Business Casual Outfit Ideas + Mostly LOFT & Ann Taylor Reviews

Click here to view the clip from my try-on

Happy Monday! I finally received my most recent LOFT order and aside from one top still on the way I was excited to share these new arrivals with you. I also have some a few Ann Taylor items I shared at the bottom of the post.

SALE ALERTS

In terms of upcoming sales, I received a mailer that Ann Taylor‘s Friends of Ann sale for 40% off your purchase starts on Wednesday with the Cardmember preview on 3/6 and then open to everyone on Thursday 3/7. Usually this sale coincides with LOFT’s store wide sale as well. Refer to this page for last year’s LOFT sales in March which are usually a good guide line for this month’s sales.

Currently they’re on the pants and jeans sale – get 50% off full-price pants and jeans (shop PLUS styles here) and save an extra 50% off sale styles at LOFT. Since no code is needed you can also apply code INSIDER249 for an extra $25 off your full-price promotional purchase of $100+ (excludes Lou & Grey and sale styles).

Update 3/5: I just noticed a new section for sneak previews on LOFT’s website!

Here are some items I’m hoping to see in stores:

OUTFIT IDEAS & REVIEWS

For size reference I’m 5′ 2.5″ and 108-110 pounds. I’m usually size XS petite in tops and 0/25 petite in pants and jeans. If you’re new to my blog I typically share the link to a short video clip below each image (the same video clips I share in my Instagram stories swipe ups during sales). My Flickr will not let me upload my video clips due to their database migration to AWS so I’m trying a new thing by uploading them to my Amazon Drive this week. My Pinterest is also up to date if you prefer a more visual catalog of my reviews. You can also check out my other reviews organized by retailer here.

OUTFIT DETAILS: J.Crew Sophie open-front sweater blazer, size XXS regular | LOFT Crossover Yoke Shirt, size XXS regular | Ann Taylor Curvy Frayed Hem Performance Stretch Skinny Jeans in ecru, size 00P (review here) | c/o Ann Taylor Kerry Suede Slingback Pumps (true to size, review here)

LOFT Crossover Yoke Shirt, size XXS regular | c/o Ann Taylor Shreya Scalloped Suede Flats (true to size, review here) | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

The leopard on this blouse is similar to an old favorite dress of mine from 2013 as seen here except the colors are inverted. I took size XXS regular which is my usual size when I want some extra length. The blouse runs true to size. Update 3/9: Thanks to Ly for informing me that this blouse is now available in petites, and PLUS sizes!

LOFT Blossom Puff Shoulder Blouse, size XSP | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

I love this blossom puff shoulder blouse and I need to get it for my mom too but the size she needs (size L) was sold out last week. Hopefully I’ll have better luck soon. I took my usual size XSP.

OUTFIT DETAILS: LOFT Blossom Puff Shoulder Blouse, size XSP | Ann Taylor Curvy Frayed Hem Performance Stretch Skinny Jeans in ecru, size 00P (review here) | Steven by Steve Madden Abilee Pump (true to size, very similar linked here)

Click here to view the clip from my try-on

I finally snagged this Sophie open-front sweater blazer which I had ordered in 4 colors when it was on promotion for $75 (thanks to Sarah for the heads up). I ordered it in the ivory, grey, black and camel colors but I only kept the black and camel colors. See the above outfit paired with the black color of the sweater blazer here. If you own the sweater blazer does it wash well or do you have to dry clean it for the best results? I know this version is a lot pricier than the popular J.Crew Factory sweater blazer but when I tried that one on the sleeves were too long and snug in my usual size XXS regular.

OUTFIT DETAILS: J.Crew Sophie open-front sweater blazer, size XXS regular | LOFT Lace Puff Sleeve Button Back Top, size XXS regular | Ann Taylor Curvy Frayed Hem Performance Stretch Skinny Jeans in ecru, size 00P (review here) | Steven by Steve Madden Abilee Pump (true to size, very similar linked here)

OUTFIT DETAILS: c/o Ann Taylor Bi-Stretch Modern Blazer, size 2P | LOFT Lace Puff Sleeve Button Back Top, size XXS regular | Ann Taylor Curvy Frayed Hem Performance Stretch Skinny Jeans in ecru, size 00P (review here) | c/o Ann Taylor Kerry Suede Slingback Pumps (true to size, review here) | Exact bag and similar bag | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

OUTFIT DETAILS: LOFT Lace Puff Sleeve Button Back Top, size XXS regular | Ann Taylor Curvy Frayed Hem Performance Stretch Skinny Jeans in ecru, size 00P (review here) | Banana Republic Gingko Leaf Necklace – past season favorite | c/o Ann Taylor Kerry Suede Slingback Pumps (true to size, review here) | Click here and here to view the clips from my try-on

I wasn’t sure about the puff sleeves on this lace blouse but it’s not too puffy and it also really looks cute under cardigans and blazers. I like the little polka dots on the floral lace which adds interest. I love it paired with the ecru jeans (review here) for a softer look. The blouse runs true to size but I may order size XSP to see if the length is better since XXS regular sticks out from under the black blazer I paired it with. Size XXS is 24.5″ total length but I have a shorter torso since I’m petite and 5’2.5″. Update 3/12: I prefer size XSP for slightly shorter length.

OUTFIT DETAILS: J.Crew Sophie open-front sweater blazer, size XXS regular | LOFT Scalloped Smocked Mixed Media Shell, size XXS regular | Ann Taylor Curvy Frayed Hem Performance Stretch Skinny Jeans in ecru, size 00P (review here) | Steven by Steve Madden Abilee Pump (true to size, very similar linked here)

Click here to view the clip from my try-on

LOFT Scalloped Smocked Mixed Media Shell, size XXS regular | Click here and here to view the clips from my try-on

I love this scalloped top and I’m trying on my usual size XXS regular but since the length is longer (24″) I’m still deciding if I should also order it in petites. The top fits looser so you may want to size down for a closer fit. Update 3/22: I reviewed size XSP here.

OUTFIT DETAILS: LOFT Striped Jersey Open Cardigan, size XXS regular | Artizia Everly Camisole, size XXS regular (similar here and here) | c/o Ann Taylor Shreya Scalloped Suede Flats (true to size, review here) | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

This striped cardigan is lightweight and perfect for the spring and summer since it has a nautical aesthetic with the blue and white micro stripes. I found that it runs true to size.

LOFT Striped Drawstring Cowl Neck Top, size XXS regular | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

This cowl neck top is really soft and comfy making it perfect for casual weekend outfits or lounging around at home. It reminds me of something from their Lou & Grey signaturesoft line. The longer length (size XXS regular measures 24.5″ total length) is perfect to wear with leggings too since it should cover your front and backside.

LOFT Striped Mixed Media Sweatshirt, size XXS regular | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

I had high hopes for this peplum top but size XXS regular is a bit too loose and long on me. Size XXS regular measures 36″ bust and 25.75″ total length.

LEFT to RIGHT: Floral Puff Sleeve Swing Dress | Dotted Wrap Skirt Flutter Dress | Flower Branch Flare Shirtdress

LOFT Flower Branch Flare Shirtdress, size 0P | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

I was excited to find the flower branch dress in store. I found that it fits true to size but slightly shorter since it falls a few inches above my knees. The dress is unlined so I was able to see a slight outline of my legs in the mirror.

The flower branch print is available as a dress, skirt and top.

LOFT Dotted Wrap Skirt Flutter Dress, size 0P | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

I thought the faux wrap tie detail was a really cute detail and the dress runs true to size but the length is very short in my usual size. Perhaps I should try 00 regular for a slightly longer overall length. The dress is 100% rayon so if you notice any shrinking in the length after laundering and line drying then I recommend steaming out the dress from top to bottom. The hot steam relaxes the fibers and allows you to stretch the dress close to it’s original length.

LOFT Floral Puff Sleeve Swing Dress, size XXSP  | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

In person this dark floral print is very cute and I had grabbed the dress to try on after I couldn’t find the top that’s still coming in the mail. Size XXSP fits like my usual size XSP for a swingy fit. Personally I wasn’t a fan of the puff detail on the sleeves.

OUTFIT DETAILS: c/o Ann Taylor Fringe Tweed Peplum Jacket, size 00P (featured here) | Ann Taylor Factory Lace Trim Cami, size XS regular (review here) | Ann Taylor Curvy Frayed Hem Performance Stretch Skinny Jeans in ecru, size 00P (review here) | Steven by Steve Madden Abilee Pump (true to size, very similar linked here) | Emini House Crossbody Bag in khaki (review here) | Click here to view a clip of the outfit on me

I love this tweed jacket and I’m looking forward to spring so that I can wear it out. It was recently featured here in my sponsored post with Ann Taylor.

OUTFIT DETAILS: c/o Ann Taylor Polka Dot Camp Shirt, size XXSP | Ann Taylor Factory Button Trim Pocket Skirt, size 0P | Steven by Steve Madden Abilee Pump (true to size, very similar linked here) | Click here and here to view the clips from my try-on

I love this polka dot camp shirt and I took my smaller size since the top is long and flowy. I finally received this skirt that I had ordered on sale when they were offering free shipping. It’s very stretchy and flattering. Size 0P has a 27″ waist and it’s 18.75″ total length.

Ann Taylor Polka Dot Tie Waist Shell, size 00P | Ann Taylor Kerry Leather Slingback Pumps (true to size) | Click here to view the clip from my try on

This polka dot top was on my wish list and I ordered it in the black and white print (above) and the off white version (below) to try. I prefer the black and white print since it’s more flattering while the off white color is slightly sheer despite being lightly lined underneath. Size 00P fits like my usual size 0P and measures 33″ at the chest, 28″ at the start of the waist where it nips in and 23.5″ total length.

I was also curious about the Kerry Leather Slingback Pumps since I love the suede version I have in black. They run true to size but I’m still undecided since I ordered more shoes to try that are hopefully on their way via ShopRunner.

Ann Taylor Clip Dot Tie Waist Shell, size 00P | Click here to view the clip from my try on

Ann Taylor Diagonal Striped Tee, size MP | Click here to view the clip from my try on

I originally tried on this tee in M regular and I ordered M petite (I’m usually size XSP or XXS regular) since the tee fits very snug especially through the sleeves. The sleeves are still uncomfortably snug on my arms in MP so I’ll sadly have to return it although the body was a comfortable fit. Size MP has a 30″ waist where the tee nips in, the upper arm circumference is 10″ but my forearms are 8.5″ while the end of the 3/4  sleeves are 7″ which explains why the sleeves are very snug when I bend my elbows.

Ann Taylor Colorblock Plaid Coatigan, size XXSP | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

I ordered this coatigan when it was an extra 70% off sale styles but size XXSP was a bit too close fitting on me so I didn’t like how it draped against my sides. Since it’s still fully stocked I’ll take my chances to catch it on super sale and in my usual size XSP.

Ann Taylor Textured Tweed Moto Jacket | Ann Taylor Camp Shirt | Ann Taylor Ribbon Necklace | Ann Taylor Curvy Frayed Hem Performance Stretch Skinny Jeans in ecru

I saw this all white look in store and I can’t wait to try this look since I already have the blouse and jeans.

Ann Taylor Textured Tweed Moto Jacket, size 00P | c/o Ann Taylor Polka Dot Camp Shirt, size XXSP | Hunter Refined Slim Fit Back Strap Rain Boots (true to size, review here) | Click here to view the clip from my try-on

This new tweed moto jacket is off white and I found that it fits just like the pink version from last year (review here). I fit size 00P which fits like my usual size 0P.

OUTFIT DETAILS: J.Crew Sophie open-front sweater blazer, size XXS regular | c/o Ann Taylor Polka Dot Camp Shirt, size XXSP

Here is what I wore over the weekend once I was done shooting a look for anupcoming post with Ann Taylor. This polka dot shirt seriously makes me so happy.

Kate Spade Margaux Large Satchel

I was considering the medium size of this bag but I also tried on the large size above and below. Apologies I have no pictures of the medium size but it was 30% off this past weekend at Kate Spade but all I ended up ordering was this Margaux zip cardholder. The Margaux satchels were excluded from the online sale but when I went in store they said that it was included in the sale in stores only. I’ll have to keep this in mind for next time. I wasn’t a huge fan of the crossbody strap that it came with since it was thicker and looked a bit longer than I preferred. I haven’t bought a Kate Spade bag in years but I like the minimalist design of this bag and how lightweight it is.

Herschel Supply Co. x Hello Kitty Mini Nova Backpack | Click here, here and here to view the video clip close ups

Lastly, I picked up this Hello Kitty backpack from Nordstrom a few weeks ago and I think it will be very useful for when I’m traveling and want to be hands free. I wish the red bow was removable but otherwise it’s a cute mini backpack if you’re a fan of Hello Kitty like me.

If you happen to have a Banana Republic card you can get 50% off plus an extra 10% off at Banana Republic with the codes BRCARDFF and BRCARD (apply both codes at checkout). I ordered this cropped moto jacket to try (when I saw it in store it looked like it ran small) and I also ordered a big haul for my husband (check out my reviews of his favorites here).

Thanks for stopping by!