After featuring a lot of colourful outfits recently I decided to go back to basics with classic black and leopard print. A pair of black wide leg trousers is a wardrobe essential so it’s worth paying a bit extra for a good quality pair that will last. Or even better, buy them in sale, which is what I did with these from Phase Eight. They were heavily discounted in the Debenhams sale so I used up the remainder of a gift voucher earned through Topcashback to buy them. So basically they were free 😉
The starting point for this outfit was actually the long sleeveless jacket, which was also a bargain. I found it in the Marks & Spencer outlet where I occassionally go for a browse in my lunch break. When I first saw it I picked it up intending to buy it, but then I put it back wondering if I’d really wear it that much. However, the classic style, great quality and bargain price (reduced to £14) made it too good to resist. Immediately I started to think of different ways to style a long sleeveless jacket.
At first I envisaged wearing it over a blouse with voluminous sleeves and maybe neck frills. (I will save that for another day!) But for its first outing I teamed the sleeveless jacket with tailored trousers and a stretchy leopard print top for work. This top is quite thin so the extra layer is great for chilly days and air-conditioned offices. Adding a sleeveless topper means I can wear a coat over it without too much bulk.
A camel coat is another classic piece that will serve you well. Mine is a slightly slouchy fit so I can throw it on over anything, even a chunky jumper. It always looks stylish paired with black but as a neutral it looks great with any colour (camel and burgundy is one of my favourite combinations). I added my cute hedgehog brooch for a quirky touch.
I really wanted to wear trainers but as the trousers are quite long I needed some height to stop them dragging on the floor. My leopard print ankle boots are quite comfortable and match the top (you can just about see them under the trousers). I’m not exactly short but I’m finding that trousers seem to be getting longer – I have half a dozen pairs that need taking up. Do brands think we’re all 5’10” and above? Maybe it’s time to learn how to use that sewing machine sitting in the cupboard!
SHOP THE LOOK
Marks & Spencer sleeveless jacket | Phase Eight trousers | Jennifer Hamley vegan leather bag | Great Plains camel coat | Principles ankle boots | Yaa Yaa London ring | brooch from eBay
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliates links which means I may earn a small commission for any purchases made through them, at no extra cost to you. This helps towards the running costs of the blog and is very much appreciated.
Johanna Grange, Kim of Fierce Fashion and Shauna of Lipgloss and Lace!
First of all, I LOVE animals, and that hedgehog pin is Adorable!! Love it with the warm colors of your outfit. I never tire of leopard, and love it on you. Vest are trending this Spring and I love it styled it, a nice change from a jacket.
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
Now that’s a coincidence! I bought a black sleeveless vest last week too, also a bargain. My first vest ever. I bought it because I was inspired by some outfit, and now I don’t know by who anymore and don’t know how to wear it. Ha ha, I will try some outfits!! Great combination that leopard and black!
I have two pairs of black wide leg trousers and love how I feel when wearing them. I have a post planned with mine for next month – with a similar styled outfit. Thanks for hosting today Emma, have a super rest of the week. x Jacqui
Great workwear outfit where you look stylish and contemporary, and not wearing a “uniform” as it always used to be. I love your stylish touches, the ring and the nail polish.
Success. Anyway being able to link and comment aside, if you have trouble with trouser lengths spare a thought for me.
I adore leopard and black. Totally chic always.
Anna
Wow, you look terrific!
I love your style!
Thanks for hosting today.
Rosemary
I hope trousers aren’t getting longer. I will have to cut them half way soon! Love the long waistcoat. A huge trend for this year I’m hearing. xx
Love this classic leopard and black combination! Thanks for the link up!!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Black and camel is such a great color combination. And I, of course, love all the leopard print, too. I have a few of these long line sleeveless jackets. I need to wear them more often. I love the drama!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
That is an amazing deal on your sleeveless trench! It looks fantastic on you too! Love the hedgehog pin! Super cute!
Love your outfit. Thanks for hosting.
Looking chic as always, Emma! And that hedgehog pin is darling!!!
Bettye
https://fashionschlub.com
I’ll never tire of black and leopard, especially together!
Cheryl Shops | http://www.cherylshops.net
Such a classy look!
Your brooch is so cute! As someone who is 5’2”, I feel your pain regarding the length of trousers.
Michelle
http://mybijoulifeonline.com