My favorite types of novelty in a wardrobe are novelty basics, pieces that have some excitement to them but get you the same amount of mileage that more basic pieces would. The reason these items are important is because very novelty pieces can be very limiting in that they can only be worn one way or are very specific in silhouette. Instead, novelty basics, like interesting tops, can add some punch to an outfit while being able to be worn like a basic.
Novelty Tops For Work That Work
Below are three different novelty tops for work and how easy it is to style them.
Outfit #1
With Pantone’s Marsala being the color of the year, I couldn’t resist using this Modcloth top that works for the weekends and the office. Here, because the top is blousey, I styled it with a slim J. Crew navy pinstripe pencil skirt (note: tread pinstripes like this like solids and add any color to them), a pair of brown suede Ivanka Trump boots a Banana Republic chain bracelet and Ann Taylor stud earrings. What this blouse does is elevate the outfit from something less basic without going overboard. Also note, with a top like this you don’t need a lot of accessories to look finished, a great strategy for the minimalists out there.
Outfit #2
Next, this top that I love from eShakti. Again, like the first top, it’s great for work and weekend. While the top is relaxed, it has some structure with the cinching at the waist. With it, I added a pair of slim black pants and just filled in the neckline with a bronze Bauble Bar bib necklace and a pair of metallic shoes from Sam Edelman. Lastly, around the wrist I added a black bracelet from Max & Chloe.
Outfit #3
When you wear a novelty top it doesn’t mean the rest of your outfit has to be basic. Here, this navy Reiss bow blouse works beautifully with this navy and camel leopard print skirt from Boden. For arm coverage, I added this cashmere boyfriend cardigan from J. Crew and finished the look with tan Franco Sarto pumps.
Be mindful with your novelty
You don’t need to have a lot of novelty basics in your wardrobe, a few in each classification (i.e. tops, knits, jackets, etc.) is more than enough. Too many of these pieces and you might find that it isn’t as easy to mix-and-match your wardrobe. Also, before you buy new novelty tops for work that you think through the multiple ways you can wear the piece before you buy it. Just because it is a novelty item does not mean you shouldn’t get your money’s worth.
Shop for novelty tops for work
Looking to add a few novelty tops to your work wardrobe? Check out these additional styles here.