Fantasy Outfit: July 7, 2009

Here's another fantasy outfit centered around the idea of non-offensive work pants, similar to yesterday's take. I drew from Moschino's Resort 2010 collection in putting this look together -- the carrot pants, roomy up top and slim at the ankle, were what got me thinking about slacks in the first place. The end result feels grown-up and sophisticated, but it still has a cutting-edge bent that's a vampy and a little androgynous.

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1.) Serious shades in an '80s shape project confidence and call to mind the era's power dressing without bringing shoulderpads into the equation. "Freddie" sunglasses, $11, Fred Flare.

2.) Just like with yesterday's fantasy outfit, a casual tank underneath is less expected that a stuffy button-up, and the slubby feel keeps the whole look fresh and chic. "Patsy" striped racerback tank, $9.90, Heritage 1981.

3.) This blazer's cropped, fitted shape and serious masculine tailoring up the whole outfit's ante a little bit. Silence & Noise menswear blazer, $78, Urban Outfitters.

4.) I've shied away from harem pants in the past -- even though I like the look when it's done right -- but these ones are perfect. Not too roomy up top or too tight around the ankle, a crotch that isn't dropped too low, and, perhaps most importantly, a more structured construction than the ubiquitous loose knit styles. Until I can find a real pair of Moschino-style carrot trousers, these will do fine. "Turkish Delight" harem pants, $34, Lulu's.

5.) A huge reflective cuff adds dimension and edge. Faceted mirror cuff, $16, Nasty Gal.

6.) With black and navy, a blue-toned true red nail lacquer is the obvious choice -- sexy and classic peeking out of a black satin peeptoe. OPI "Got The Blues For Red" nail polish, $7, Nail Polish Diva or check your local beauty supply.

7.) Another page I took from Moschino's book -- a pop of blue patent looks so good against a mainly black palette. Warehouse "East West" zippy shopper, $35.91, ASOS.

8.) Love these ultra-sexy black satin slingbacks -- the substantial platform and bow detail take them to the next level, making them unexpected for the office and so right with these pants. "Mariah" satin slingbacks, $139, Bebe.