Business Casual: Chinos are Back

In the 1990s and early 2000s, I wore a lot of Gap chinos. All colors. Usually with a t-shirt or a button down. Then, the style faded away, and I developed an affinity for wearing dresses and moved on. But like so many things from yesteryear, chinos are back for summer.

When I spotted this street style photo on Pinterest, I thought about how easy the look was.  How it seemed pulled together, but unfussy.  It could be worn in a home office, in a business casual setting, or on a springtime casual Friday.  Here’s how to recreate it.

Pants // If you’re looking for an alternative to athleisure or jeans, these soft, simple chinos are it.   This pair from J.Crew Factory come in a lovely pale spinach color (sizes run 0-24).  LOFT has a softer rosemary color in a straight leg style.  For a modern style, try this olive pair from Anthro with a larger pocket and more relaxed look.

Love the color but not on board with chinos?  These Gap sage jeans  are a nice option.  I also noticed that the Athleta Endless pants come in a sage green color.

Shirt // To soften the look of a button down shirt, I like a banded collar style.  It’s a little more relaxed.  This style from Land’s End fits more like a popover and is a very affordable price.  Tuckernuck has a similar shirt from Rochelle Behrens that is a more traditional button-down style.  Looking for an easy wearing, machine washable style?  Aday’s shirt is an influencer favorite.

Sweater // I swapped the navy coat for a long navy sweater blazer.  This sweater from Nordstrom Rack comes in several colors and is super affordable.  It’s the perfect work from home sweater.

Shoes // The ankle strap sandal is a style that was at the height of its popularity in the mid-2010s.  This airy, woven style from Boden is more modern than the photo style.  For my money, I think these Madewell ballet flats with a woven look are the ones I would choose.

Bag // I wrote about this Michael Kors crossbody last week.  I ordered it in orange, and while I was a little disappointed in the color, I loved the bag.  It is so useful.  Slides into another bag easily.  Holds all the essentials.  The exterior phone case is a plus for a parent who wants to be able to snap photos without digging in their purse.  Plus, it’s $79.  I’ve bought fast fashion bags that cost more and weren’t anywhere near as well-made or useful.  I’ve told every woman I know to buy one, then have the Michael Kors logo removed and replaced with a simple plaque.

Accessories // These Lagos earrings are an awesome option for an every day stud.  I love the mix of textures.  At $275, they’re what I would call a birthday gift price, but they’re fab.  For something less pricey, try these silver love-knot earrings are worth a look.

These Quay sunglasses are chic.  I adore the mix of the aviator style with the tortoise acetate.  

Styling // The low ponytail is a good look.  It’s very relaxed and chic.  I would also just wear my hair down, in the way I style it every day.  This whole look is meant to be simple and light, so nothing over done.

For the makeup, I LOVE these Summer Friday lip colors.  This Lip Butter Balm in Brown Sugar is my very favorite.  Not sticky, hydrating, perfect for every day.

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