Cute Couple: Blazers and Shorts

It's difficult to imagine a modern woman’s wardrobe without a blazer.  It's worn with jeans, business trousers, straight and flared skirts, dresses- and now shorts! Tailored blazers pair up with shorts instead of trousers for a hot mix up for Spring '13.  I love this warm weather update to a classic look, but finding the right combination when it comes to pairing these uber-popular style items can be a real challenge- even for true fashionistas.  Fortunately, by following my basic style tips you can create a look that is both unique and dapper. Spy on these dapper looks for some inspiration.

For a glam approach go with leather shorts and neon blazer or a sleek black blazer, black silk shell and metallic gold shorts.

Express

H&M

Alice + Olivia

Alice + Olivia

For a more uptown chic look wear with a beige blazer, blush pink blouse and tan leather shorts.

 

Denim Short and Blazer

To match these two fabulous pieces into a single flawless outfit choose basic pieces, like denim shorts and a black blazer, that can be combined in a stylish manner.  Choose a simple t-shirt or button down to match with your shorts and a cropped or boyfriend style blazer.  Complete your look with smashing footwear. For the "glam rock" effect opt for ankle boots or stylish platforms. Or for a more Boho style choose flats or cute sandals to complete your looks.

Pleated and Cuffed Shorts and Blazer

 Spot the shorts style that best flatters your body shape and makes you feel confident. The leg-length as well as width will play a crucial role in your selection.  After finding the best design, make sure you choose a fitted t-shirt or top to even out the bulky effect of the shorts and steal some inches from your waist area.  The great fashion gurus recommend pairing this look with wedges or cute sandals for a Springy flair to your.

Mango

Mango

Mango

BCBG

Latico

High-Waist Shorts

One of the hottest and most feminine style trends this season is the blazer and high-waist shorts match. This recipe is best suited for stepping into the spotlight and accentuating your worth-admiring figure. Use your best assets, in this case your legs, to add dimension to your silhouette. Match with a cropped blazer in order to let your shorts pop out from under your cover-up.  For a balance between the ultra-feminine and figure-flattering, sandals and pumps are must have accessories for these looks .

Bluefly.com

Alice + Olivia

H&M

Jimmy Choo

Wear Shorts with a Blazer to Work? Why not?!?

Pairing shorts with blazers is a way to create stylish and polished office appropriate outfits.  These days shorts can really replace a skirt in the workplace. What's the difference between shorts and a skirt - even if they're the same length? It's that shorts are perceived as casual by nature ... something we wear only on weekends.  That perception is now changing, but choose your ensemble carefully to make sure your look isn't too casual.

I recommend heading into the office wearing knee-length shorts that are either slim and tapered or wider with a cuff, made of cotton or wool. Linen will keep you cool, but might end up wrinkled.  Pair shorts with a crisp button-down shirt and a cropped blazer. The strappy sandal is a popular accessory, too, and a chunky platform version in a neutral color will elongate the appearance of the leg. Flip-flops, however are never appropriate for the office.  Finish off your look with a neutral satchel bag large enough to carry all your essentials for the day.

Haute Hippie

Halogen

Tory Burch

DV by Dolce Vita