Working for the Weekend.

It’s important to have pieces that cross genres— a cardigan that works at the office and on date night, earrings that are appropriate for both the office and a party, a pair of pumps that you can wear with everything you own, etc.

I try to imagine all the different ways I will be able to weave something into my wardrobe when considering a purchase. I’m short on closet space (if you can believe it; I irrationally blame the economy) and am not exactly independently wealthy, so this method tends to benefit me in the areas of Space Conservation and Cash Money as well.

Let’s consider one of my favorite subjects, the accessory. Here are a few items that will carry you through the work week straight into the more relaxed weekend:

1. Paloma Barceló Velati wedge sandals ($315)
2. Gorjana Alphabet charm necklace ($48)
3. Juicy Couture strawberry stud earrings ($42)
4. Calypso St. Barth for Target hammered cuff ($15)
5. Forever 21 scarf ($6.80)
6. Boonkit faceted amethyst studs ($75)
7. Paola Ferri 1549 oxford ($73)
8. Michael Kors watch ($160)
9. Dorothy Perkins belt ($16)

Bust out of that same-pair-of-ballet-flats-everyday rut and grab a pair of wedges or oxfords. These Velati wedges (1) are perfection in the office with a pair of trousers or on weekend time with a summer dress. The oxfords are equally versatile— they work with ankle-length pants or skinny denim.

Jewelry is an easy way to add personality to an outfit, but sometimes the office requires you to scale it back a bit. Perhaps that staff meeting isn’t the best place for shoulder-grazing chandelier earrings, yes? You can still add a touch of cheekiness with these strawberry studs (3), or color with a pop of amethyst (6). A charm necklace (2) is a classic choice, and will look sweet with your office-friendly twin set and chic with your LBD on Saturday night. While an armful of bangles might not work 9-5 (too noisy while typing, don’t you think?), a cuff (4) is the perfect stand-in. Or you can go the watch route— practical and stylish in bright blue (8).

A lightweight scarf (5) is one of my favorite accessories as the weather warms up, because both offices and movie theaters always seem to be cold, yes? Wrap it around a simple white tee and pair it with a pencil skirt Monday through Friday, and then add it over a dress and a denim jacket for your weekend errands. While you’re at it, belt both those outfits with something not black or brown. A stone and mint-colored belt (9) is a great find.

What are your best work-to-weekend accessories? Do you have a favorite?