Free one-day shipping and free returns. ALSO, if you scroll to the bottom of the Amazon page, there are coupon codes that allow you to get another pair of glasses free. (see the next pair below)

Plus, the glasses come in a nice case with a microfiber cloth and a little eyeglasses repair tool! Pretty good deal, if I do say so myself!

Tortoise Semi-rimless Polarized Sunglasses: $24.88 or free (Prime shipping)

These sunglasses came as a nice surprise when I discovered the coupon code at the bottom of the previous eyeglasses listing. Like the one above, it came with a case, eyeglasses repair tool and microfiber cloth. You can see me wearing this in last week’s post HERE.

Beaded Drop Earrings: $8.59 (Prime shipping)

Amazon for work_buy on Amazon_blue beaded dangle earrings_colorful spring jewelry_spring fashion_teacher style — HERE

My hubby got these for me as part of my Valentine’s Day gift and I am in LOVE (with both the earrings and the husband, of course!). They are the perfect size for me (not too over-sized) and they come in 16 colors and combinations!!

If you order only one thing from this post, I would say get these! I may need to get some more colors as we head into Summer!

And that wraps up this Amazon fashion for work haul! There were so many good things on Amazon! I definitely recommend checking them out!

What was your favorite from the haul? Definitely make sure to share with a friend who is an Amazon fan too!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

~Virginia

Dress Up A Basic Outfit: Leopard Accents

February 25, 2019 by Virginia 14 Comments

I’ve been on a mission lately to show you more ways to wear some important basics in your closet. The easiest way to do that is to dress up a basic outfit made up of items you likely already have in your closet or items you should have in your closet. One of those important basics is a chambray button-up. I believe that every teacher needs a chambray top because there are so many ways to wear it in a casual professional environment like teaching. (For more on “casual professional,” see this post.) That being said, it’s so casual that I forget to wear it to work until I make a point of pulling it out!

This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on/make a purchase through those links, I will make a small commission. For more information, please see my Privacy Policy.

A Basic Outfit Base

On one of my days off a few weeks ago I brainstormed a few new ways to wear my chambray button-up and this was one that I came up with. In this case, the chambray isn’t even the focus. In fact, there really isn’t a focus because it’s all rather basic.

To dress up a basic outfit, you need a collection of everyday neutrals. In my closet, a good pair of black skinny jeans and a cable knit sweater are two important everyday neutrals. They both pair nicely with the chambray top and together, I think of it like a casual outfit turned upside down. Instead of the jeans on the bottom with a black top, you have the black on the bottom with a “jean” top.

You could always wear this outfit as-is, but it was a little too plain for me. My favorite part about a basic outfit base is that it allows me to bring in more of my personality in the accessories.

Dress Up With Some Leopard Accents

My love of leopard is nothing new here (see!), so it shouldn’t be surprising that I pulled out my trusty leopard mules. They are often the pop I use to add a little personality because they go with everything. In this case though, I felt like there was still something missing up top. There was texture from the cable knit sweater but no additional pattern, and that was just a little too blah for this girl.

The fun thing about this outfit though, is that you can dress it up a lot of different ways. Accessories are a great way to add some personality to an otherwise simple outfit. You could add in a bright, candy-colored statement necklace (do you remember this one?! I still have it!) with some fun pink pumps. Or, maybe add a silk scarf to the mix. In this case I used the belt from my leopard dress as a scarf and I love how it turned out.

Sometimes you just need to play with your wardrobe a bit. For me, it’s a way to express a different part of my creative side that sometimes feels stifled after a long work week. It’s fun for me to play around with color and patterns. When my eyes were scanning my wardrobe for what to pair with this outfit, they fell on the leopard dress and I knew I just had to try something new. Now that I have a “new” accessory in my repetoire, I know that I will be pulling it out more as the weather starts to warm up.

What are your favorite ways to dress up a basic outfit? Do you have any belts you could try as a headband?

Get the Look

Similar Button-Up Chambray || Black Skinny Jeans || White Cable Knit Sweater || Leopard Mules (see similar in widget below) || Lipstick || Backpack || Leopard Dress (belt used as headband) || Watch (on sale!) || Similar Star Earrings || Stone Bracelet || Hermes Bracelet Dupe

Thanks so much for visiting and come back soon!

~Virginia

Casual “Professional Dress”

February 18, 2019 by Virginia 20 Comments

black over-the-knee boots_black blazer_professional dress_gucci dupe_work outfit_teacher fashion-6736

You know, professional doesn’t have to mean boring. I have had a long history of fighting society’s idea of what professionalism looks like. Are jeans professional? What about a pencil skirt? How short can that pencil skirt be? Long skirt? Skirts at all?!? The fact of the matter is, what is considered “professional dress” is in flux.

Note: As with anything on my blog, this post represents my personal opinion. You are welcome to disagree with me but I would ask that you keep any responses to this post civil.

“Professional Dress” in High School

In no place has “professional dress” defied interpretation the most as in the High School environment. Female students show up to formal presentations in tiny, bodycon skirts and towering heels. It’s not so much that I fear for their morals as much as the effectiveness of their presentation. One false step and not only could there be serious injury, but the entire class would see what was not-so-carefully-concealed.

black over-the-knee boots_black blazer_professional dress_gucci belt dupe_work style_teacher fashion_standards_professional_dress

Ok, I hear you fellow feminists crying foul! I’m all about having what you wear give you confidence (or not being defined by what you wear), but I also believe that what should be memorable from a presentation is not what a person is wearing (or how sexy they look), but what that person presents and how they support what they know. A tight, short skirt is both constricting (making movement dangerous) and draws attention away from the argument itself. Young women, however, are not the only ones in High School who don’t quite grasp “professional dress.”

Throughout my teaching career I would have conversations with young men the day before a presentation where they would stare at me incomprehensibly when I explained, again, why shorts wouldn’t cut it for “professional dress.” In some circles, I had to add “jeans” to the list of banned clothing too, if the rules of the department or school insisted.

black blazer_professional dress_black over-the-knee boots_black otk boots_gucci belt dupe_teacher outfit

You see, some schools have their own policies of what is considered “professional dress.” For instance, one High School where I worked had a no-jeans policy for teachers. Are jeans professional enough? Apparently not there (though, to my great annoyance, garishly patterned leggings passed muster). So clearly, if jeans weren’t “professional dress” for teachers, then I couldn’t very well allow the boys (or girls) to wear jeans for their presentations. (“But Mrs. Evans! I don’t even own pants that aren’t jeans!”)

Clearly, the students needed help knowing what “professional dress” included. So, last year I actually had to visually define it for my students. (See those two slides from the presentation below, if you’re interested!)

professional dress for high school students_presentation outfit_wear for presentation

Attempting to set some standards

So really…what is considered professional? At this point, I think it’s fair to say that it is determined by the standards of your organization. However, I would like to advocate for jeans and over-the-knee-boots to be considered casually professional. (Yes, high school boys…I’m with you on the jeans to a certain extent.) I believe that it’s all in the way that you wear those two items.

*This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on/make a purchase through the link, I may make a small commission. For more information, please see my Privacy Policy.

Now…I see there being a formula to this madness:

Jeans + a t-shirt = not professional on their own (in my world). However, Jeans + a t-shirt + a blazer over the top…👌 Jeans + a t-shirt + a designer belt + fashionable pumps….✔ for casual professional dress.

black over-the-knee boots_black blazer_professional dress_gucci belt dupe_work outfit_teacher fashion

What about over-the-knee boots? Short skirt + OTK boots = not professional in my world. Tight dress + OTK boots…probably not. However, midi dress + OTK boots…probably ok. Pencil skirt + OTK boots + long cardigan = 👌 Any type of skinny jean + OTK boots + long tunic or cardigan = ✔

I believe that the key to making these items professional is to pair them with other, unarguably professional pieces. As in this outfit, a blazer adds a sense of professionalism to any outfit. You don’t need to pair it with matching slacks or a pencil skirt to be professional, especially casually professional (which is, I believe, becoming more common in workplaces). Professional doesn’t need to be boring! Pair your blazer with jeans and some classy pumps! Like a blazer, pumps make just about any outfit classy.

professional dress_black over-the-knee boots_black blazer_gucci belt dupe_work outfit_teacher fashion

Pairing over-the-knee boots or jeans with a long cardigan takes the attention away from the “unprofessional” pieces. So much of the jeans being covered by the OTK boots means that you almost don’t even notice the jeans themselves!

What is considered “professional dress” is in flux, for sure. In some work environments, casual professional dress may not be professional enough and jeans may really not be appropriate. However, I believe that the key to dressing professionally is in the overall look, not the individual pieces. You can be trendy and still professional.

Get the Look:

casual work outfit_teacher ootd_jeans at work_black otk boots_black blazer_snakeskin bag_affordable fashion

Black Blazer || Sweater || Skinny Jeans (love these and so affordable!) || Belt – similar – || Black OTK Boots || Bag Set || Earrings || Watch (on sale!)|| Hermes Bracelet Dupe || Cuff Bracelet – similar –

A few notes on these items:

These otk boots (also worn here and also here) are amazing – the entire top is elastic, which helps them stay up. Also, the block heels are short enough to still be comfortable.
This bag is one of a set of 7 items, all for under $40! The quality isn’t amazing, but it’s the perfect price for a trendy accent piece. You can see me review it under the “Amazon” tap of my Instagram Highlights. (While you’re there, I would love it if you’d follow me!)
I got these skinny jeans on Black Friday and I love them. They are always going on sale and comfortable and flattering on my frame. The pockets aren’t my favorite, but I find I can ignore them for the fit and price!

I’m wondering, would jeans cut it at your workplace if paired with a blazer? More than that, what other items would you consider unarguably professional?

Thanks so much for stopping by!

~Virginia