I recently posted about styling up these Perfect Black Pants from SPANX for the office (I added a simple button-up top and lug-sole loafers), but I wanted to make them work for, well, outside of work.
From the times I was serving or bartending or teaching, I typically always think black pants = work pants. But these babies are so comfortable, I wanted to find a way to dress them up for date night or make them more casual for weekend wear.
Dressed Up Or Laid-Back: SPANX Perfect Pants Live Up To Their Name
cardigan (XS) | pants (M) | bag | sandals
They feel like loungewear (hi, four-way stretch) despite the fact that they have “shaping technology” (which makes your butt look good), so I find myself wanting to wear them over and over again. They’re like leggings — but pants. So no need to cover up that booty!
cardigan (XS) | pants (M) | bag | sandals
I find the easiest way to dress up black pants is to add a sexy heel and chic bag. The strappy Jeffrey Campbell sandals I’m wearing here are favorites of mine because they look good with absolutely everything, and at under 3 inches, they’re not too high for longer wear. They come in a ton of colors, but I love the nude color. Some reviewers found the strap between the toes uncomfortable, though, so these Open Edit sandals are super-similar but without that strap.
cardigan (XS) | pants (M) | bag | sandals
I ordered this French Connection deep-V cardigan during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, honestly thinking I would return it. I ended up loving the fit, though, and now I’m looking at getting the gray as well (it’s still 40% off!). I love that I can wear it without a shirt underneath (that gives it a sexy vibe without revealing too much) or layer it over everything from graphic tees to dresses. This is easily one of my most-worn sweaters right now and will continue to be in the fall…aaaand probably winter too.
cardigan (XS) | pants (M) | bag
I’ve really been into wallets on chains lately. After having to carry a HUGE bag around for years (hello, diapers), I’m loving being able to get away with a dainty little bag like this Kurt Geiger wallet. It holds pretty much exactly what I need — phone, cards and a lip gloss — and is almost more like jewelry than a bag. (Which is obviously perfect for date night.)
Keepin’ It Casual: Black Perfect Pants For Relaxed Weekend Outfits
sunglasses | sweatshirt (XS) | pants (M) | sneakers | bag
Adding white sneakers (specifically these Air Force 1’s) is my new favorite way to dress any outfit down. From dresses to jeans shorts to these black pants, sneakers just add a laid-back, cool vibe (I’m not like a regular mom — I’m a cool mom). Plus, they’re wonderfully comfortable, no matter how long you wear them. But since the sneakers/sweatshirt/pants combo was a little basic…I had to add some bling.
bag | sweatshirt (XS) | pants (M)
This bag from Steve Madden is easily the most obnoxious thing I own, and I mean that in the best way possible. I’ve never shied away from SPARKLES and SHINY things, and this bag is definitely both of those. It’s convertible, so it can be worn as a belt bag around your hips or over your shoulder using the thicker, detachable strap — or you can wear it as a crossbody with the chain over one shoulder. It’s just a fun way to add a little somethin’ to an otherwise simple, casual outfit.
sunglasses | sweatshirt (XS) | pants (M) | sneakers | bag
And I have to tell you guys about this jersey-knit sweatshirt (OK, technically, it’s a pajama top, but I’m wearing it pretty much everywhere but bed) — OMG. It’s called the softest for a reason. Made of mostly TENCEL (I’ve learned that this is my all-time favorite and the softest fabric to wear…plus it’s sustainable!), this sweatshirt is sooooo ridiculously soft and comfortable. When paired with the matching joggers (same fabric, just as soft), they make the perfect travel/loungewear outfit that’s still chic enough to wear outside the house. But I also love wearing it with jeans, shorts…and the SPANX pants, of course. I love it.
sunglasses | sweatshirt (XS) | pants (M) | bag
So, what do you think? Black pants only for work, or can we use them for date nights and weekends as well? I mean, you already know my answer…but if you still say no, they also come in navy. Hmmmm.
XOXO,
Scotti
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