Blazers are seen everywhere in the corporate world whereas most of us probably only own a couple of vests in our closets.  With summer right around the corner, the best warm-weather alternative to blazers is surely the vest.  We love the versatility of these unique toppers – the sleeveless style makes it a fantastic layering piece.  One thing is clear, vests are simply and undeniably cool.

Our favorite vests of the moment are tuxedo vests that are gracefully chic whether dressed up or down, going from work to out.  Like blazers, it’s worth splurging on high quality vests to wear time after time.

For a professional ensemble, you can wear a tailored vest over a long sleeved dress shirt.  Get the suit look by pairing with matching trousers or with a pencil skirt worn with a short sleeved blouse.

Draped knit vests or zip vests are great with denim pants or over a dress as casual wear – nonchalantly cinch with a belt (especially the long style).

Vests made of airy fabrics like chiffon and silk are breezy in summer while leather and faux fur will keep you cozy in cooler months.

We rounded up some vests for you to enjoy this season.  Make it all your own – you might just inspire others (or at least make their heads turn)!

1. Vivien Tuxedo Vest
2. Linen Belted Sleeveless Suit Jacket
3. Silky Draped Vest
4. Jacquard Quilted Gilet
5. Printed Yoryu Chiffon Vest with Tank
6. Stretch Halter Vest
7. Blazer-Like Vest
8. Drape Front Suede Vest

We are absolutely in love with the “black & beige” color combos – can’t get anymore neutral!  This color pairing is definitely easier to pull off than the colorblock looks in multiple hues.  Below are forever versatile pieces that pack major style.  Some of these items are serious investment pieces to indulge in season after season, year after year.  Don this classy contrast to the office as it will seamlessly incorporate into your existing workwear.

Shift Dress, Square Bangle, Straw Tote, Bow Embellished Pumps, Colorblock Pumps, Raffia Coat

Here are runway looks to inspire you in this season and beyond from the Paul Smith SS 2012 runway show.  Among our favorite pieces are cropped trousers and white blazers.

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As we are soaking in all the goodness the season has to offer, we are also craving chic green bags to sport this spring!  We love this green Balenciaga Papier A4 Tote.  The style is quite simple, yet the edgy accents and the stunning green color (such a flattering hue!) make it stand out among the crowd.  A classic bag that will work for everyone, season after season.

Below are more of our favorite picks in various green tones.  These handbags are sure to energize your wardrobe.  Oh, and the outfit suggestion for each bag is provided.

Kate Spade New York Flicker-Sophie Patent Shoulder Bag – Green perfection!  Simple style and the glossy green patent really caught our attention.  This floral dress and mary jane pumps are begging to be worn with the bag for a brilliant spring look!

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Are you yearning for new clothing to revive your spring workwear?  Give a jumpsuit a go!  The all-in-one piece makes work dressing easy and fun.  Reiss has this super-chic trouser jumpsuit in nude.  Its subtle color and the classy tailoring is well-suited for the office.  What better way to top off a jumpsuit than with a crisp tuxedo blazer?  A White hue is the hottest color this season and it’s a perfect compliment to the nude hue.

Practical yet stylish handbags are not a negotiable accessory for smart career fashionistas.  Our favorite pick at the moment has to be the Stuart Weitzman Shopstrap bag (on 25% off sale) in dark brown with cool hardware accents and plenty room to hold all of your essentials.  Slip into these airy sandals that encompass both an elegant and glamorous style.  Last, but not least, is a fabulous collar necklace to give the outfit a sleek finishing touch.  Oh, and it’s only $29.50!

Here are more work-appropriate jumpsuits to add onto your spring wardrobe.  Versify your jumpsuit by adding different accessories each time such as a belt, scarf, a new handbag or even shoes.

More Newport News…

Grab your style inspiration from the streets!  Chilly weather didn’t stop these fashion lovers from donning bright and bold hues at the recent Fall 2012 fashion week.  Below are among our favorite looks.  See more photos here.

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A classy statement jacket.  Tuxedo style jackets or blazers were among the popular choices from the androgynous trends for the last few seasons.  They were seen on runway shows and sported by celebrities and fashionistas.  A good tailored topper is all it takes to make you feel instantly chic – tuxedo jackets are just that, even better in two-tones.

These soft tux jackets from Dorothy Perkins are no-brainers for incorporating into your workwear.  We love the refreshing two-tone colors with a less formal vibe.  The soft fabric – 100% polyester – allows for fluid movement that drapes the body beautifully.  Just as fresh cinched with a skinny belt.  Feeling comfortable and looking chic at the same time has never been easier.  In ivory/black or navy/stone.

And, these elegant nude pumps are begging to be worn with the jacket.

Add color to your work day with green trousers!  Green is having a major moment this season (along with red).  One way to incorporate this hot color trend into your workwear is with dress pants.  Darker greens are an optimal choice for apparel especially for business professionals.

Here are a few of our favorite work-chic pants in varying green hues – hunter, teal, kelly.  Wear with neutrals for a fail-proof outfit.  For a bolder look, go for fun printed tops such as stripes and polka dots.

In the world of fashion, bigger is often better and bolder is often best.  Why not incorporate the latest trends into your work wardrobe especially those who enjoy flashy styles?

Fashion loves extravagance and decadence, and with celebrity icons such as Lady Gaga and Rihanna constantly pushing the boat out with their unique and innovative style the pressure is on for the rest of us to be daring.  Having fun with colors, textures and unusual designs can be a lot of fun, but there are some essential dos and don’ts when you’re going for a bold look.

Firstly, colors are always important and should never be overlooked or seen as secondary.  Although you might want to make a big impression, choosing colors that don’t go together will just make you look silly.  You either want colors that clash (in a good way!) or you need to make sure that one color complements the other.  You should also be cautious when combining bold prints such as a leopard-print top with a floral skirt.  Items of print clothing should be paired with items of block color you can achieve a bold and outlandish look without looking like you got dressed in the dark!

Secondly, if you’re going to go with a daring piece of clothing then make sure you know how to wear it right.  Some of the most hideous trends of the past have come back into fashion with a vengeance – jumpsuits, for example, are back on trend but they have to be the right style and worn in the right way in order to work.  You don’t want to look like an aerobics instructor, or as if you’re about to jump out of a plane!  Do your research to see what’s in and what’s out, and see how your favorite celebrities or other style icons are wearing a piece before you attempt it yourself.

A great way to find bold and colorful clothes is to shop online, where you can browse through hundreds of different items quickly and easily. Scandinavian retailer Ellos has recently launched a UK website, www.ellos.co.uk, with many sophisticated items of clothing that perfectly utilize the latest trends.  Why not check out the dresses and skirts by Ellos which are going down a storm this season.  Ellos offers really minimalist, simplistic fashion, which work well in the workplace, as well as out.

photo credit: style.com

Wearing fur to work?  There is nothing wrong with adding a little drama to your usual workwear.  Blazers take up more than their fair share of your professional wardrobe, now it’s time to break out the fur to combat the chill in style!  Fur outerwear isn’t just for fancy outings anymore but rather consider it along the lines of your best friend.

Let’s take style ques from the Fall 2011 designer collections featuring various fur fashion to sneak into your work wardrobe.  Keep in mind that there are more reasons to prefer fake over real when it comes to fur – faux sure!

Fur collared coats or cardigans are your best bet to pull off at the office.  The clean line and knee-length silhouette creates an elegant look.

Another easy-to-wear fur topper is a fur vest.  This basic black fur vest will look great over a turtleneck & trousers.  Go for ones in a similar color tone to bring it all together.  It can be layered under a jacket for extra warmth.

If you are worried about donning fur outerwear all together, fear not – slip on this super cozy faux fur scarf to jazz up your whole outfit.  How about a chic blazer with a removable faux fur collar?

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