Dig this in LA Times

My latest obsession

Shop Bop is my favorite online shopping site and I am completely obsessed with this recent email with the work/after work outfit. I absolutely adore this Diane von Furstenberg plaid blouse. The big ruffle/tie is detachable. I love how Shop Bop tucks it into a gigantic trouser to tastefully highlight a tiny waste, and then pairs it untucked with cigarette pants and gladiators. LOVE IT.

Unfortunately right now, I don't want to spend $225 on a blouse and $264 on cigarette pants and $672 on that tote. I don't think many of us could spend that right now. So I spent the greater part of yesterday reconstructing, to the best of my abilities, both of those outfits at more realistic prices.

First, the work outfit -

A very similar blouse is available at Banana.
I am not sure if this one is as cute as the DVF untucked, but let's hope.

Those high-wasted, wide-leg trouser are so flattering for hourglass and pear shapes. Blue Fly has a pair, and these have a tummy-flattening front with the sailor-pant buttons.

Since the Banana blouse is black and white, I would pair a colorful tote with this work outfit. Get this Nordstrom on in Claret.

Evening outfit -

Again, Banana has a cigarette pant or for a lot less, just get a pair of leggings .

Orange gladiators !

And a subtle, matching clutch .