Post Holiday Combination for Work

After the commotion of the holidays, I usually choose simple monotonous colors with a spattering of decorations. The following suggestions are particularly relevant for the corporate sector where a more conservative sense of fashion is encouraged.

1. Gray pencil skirt flatters almost every size; there are quite a few available options in stores, but one I am very fond of is a BR option:

(http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=35288&vid=1&pid=813830) : its length is just above the knee and the shape around the thighs is particularly suiting for fuller figures. The two seams at the back add an edge to the skirt and compliment its '180 degree' view.

2. Sleeveless blouse in orchid; this particular color fits perfectly gray as it adds vividness to the outfit. One option I like is the L&T chashmere sleeveless shell:

(http://www.lordandtaylor.com/eng/womensapparel-Sweaters-Cashmere_Sleeveless_Shell-lordandtaylor/146163): this blouse can be worn on its own, or in a combination with a black or white jacket. The material is also warm and makes the sleeveless nature of the blouse feasible for the winter.

3. "Decorations": this outfit needs classical earrings and a necklace; I'd personally chose black Tahitian pearls, but you can also use freshwater pearls or a simpler combination of silver. An option for black Tahitian pearls I like is available at the purepearls store:

(http://www.purepearls.com/tahitian-baroque-pearl-necklace-18-inch-8-0-12-12mm-aa-aa-quality.html): these pearls, while expensive, are unique and their harvesting started only in the 1960s and their supply in the world is limited. A guide on how to choose pearls can be found at: http://www.pearl-guide.com/about-us.shtml

 4. Black pumps: any well preserved pair of black pumps would put a finishing touch to this outfit. One option I like is stored at:

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=512916&CategoryID=17397.: this Cole Haan pair appears comfortable and something one can wear all day long.

PS. Any comments or suggestions on how to complement the outfit are strongly welcomed.