I can’t believe it, but in a couple weeks, I will be starting my articling term at a firm in downtown Toronto. It’s been a long road (from school, to internships to studying for the bar), but I’m excited for this next step in my career. And with that, comes the perfect excuse to build a new wardrobe. Lately, I’ve been interested in the capsule wardrobe movement, and curating a closet that has versatile pieces. And…it will also help my tiny closet situation at my downtown apartment! This week, I partnered with Grayes, a Toronto-based fashion brand to share 5 different outfits from two work wear pieces.
What I love about this brand is that all the pieces are designed and made locally in Toronto. I was really impressed with the quality of the items, as well as the fit. The blazer is made of a lightweight wool-blend fabric that works for all seasons in Southern Ontario. The stitching and fit is immaculate, and reminds me of some of the designer work wear pieces I’ve collected over the years. Lastly, the price is very reasonable… I would compare the price range to other mall-brand stores, except that the quality, fit and unique designs rise above!
During OCI season and interview week (the interview process for law students), many of my friends would ask for help with suits and outfits, and I never could direct them to a local option within a reasonable price range. I’m so excited to have discovered this brand, and hope other young professional women can finally have a local option without a designer price tag.
So, here I’ve rounded up 5 ways to wear the Blazer Dress and the Blush Flip Dress from Grayes to get you through the work week!
Monday: Feminine Summer Office Outfit
On day one, I wore the Grayes Blush Flip Dress with a pair of pink Prada pumps, a Kate Spade tote and a choker necklace. This look is super simple but great for the office or an event after work. I love the way the dress is fitted and is the perfect length on my frame!
Tuesday: Chic in an all-black Office Outfit
The next day, I wore the Blazer Dress on its own for a chic all-black office outfit. I added a skinny Gucci Marmont belt which draws in my waist and is a more subtle accessory. I also paired the power outfit with my ultimate power pump: my Christian Louboutin Ograde heels. This look is very asymmetrical, and I love the way the blazer dress makes an LBD look masculine and architecturally interesting. In the summer, you could even wear a light slip dress underneath, so when you leave work you can undo the button and have an effortless second look.
Wednesday: On Wednesdays we wear Pink
On Wednesday, I went a bit more casual, and paired the Grayes Blush Flip Dress with a denim jacket from Forever 21. Because Grayes is made in Toronto, I also paired it with my “Toronto” pin and Blue Jays pin I got at Crywolf on Ossington. I also wore a pair of low Converse sneakers, and a fun straw purse from Tuck Shop Trading Co x Poolside. If you keep a jean jacket in your desk, you can easily take this work-dress to a ball game after work with a casual layer.
Thursday: Pink and black
For Thursday, I decided to pair the two items together for a classic blazer and dress combo. I personally loathe dress skirts, and find they ride up all day and twist around (serious struggle). When I buy suits, I always look for lightweight wool or blended dresses to wear with a blazer because I find it more comfortable and versatile. I layered the Blazer Dress over the Blush Flip Dress and it was a perfect match. There was enough space in my shoulders and I loved the way the blazer looked almost like a waterfall jacket. I paired it with a pair of Kate Spade tweed Becca flats.
Friday: Casual Fridays Office Outfit
For casual Friday, I wore the blazer dress again over a pleated chiffon tank, Levi’s 501 jeans and chic black suede Renny pumps from La Canadienne (as seen on our First Lady!). I added a fun “it-bag” of the moment – the Cult Gaia Ark Bag, for some interest and to contrast with the black jacket and lighten the look. This outfit was very comfortable and perfect for casual Fridays. If your workplace is more conservative, I would wear a pair of chambray slacks or jeans without holes. If you’re lucky enough that your workplace is more relaxed, you could definitely wear this look with wedges or sneakers!
For size reference, I am wearing a size 4 in both pieces.
I really enjoyed mixing and matching two work wear pieces from Grayes to create 5 looks over 5 days. It was challenging, but it showed me how investing in versatile, well-made pieces can transform your wardrobe possibilities! For all my fellow articling students, I hope this guide was helpful as well!
Thank you to Grayes for partnering with me on this post. Opinions my own.