Jenna Lyons was recently quoted as saying there’s nothing she despises more than uniform dressing. I’m sorry, but I’m going to have to politely disagree with Ms. Lyons on this one, {who in fact, I would also assert, rocks a pretty uniform style}.

No one likes to labor over the “what should I wear” decision and having a bit of a “uniform” can come in rather handy! Thankfully, there’s a no-brainer option that’ll keep you looking tres chic as we round the corner toward summer – the modern suit. I’m currently loving Jenni Kayne’s interpretation.

Gone are the days of stuffy suiting. Jenni Kayne’s version feels fun and flirty rather than drab. The tomboy tailoring is flattering, the skirts and shorts options are fresh and the cropped pant lets you play with virtually any shoe option. You could choose a brogue or an ultra high sandal. The poppy color palette also gives a nice nod to the {never-ending!} neon trend.

The best thing about buying a matched suit is that you don’t have to keep the pieces together! You’ve now added a top and bottom that you can mix and match with everything else in your closet, from a tee and trainers on the weekend, to a dress and a great pump for another work wear ensemble. You’ve suddenly grown your wardrobe exponentially! You gotta love that.

Here’s how you can get your money’s worth out of a matched suit.

shop look 1: flats // bracelet // blouse // bag // scarf

A navy suit pant is the perfect foundation for a day of running errands and grabbing lunch with a client. With a stellar denim loafer and a chic grey tote, you’ll look polished, but not over-dressed.

shop look 2: heels // top // skirt // bag // bracelet // belt

Keep your blazer current by combining it with a white skirt, a print top and luxe black accessories. The combo is the perfect way to add a little fun to a board room appropriate look.

shop look 3: sandals // top // jacket // bracelet // bag

Take your suit pants on the town for the evening with a luxe satin bomber jacket and this season’s update to the silk blouse – a sleeveless version! A sweet heel and lady-like purse and you’re totally date-ready.

What do you think? Have we convinced you that suits are officially a wardrobe must-have even if you never set foot into an office?!

all images via Jenni Kayne

There are a handful of basics that every woman should have in her wardrobe. The pencil skirt is definitely high up there. The universally flattering piece is incredibly versatile. Don’t believe me? Well I’ve got proof!

The lovely ladies behind The Refined Woman, a fabulous personal style blog co-created by Apartment 34′s own resident photographer Emily Scott, asked if I’d join six other blogger-extraordinaires to share our spin on the pencil skirt. I immediately jumped at the chance. I mean, I can never turn down a good styling challenge. Plus, I was dying to see how everyone would approach the task!

I definitely think there’s something for everyone in the options below. They’re all SO different!

I love how every lady put her personal spin on the classic shape. From the variety of color palettes and materials {I spy lace, cotton and leather in there} to accessories that range from statement necklaces to pumps, belts, cardigans and hats, these ladies are proof positive that the pencil skirt is going to work overtime for you this season!

As for me, I was going for a more Monday Work Wear appropriate ensemble with my moody-blues look. My navy and black pencil skirt cut a sleek, architectural line that let me play with bigger proportions on top.

A big fan of layers, I tossed my favorite denim shirt on under the newest addition to my spring wardrobe – a kimono sleeved silk blouse in chambray blue. I love the pop of detail a collared shirt gives. I added my metallic gold bomber over my shoulders to break up the monotone color palette and feel a little more spring-like.

shop:  top // clutch // necklace // wedges // bomber jacket //  illesteva sunnies // skirt

What do you think? Do you have a favorite take on the pencil skirt style? Are you ready to rock yours all season long? After seeing all these great options I can’t wait to see how many different ways I can figure out how to wear mine.

Be sure to check back next month when this group will tackle our next assignment: styling the classic oxford shirt!

original photography for apartment 34 by chris perez

Even though the temperatures are warming, that doesn’t mean you have to compromise sophisticated style. You can still look cool while staying cool! The Spring 2013 collection from Adam Lippes is a prime example.

The beyond-chic combinations of separates; from skirts to trousers to jackets, is uniform dressing at its best. One designer; one entire wardrobe. Done and done! It doesn’t get better, or easier, than these beautifully chic work wear looks.

There are three things I love about Adam’s collection.

The first is the simple silhouettes. Close to the body, no bells and whistles required. These are classic pieces at their best.

The second is the pop of color with each shoe. It’s the perfect way to give a nod to the season’s trends without over-investing in trendy pieces. Those baby-blue suede pumps? Swoon!

Finally, I love the below the knee lengths of all of Adam’s ensembles. Hems that hit from just below to the knee to the ankle no longer feel dowdy. Instead they feel fresh, fashion-forward and even daring! A mini is so yesterday.

shop: skirt // sunglasses // sweater // clutch // earrings // nail polish // heels 

What do you think? Do classic styles stand the test of time or do they just feel boring to you?

all images via Adam Lippes