An affordable, thickly lined peplum in this season’s signature oxblood color. Pair with a sock bun, heeled loafers, and a fully buttoned white oxford at work, then go simple and sexy with black stilettos and a solid gold cuff for date night. $128 at Armani Exchange.
Your coat is the first thing people see—and this leather-sleeved trench is business in the center and party on the sides. It’s edgy-meets-polished perfection for under $170—what more could you want? $168 at Macy’s.
Walter Baker’s moody, romantic florals work with a blazer, booties, and opaque tights at the office, but are totally eye-catching with a red lip and cage heels at night. $178 at the Walter Collection.
A personality-filled metallic piece that looks fun tucked into a tweed pencil or a leather mini. $59 at A Thread.
Black ankle booties. So necessary no matter how you spend your days. If you’re not going wedge (recommended), opt for a thick, stacked heel like you see here. $129 at Zara.
The dalmatian print on this cropped trouser is less cutesy than polka dots, but still a step up from your basic black pant. Pair with a bright crewneck sweater at work, then try a sheer, textured black top for a concert at the 9:30 club. $64 at Loft.
A wear-with-anything necklace that’s just “tough girl” enough to show you mean business at the bar or in that big meeting. $99 at Beth Lauren Jewelry.
Gold loafers. Maybe don’t wear ’em with the gold sweater, but other than that, the possibilities are endless. Think denim and nautical stripes for a casual dinner, or with preppy J.Crew separates at work. Haydee loafer, $188 at Coach.
The classy leather backpack. Because let’s face it, sometimes totes are just a pain in the butt to carry. $150 on Etsy.
If you’re a stud girl, consider upgrading your pearls for this slightly more special pair. $42 at Otte.
Style it like you would a solid black peplum (the silhouette is a must-have this fall) to add interest to any outfit. $48 at Asos.
Your new wear-it-everywhere bag, complete with discreet bike straps and an iPad slot. A bit on the pricier side, but so totally worth it. Also in red or black, $495 at Loeffler Randall.
