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Spring Work Essentials

Seven classic pieces that will take you to the office and beyond this spring.

By Ava Feuer

Feb 15, 2012

With all the talk of trends and style risks, it's easy to forget the power of streamlined, reliable basics. These spring standouts are the building blocks of the working woman's wardrobe so go ahead, plan your outfit around them.

J. Crew Icon Trench

There's no need to wait for April showers to don this winning coat. Appropriately named for its iconic silhouette, this double-breasted classic will finish off skinny jeans, pull together a skirt ensemble, and pop against both dark and brights. The designers thought of every detail — a notch collar, buckle-tab cuffs, a waist-nipping tie — and we're grateful for each one. $298, J.Crew.

Bop Basics Pencil Skirt

The ultimate blank palette, this simple skirt cries for a silky printed blouse, a fabulous pair of heels, and killer jewelry. We'd pair it with peep-toe, patent leather pumps, a stack of bracelets, and a statement necklace. Voila! $150, Shopbop.

Diane von Fursternburg Top

Speaking of patterned shirts, we're on top of this style from the queen of elegant prints. Although mixing prints can be difficult to pull off (alas, life isn't always a runway), the fact that the top and bottom half are essentially the same design in different colors makes things markedly more simple. The split V-neck means this blousy number is sexy, but nonetheless appropriate for most offices. $325, DVF.

J. Crew Tillary Purse and Carnation Necklace

It's all about the accessories. Lilly Pulitzer for the non-Palm Beach set, this Kelly green clutch is polished and functional, thanks to a detachable strap. Wear it long, short, or in hand. Then, throw on a vintage-inspired, floral necklace to ring in the new season. With petals tipped with beads in order to appear lifelike, it's the next best thing to spending the day frolicking outdoors. Bag, $148, and necklace, $98, both J.Crew.

Michael Kors Booties

Half clog, half ankle-boot, this feisty footwear will have you soaring to such great heights. Thanks to the front platform and thick heel, the wear-all-day style will give you a 4.5 inch boost without pain. The wraparound buckle and split-shaft also guarantee that regardless of what you wear on top, your feet will steal the scene. $395, Michael Kors.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Top Handle Satchel

This briefcase is made for a woman. Soft enough to be feminine, yet serious enough to mean business, the pebbled leather satchel fits comfortably in the crook of your arm, or draped over your shoulder. Use the dual interior compartments to keep your super-busy life organized. $528, Marc by Marc Jacobs.

J. Crew Perfect Shirt

This shirt is borrowed from the boys, but designed just for the girls. J.Crew partnered with Thomas Mason, a family-owned mill that's been hand-looming fabrics since 1797, to produce this design, meaning this gingham top is the real deal. Don't relegate this checkered button-down to casual Friday. Instead, let it personalize the rest of a more traditional, conservative outfit. $150, J.Crew.

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