Birds Of Paradise // printed shorts + oversized blazer

Shorts can be dressy too! Pair your favorite printed pair with a simple top and a well-tailored, oversized blazer for a fresh take on office chic. 

It may be September, but that doesn't mean you have to cut shorts out of your wardrobe rotation just YET. After all, it's still summer until the 22nd! I love this printed pair that features a "birds of paradise" pattern. The intricate design and bright, tropical colors make them that much more luxe. 

A shorts-and-blazer look is polished and modern. It provides stylish juxtaposition between weekend/work and uptown/downtown. I also love how this oversized jacket plays with proportions by hitting right above the hemline of my shorts. 

A touch of metallic is almost always a good idea. Silver was huge this past year and, good news for my fellow lovers-of-all-things-shiny, this trend is staying strong through fall! A bit of shine truly helps elevate even the most casual of looks. 

Speaking of shine, this Kate Spade crossbody compliments my silver sandals beautifully. In a neutral tone, it's also super versatile. But of course a stripe of gold gives it an added element of sophistication and pop. 

I incorporated both cream and white into this ensemble, which to some may be considered a bit daring - especially after Labor Day. But I love the look of bright whites against more yellow tones, and with a necklace to match, my entire outfit comes full circle. 

Delicate yet statement-making, these pearl-back studs are classic go-to for me. 

I love how this look is professional but not stuffy, it's laid-back and easy yet packed with polish. And that's all thanks to this gorgeous oversized blazer. A piece like this (in any color) is a definite must-have for anyone and everyone! Cropped versions are officially out of style...at least for now ;) 

Photos by Dan Harper

[v-neck tee: Ann Taylor // blazer: Elizabeth & James (I also like this one) // shorts: Ann Taylor // sandals: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // purse: Kate Spade // necklace: Loft (I also like this one)// earrings: Ann Taylor (similar here) // watch: Kate Spade // amethyst bangle: David Yurman // cream bangle: Kate Spade // heart tag bracelet: Tiffany & Co. // lipstick: Bare Pop by Clinique] 

As summery as this look may seem - I know, I know, everyone is SO fixated on fall right now - it's actually perfect for this time of year! Because let's face it, it's still super hot outside (it was 90 degrees this past weekend in NYC). But by adding a chic jacket into your usual shorts-and-tee mix, you're putting your own autumn spin on a tried-and-true summer favorite. Pretty genius, right? 

// SHOP //