Warm weather is rolling in, you’re just starting to get a handle on what your company’s casual Friday policy is all about, and then you get the dreaded email that your boss is hosting a barbecue at his/her house.  And your first thought is, this sounds like a trap.

Whether it’s a get-together at your boss’s house or a company picnic, dressing for these types of extracurricular professional events during the spring and summer can be tricky.  You’ll look stuffy and out of place if you wear office attire, but you also want to dress with your boss’s presence in mind.  Before you freak out, let me give you the easiest rule of thumb: Stick with necklines and hemlines that are office appropriate, but within those bounds, have fun with summery prints, colors and fabrics.

This look is a perfect example of what I’m talking about: The dress has an office-appropriate length and neckline, but has a summer-ready picnic vibe with its gingham print and light cotton fabric.  You won’t look like an uptight freak over backyard burgers, but you also won’t feel overexposed in front of the weird man-child from bookkeeping that likes to talk nonstop about his collection of action figures.

As you may recall, this look is featured in my Spring / Summer 2016 Dress Memo that was published here last week.  If you haven’t checked it out yet, definitely hit it up!  It’s my complete guide to dressing for every possible spring and summer occasion — whether you’re in need of some guidance on dressing for a company picnic, a summer interview, a summer date night or a black-tie wedding!  Whatever the warm-weather occasion, I’ve got you covered right there with all of my tips and suggestions!

DRESS: Eliza J (40% off!!)  |  SHOES: old, similar HERE, HERE and HERE  |  BAG: Oliveve  |  WATCH: Tory Burch  |  EARRINGS: Juliet & Company  |  LIPS: Nars (Bansar)

More dresses perfect for a company picnic here:

Have a great weekend, guys!!

When in doubt, or rather, when staring down the barrel of a thoroughly uninspired case of Monday morning I-have-nothing-to-wear blues, I often default to an all black ensemble.  However, this seems to work  a bit better in the winter than it does in the spring and summer months.  When bringing an all-black look into the warmer seasons—whether we’re talking workwear or not—my trick is to pair the monochromatic outfit with a lighter and brighter accoutrement like a windowpane coat, a light colored blazer, or even a bright heel.  Today, I’m sporting this favorite windowpane coat (which you’ve seen before in this casual Friday post), a topper that has continued to be one of my favorite on and off-duty layers—especially when looking to brighten up an otherwise super simple look.

Confession: Don’t blame the coat for all the wrinkles you might be noticing.  I accidentally left it in a heap in the back of my car (insert embarrassed emoji here) and didn’t have time to steam it before wearing it again.  In reality, if you don’t live life like an absent-minded frat boy and actually hang it up like a real person between wears, you’ll find it has a beautiful drape and perfectly keeps its shape.

My mom is shaking her head so hard right now.

WINDOWPANE COAT: c/o BB Dakota (also here)  |  PENCIL SKIRT: St. John (similar HERE)  |  TOP: BOSS (also love this tank version HERE)  |  SKINNY SCARF/CHOKER: Halogen  |  SHOES: Saint Laurent (similar HERE)  |  PEARL NECKLACE: Dogeared  |  BAG: M2Malletier

Happy Monday!

Today I’m sharing some of my favorite, most versatile basics for spring and summer.  This navy and red striped tee in particular is a new score from (you guessed it) Everlane.  They call it their “heavyweight tee” which aptly describes the thicker cotton fabric. It can be tough to pull off a true t-shirt at the office, but that little extra heft to the fabric helps hold a beautiful shape, giving a crisper and more substantial work-worthy look.  At the same time, I plan on wearing this tee a ton with white jean shorts and skirts (need this one and this one!) all summer long.

Although these white silk pants are a pair I bought on sale two years ago, their high-waisted silhouette and tapered leg have stood the test of time.  They’re still one of my most heavily worn items during the warmer months, and I highly recommend checking out the pairs I’ve linked to below if you don’t have something similar in your closet.  They’re a really refreshing spring and summer alternative to black pants at the office, and I’ve also worn them a ton casually with the cuff rolled up and sandals to dinner, brunch… you name it.

 SHIRT: c/o Everlane  |  PANTS: old, similar HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE  |  SHOES: old, similar HERE, HERE, and HERE  |  BELT: old, similar HERE  |  BAG: 3.1 Phillip Lim (similar HERE and HERE)  |  NECKLACE: Melinda Maria  |  EARRINGS: Mejuri  |  SUNGLASSES: Ray-Ban (25% off!)  |  LIPS: Buxom (San Francisco)

Happy Wednesday!

In the same way that everyone has their own versions of “comfort food,” I’d classify this look as one of my “comfort outfits.”  A classic windowpane blouse and pleated midi skirt—both pieces that I’ve had for years that just never go out of style and always make me feel ready to face the work day.  Lots of similar options below if you’re looking for some comparable pieces that will stand the test of time.

 WINDOWPANE BLOUSE: old, similar HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE  |  PLEATED SKIRT: old, similar HERE, HERE and HERE)  |  SHOES: Jimmy Choo (similar HERE)  |  BAG: Dolce & Gabbana  |  NECKLACE: Dogeared  |  EARRINGS: Juliet & Company  |  LIPS: Buxom (San Francisco)

For my fellow denim devotees, I thought I’d share one of my favorite new off-duty spring staples—this white denim dress.  It also comes in suede and blue jean versions, which have me very tempted. Whatever the color, the piece is super comfy and incredibly versatile for spring and summer.

Hope you’re having a great weekend!

 DRESS: Current/Elliot (also love the suede version HERE and blue jean version HERE)  |  JACKET: c/o Bernardo (similar HERE and HERE)  |  SHOES: Jeffrey Campbell (similar HERE)  |  BAG: c/o Moyi Moyi (sold out, similar HERE)  |  WATCH: Daniel Wellington  (25% off!)  |  CHOKER: Fallon (similar HERE and HERE)  |  LIPS: Nars (Bansar)

Every spring I keep my eyes peeled for that super comfy, go-everywhere dress, and (slow clap) I think this might just be the one.

It’s that dress that you can wear to brunch, wear to church, wear to dinner, wear to a barbecue, wear to… errywhere.  There’s something about sleeved, knee-length dresses with a little extra oomph (read: lace and tassel action) that just give them versatility superpowers.  Climb aboard.

As an aside, I keep getting tons of requests to do some hair posts, and wanted to let you know that I’m listening!  I’m definitely going to come up with a post or two with details on some of my favorite products and styles.  For this middle-part straight look, I used this straightener which I absolutely love.  It’s also compact enough to easily travel with, so is always my go-to.

DRESS: Trina Turk  |  SHOES: Loeffler Randall  |  BAG: Dolce & Gabbana  |  LIP: Buxom (Brooklyn)

Whether you’re speaking at a conference or making a big presentation at the office, you need a dress in your arsenal with a little extra oomph for those workdays where you want to stand out from the crowd.

As you may recall, I featured this dress in the Spring / Summer 2016 Dress Memo as my favorite dress for business presentations.  With capped sleeves and a classic sheath silhouette, it’s perfect for most conservative professional environments (easy to add a black suit jacket if need-be), yet elevated enough to stand-out from your everyday work style.

As discussed in my recent post on what to wear to a client meeting, the best way to up the ante when it comes to conservative workwear is to choose a classic silhouette (sticking with longer hemlines and higher necklines) while having fun with color and print within those bounds.  The result can be striking and anything but “blah workwear.”

DRESS: The Limited (30% off!)  |  SHOES: Jimmy Choo (similar HERE)  |  BAG: Kate Spade New York  |  NECKLACE: Melinda Maria  |  WATCH: Daniel Wellington  |  EARRINGS: Mejuri  |  LIPS: Buxom (San Francisco)

This beauty I’m wearing today comes in petite and tall options, is shockingly well-made, and is inexplicably under $100 (WHAAA?!).  I’ve also rounded up many more of my favorite dresses perfect for work presentations below!

Today is my last day in NYC and then it’s back on a plane to SF this evening.  I’ll be sharing several looks from my trip in the days to come, but until then, here are some recent off-duty looks shared recently on instagram! (@maryorton)

DRESS: Madewell  |  SHOES: old, similar HERE  |  BAG: Dolce&Gabbana  |  NECKLACE: Gorjana  |  EARRINGS: Juliet & Company  |  SUNGLASSES: Steven Alan  |  LIPS: Nars (Bansar)

CULOTTES: c/o White House Black Market  |  SHIRT: old, similar HERE  |  CAMI: BP.  |  BOOTIES: Jeffery Campbell  |  BAG: c/o Moyi Moyi (sold out, similar HERE)  |  NECKLACE: Melinda Maria  |  BRACELET: Monica Vinader  |  SUNGLASSES: Steven Alan  |  LIPS: Nars (Bansar)

SWIMSUIT: J. Crew (more HERE)  |  HAT: Rag & Bone  |  BEACH TOWEL: c/o The Beach People (also this blue one)

DRESS: J. Crew |  SNEAKERS: Adidas  |  BAG: c/o Moyi Moyi (sold out, similar HERE)  |  GLASSES: Made Eyewear  |  LIPS: Nars (Mexican Rose)

LEGGINGS: Adidas  |  TSHIRT: Pleione  |  SWEATSHIRT: Adidas (similar HERE and HERE)  |  SNEAKERS: Nike  |  BAG: c/o Moyi Moyi (sold out, similar HERE)

DRESS: c/o Who What Wear  |  BAG: Oliveve  |  SHOES: Jeffery Campbell  |  BRACELET: Monica Vinader  |  NECKLACE: Melinda Maria  |  LIPS: Buxom (San Francisco)

LEGGINGS: DKNY  |  TEE: old, similar HERE  |  JACKET:  similar HERE  |  SNEAKERS: Nike  |  NECKLACE: Melinda Maria  |  SUNGLASSES: Wonderland

HEELS: SJP Collection  |  JEANS: AG

JUMPSUIT: Capulet  |  BELT: B-low The Belt  |  CHOKER: Fallon (similar HERE and HERE)  |  BRACELET: old, similar HERE  |  LIPS: Buxom (Brooklyn)

JACKET: Adidas  |  JEANS: Frame (similar HERE)  |  SHIRT: J. Crew  |  BAG: c/o Moyi Moyi (sold out, similar HERE)

TOP: Free People (also HERE, similar HERE)  |  JEANS: Levi  |  BAG: Schoneberg  |  NECK SCARF: Donni Charm  |  SHOES: old, similar HERE  |  EARRINGS: Juliet & Company  |  SUNGLASSES: Steven Alan  |  LIPS: Nars (Bansar)

Shot by Alexander Scott Harris

HERRINGBONE DRESS: J. Crew (30% off and available in petite and tall!)  |  SHIRT: Brooks Brothers  |  SHOES: SJP Collection  |  BAG: M2Malletier  |  LIP: Buxom (Brooklyn)

Another look from last week in New York taken outside my new favorite NYC home away from home—the Nomo Soho Hotel.  In addition to incredibly beautiful rooms, uncommonly friendly staff, and a room service menu that just won’t quit, they have this magical garden of eden-esque entrance (as depicted above) which served as the perfect backdrop for the feminine black and navy combo I wore to meetings last Wednesday.  With an equally-picturesque adjacent outdoor seating area and 70 degree sunny weather, it was tough to get actual work done (oh yeah… the purpose of my trip…) and an even tougher place to leave.

Shot by Alexander Scott Harris

SKIRT: Derek Lam 10 Crosby  |  TOP: Gibson (under $50!)  |  SHOES: SJP Collection (also HERE and HERE)  |  BAG: M2Malletier  |  NECKLACE: Melinda Maria  |  EARRINGS: c/o Mejuri (similar HERE and HERE)  |  BARRETTE: Mrs. President & Co.  |  LIPS: Buxom (San Francisco)

As an eternal fan of midi skirts, pencil skirts, and pinstripes, I always find a new take on these classics to be so refreshing.  The button detail and asymmetrical wrap front makes for a super modern spin on the midi-length pencil skirt, and the slit up the front adds just the right edge without coming up too high for the office.  An altogether winning look for a packed day of meetings last week in NYC.

Shot by Alexander Scott Harris

 SKIRT: Topshop  |  SHIRT: Brooks Brothers  |  SHOES: Jimmy Choo (similar HERE and HERE)  |  BAG: 3.1 Phillip Lim (similar HERE and HERE)  |  SUNGLASSES: Wonderland  |  LIP: Buxom (Brooklyn)

As discussed in my recent posts about what to wear to a client meeting and what to wear to a business presentation, one of the keys to having fun with business formal or conservative workwear is to look for pieces that have a classic work-appropriate cut (like a classic sheath dress) and then have fun with color, print and texture within the bounds of that silhouette.  Not only does this approach allow you to infuse your work wardrobe with a little extra sartorial oomph beyond the standard blacks, greys, and navy blues, but it actually gives you way more bang for your buck.  I mean, that grey sheath dress hanging in your closet may be a great workwear staple (no shade! love me some grey staples!), but I bet it’s not getting a ton of play outside the office.

Today, I’m featuring three ways to wear one of my favorite spins on the classic sheath dress which will take you from desk to date night to Sunday brunch.  If you love this textured tweed beauty and all its fringey-delicious detail as much as I do but the orange hue is too bold for you or your workplace—no sweat!  It also comes in ivory, sky blue and black and oh by the way, it’s a casual 30% off today and available in petite and tall options as well.  Soooooo, happy hump day y’all!

Click directly on the individual images above for product details or see the full list at the bottom of this post.

More sheath dresses that I love:

PRODUCT DETAILS:

MONDAY MORNING OUTFIT:

Dress  |  Blazer  |  Heels  |  Bag  |  Watch  |  Bracelet  |  Earrings  |  Notebook

THURSDAY DATE NIGHT:

Dress  |  Heels  |  Clutch  |  Bracelet  |  Earrings  |  Lipstick  |  Curling Iron

SUNDAY BRUNCH:

Dress  |  Jean Jacket  |  Sneakers  |  Bag  |  Sunglasses  |  Choker  |  Earrings  |  Phone Case

Today, tomorrow and Monday I’ll be showcasing three spring looks with longtime favorite brand Boden!  The first look today features their blush cropped pants with this super cool black side stripe.  There are few things I love more than fusing the trendy with the classic, and by picking up on today’s sportswear themes with the athletic-inspired side stripe while maintaining a classic, versatile silhouette—well, they pretty much nailed it.

I kept the rest of the look clean pairing simple black and white pieces, with the exception of these great lace-up pointed-toe flats.  If you remember my recent post on how to wear lace-up flats three ways, you already know I’m a big fan of the lace-up trend.  However, until today’s look, I really never pictured them going with tapered ankle pants before. But when I was unable to find the shoes I intended to wear in the dark and dangerous abyss that is my closet, I tried these on in an act of I’m-so-late-I’m-going-to-die desperation.  And, very similar to other life-changing inventions that were created by mistake like the discovery of penicillin and chocolate chip cookies, the accidental combination was a match made in style heaven.

For the working girl, the go-with-everything black blazer is an office staple.  However, similar to the athletic spin on these classic springy-hued pants, I’m always excited to find a refreshing take on the classic blazer. With an elevated tweed texture, a cropped silhouette, and on trend tie-neck details, you’ve got another perfect fusion of classic and modern that makes for a refreshing workwear go-to.

True to Boden’s colorful form, all of these pieces come in multiple colors, so check out all of their brightly hued options via the links below!

PANTS: c/o Boden  |  SHIRT: c/o Boden  |  JACKET: c/o Boden  |  BAG: c/o Boden  |  FLATS: c/o Boden  |  BRACELET: Monica Vinader  |  EARRINGS: Mejuri (similar HERE and HERE)  |  SUNGLASSES: Wonderland  |  LIPS: Nars (Bansar)

This post was produced in collaboration with Boden.

Today’s the second look in the three-part spring series I’m doing with my friends over at Boden!  Nothing feels more like springtime than bright colors and a little mixed print action, and this look definitely checks all of those boxes.

As you may have guessed from this post featuring three different ways to style the classic striped tee, I wear these suckers all year round like CRAZY.  Because of this, my wardrobe was in desperate need of a fresh version, and this striped beauty from Boden may have just nudged my previous favorite out of the first place position in the lineup of striped tees gracing my closet.  With the perfect boatneck that’s reinforced with grosgrain ribbon so it won’t stretch out after one wash, this classic tee has that ideal not too heavy, but not too lightweight fabric that can go from casual Friday at the office to weekend without a hiccup.

As for the skirt, I’m generally a sucker for anything periwinkle or navy blue, so this print naturally had me frothing at the mouth.  It also comes in three other swoon-worthy prints, as well as petite and tall options (like most of Boden’s clothing) which is a total game changer for those of us with #tallgirlproblems.  I also have to say that the a-line silhouette of this beauty is a refreshing alternative to the typical pencil skirt cut which dominates my arsenal of office-ready skirts.

Mmmmk are we ready to talk about the flats?  I mean… scalloped edges?  pointed toe?  six perfect color options?  I would have been willing to suffer through unreasonable levels of pain just to wear these cuties, but it just so happens that they were SUPER comfortable right off the bat.  What else can I say?  They’re not leaving my feet.

Stay tuned for the third look on Monday as well as my three life-saving styling tricks for transitional dressing this spring and summer.  In the meantime, have a great weekend!

P.S. Sign up here for The Newsette—an amazing daily source of style and inspiration delivered right to your inbox—where I’m going to be sharing my morning routine in Monday morning’s issue!

SKIRT: c/o Boden  |  SHIRT: c/o Boden  |  SWEATER: c/o Boden  |  FLATS: c/o Boden  |  BAG: c/o Boden  |  NECKLACE: Melinda Maria  |  BRACELET: Monica Vinader  |  EARRINGS: Mejuri (similar HERE and HERE)  |  LIPS: Nars (Bansar)

This post was produced in collaboration with Boden.

The final look in my trifecta of spring Boden outfits features my favorite spring layering trick—the trusty sleeveless dress-blouse layering combo.  Today I’m sharing this and all of my life-saving transitional weather tips for the working girl over on Boden’s Blog, so check it out here!

DRESS: c/o Boden (also available in other prints!)  |  BLOUSE: c/o Boden  |  LACE-UP SANDALS: c/o Boden  |  EARRINGS: Rebecca Minkoff  |  BRACELET: Monica Vinader  |  LIP: Nars (Bansar)

This post was produced in collaboration with Boden.

Many fashion trends seem to come and go at lightning speeds, which can be particularly hard on the ol’ wallet.  How can you tell what’s here to stay and what’s going to go in the blink of an eye?  I mean, after the Met Ball on Monday night… do I need to spend my rent money on a Givenchy beadazzled nude latex evening gown?  I mean, is it a flash in the Beyoncé pan, or a soon-to-be stalwart of the style-informed’s wardrobe?  So much sleep lost over this one.

If you’ve been following Memorandum for a while, you know that I’m all about combining timeless classics with current trends.  In many cases, however, there’s no major investment required—just some styling tricks and updated accessories to modernize your look.

Exhibit A: This navy and white ensemble.  Most of the pieces that I’m wearing in today’s post are classic items that I’ve had for years.  This duster coat is new, but with a classic cut and timeless pinstripes, I know it will be a versatile topper that I wear for years to come.  Everything else?  Classic, versatile staples in my closet that just needed to be styled and accessorized in the right way to take on an updated, urban vibe.

By tucking the navy shell into my high-waisted white silk pants, then simply adding a couple chokers and a stand-out belt, the overall effect of today’s look is much more of-the-moment than most of the individual pieces might suggest.

Work-appropriate, in vogue, and wallet-friendly?  Sign me up.  And, if that’s not enough to make for a good Wednesday, check out the bonkers sale happening right now at Shopbop.  AGH!  So much gooooood.  I’ve included my top picks in the flipbook widget at the bottom of this post for your perusing pleasure…

 COAT: Topshop  |  PANTS: Nanette Lepore (old, similar HERE and HERE)  |  TANK: J. Crew (old, similar HERE and HERE)  |  SHOES: Jimmy Choo (similar HERE)  |  BAG: M2Malletier  |  LEATHER CHOKER: Urban Outfitters (also love this one)  |  GOLD CHOKER: old, similar HERE and HERE  |  BELT: old, similar HERE  |  LIP: Buxom (Brooklyn)

My Shopbop lust list:

For the working girl with an arsenal of pencil skirts, the flounce hem of this skirt offers another refreshing alternative to the office classic.  In addition to the great silhouette, I’m obsessed with the exposed black accent zipper down the side which for me, adds just a touch of urban edge to an otherwise über-feminine skirt.

I wore the polka dot blouse tucked in for a classic workday look, but the blouse actually has an amazing cropped silhouette with a split hem, so I look forward to wearing it untucked again in the near future.

SKIRT: Ellen Tracy  |  BLOUSE: Topshop  |  HEELS: SJP Collection (similar HERE, HERE and HERE)  |  BAG: Dolce & Gabbana  |  EARRINGS: old, similar HERE and HERE  |  SUNGLASSES: Wonderland (similar HERE and HERE)  |  LIPS: Nars (Bettina)

 This post was produced in collaboration with Nordstrom.

Gingham and I are/were in couples therapy.

I get that it’s everyone’s favorite summer print, blah, blah, blah.  But, it typically makes me feel like a twee picnic blanket, so I choose to neglect it… hence the rift between us.  And yet, we still have an unspoken, intangible, undeniable connection, thus the need for a little How to Lose A Guy in Ten Days-style couples therapy.

Now, I know what you’re wondering.  Do we need to go to Staten Island for the weekend?  Now THAT is a positive idea, Ben! 

So, we went to Staten Island for the weekend.

Well, kind of.  Our version of going to Staten Island was my perusing of Timo Weiland’s DIE. NO. MITE. capsule collection for Banana Republic during which one look at these gingham coordinates had me buckling at the knees and drooling on myself.  Definitively less sexy than the Kate Hudson-Matthew McConaughey bathroom scene, but no less real.  It was the first time in months (years?) that a gingham print didn’t make me want to waddle around asking when it was time to change for tee-ball practice.  I mean, the modern silhouettes?  The navy fringe detail?!  En fuego.

I’ve waxed on about the amazing versatility of coordinating twin sets in the past, and this duo is no exception.  I love the coordinates worn together for a trendy-yet-work-appropriate look, but am also amped about the possibilities of styling each piece separately as well.  The skirt alone with any other white or navy top is a no-brainer.  And this crop top?  Again, pair it with navy, white, denim, white denim… endless options!  Outside of the office, I’m especially itching to throw on some high-waisted white denim shorts (obsessed with these and these!) with this gingham crop top for a perfect little summer get-up.

GINGHAM CROP TOP:  Timo Weiland for Banana Republic  |  GINGHAM PENCIL SKIRT: Timo Weiland for Banana Republic (also love this linen version)  |  BAG: Phillip Lim  |  SHOES: Jimmy Choo  |  LIP: Neutrogena

I wore this black and white ensemble last Friday for a morning full of work meetings and an afternoon escape to see the Oscar de la Renta exhibit at the De Young museum here in San Francisco.  This classic knit fit and flare dress is as comfy as it is cute, and was the perfect frock for running around the city all day.  If you live in San Francisco or are visiting before May 30th, you have to have to have to check out this exhibit.  I’m going back at least once more before it closes… might just move in for the remaining three weeks, actually.

 DRESS: c/o Boden (also love the blue version!!)  |  JACKET: c/o Boden  |  FLATS: c/o Boden (available in more colors!)  |  BAG: M2Malletier  |  NECKLACE: Melinda Maria  |  EARRINGS: c/o Mejuri (similar HERE and HERE)  |  SUNGLASSES: Wonderland  |  LIPS: Buxom (Brooklyn)

If your place of employment has creative and/or casual vibes, you gotta get yoself some of these comfy track pants.  Because you can.  And also because they look awesome.

All I’m saying is that whoever invented the athleisure trend and started making socially acceptable, work-appropriate gym clothes deserves a Nobel prize.  As a fashion-conscious female, with a proper reverence for burrito-friendly elastic waistbands, I feel it’s my duty to support the cause.

Also, even though the look confuses the hell out of my husband, I’m obsessed with the combination of traditionally casual and dressy elements—the secret to making “sportswear” pieces work outside of the gym.  It’s all about elevated accessories—my classic black pumps, statement necklace, and leather jacket—that make your overall appearance seem less fieldhouse and more front office.

PANTS: Topshop (similar HERE and HERE)  |  SHIRT: c/o Everlane  |  JACKET: old, similar HERE and HERE  |  NECKLACE: BaubleBar (similar HERE and HERE)  |  HEELS: Saint Laurent (similar HERE)  |  BAG: c/o Moyi Moyi (very similar HERE)  |  SUNGLASSES: Ray-Ban  |  LIPS: Neutrogena