How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting #iwillwearwhatilike

How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

This week’s #iwillwearwhatilike outfit post features denim, another way to wear my camel blazer, a new bag – and new hair!

I’m wearing the same camel blazer from my last outfit post, but styled differently (and for a totally different occasion). I had an informal meeting last week with a rep from a brand I’m working with, and for once I didn’t have far to travel… just a 40-minute drive in the car: we met in a town near me which made a lovely change from travelling all the way up to London! Normally for work outside of my home office I have to travel by train and take walking and comfort into careful consideration.

But this time I could choose heels. This time I could take minimal “stuff” in a not-huge bag. This time I only had to be warm enough for the car and the one-minute walk to the meeting place from the car park.

As it was, it was a lovely warm sunny day – we’re STILL enjoying mild, sunny days here in Blighty well into October (albeit with a heavy dose of rain now and then)…!

So as this meeting was VERY informal it was fine for me to wear jeans and just smarten them up with a few carefully chosen pieces. I’ve had these dark wash jeans a few months now (thank you to my friends at JD Williams for the surprise gift) and they’re not just a great fit, they’re made of an amazing eco-friendly fabric:

How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

SHOP THE LOOK:


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They’re “eco made” jeans and are actually made from 97% recycled bottles. HOW?!!

And not only are they eco-friendly but the fabric is COOLMAX® which is specially designed to keep you cool by wicking heat and moisture away from the skin. So JD Williams – as always – have designed something PERFECT for midlife ladies. The fit is also comfy – they’re one of only two pairs of jeans I’ve really worn this year with the heat we’ve had. They don’t gape or bag at the waist (usually the problem I end up with when I need jeans to fit my hips). They do have a few small “designer rips” around the pockets and top part but with this blazer they’re not visible.

 

| Smart Casual Autumnal Jeans and Blazer Outfit |
| What It’s Like to Be a Guest Editor for the JD Williams Magazine |

 

Other than that, I give them top marks (and only £40 to boot)!

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Onto the other features of the outfit…

How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

A fabulous blouse (last seen on a night out with a pleated maxi skirt) and the camel blazer work beautifully together and instantly make the jeans smart… as I said the rips are hidden under the blazer so if you go for a dark wash denim and no rips then jeans will always look smart and are fine for informal meetings IMO.

The grey leather backpack is new: another gift, this time from the lovely people at Katie Loxton. They have lots of luxurious gifts from leather purses and backpacks to candles and jewellery, and many of them can be personalised. I love finding indie sellers at this time of year for unusual and unique gifts; next month I’ll do an alternative Christmas gift guide same as I did two years ago (I didn’t do one last year for some reason? I’m sure Katie Loxton will feature). The leather on this bag is beautifully soft and the quality is wonderful: the grey is going to go with EVERYTHING.

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A leather backpack is a great alternative to a tote bag and fits the relaxed vibe of wearing jeans to your informal meeting – I also love the hands-free aspect. I never thought I’d love them again after they were such a key feature of my school uniform days: as always I’m fully converted!

And finally my hair: I featured the (re)lightening of my hair on my Stories over the weekend and I LOVE IT. My overall hair colour has been going darker and darker for the last couple of years and I wanted to get back to this pinky-copper colour I first had three years ago, so five hours(!!) in the hairdressers later and I was back to my proper ginger colour. Proper as in “the colour I want to be”, not as in “the colour I really am”.

The colour I REALLY am is a mystery, but I’ve already decided to grow out my dyed colour when I turn 50 in four years’ time. We shall see if the grey is grey enough to stay grey….!

Do add your outfits to this week’s link up – and if you’ve added a link to here or my button to your post you may be featured next week!

ARE YOU ABLE TO WEAR JEANS TO WORK AND/OR MEETINGS? HOW DO YOU STYLE THEM? COMMENT BELOW…!

Catherine

Like this post? You might also like…

Grey Leather & Suede Booties with Boyfriend Jeans
How to Style a Camel Blazer For Autumn/Fall

Disclosure: I was gifted some of these pieces by the brands (with no obligation to talk about them) but was not compensated for writing this post (click here for my full disclosure)This post contains some affiliate links which means if you click through and buy I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. All content is original, however, and opinions are my own and 100% honest.

How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style
How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style
How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style
How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style
How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style
How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

Blazer: Oasis (similar)
Blouse: Anonyme c/o
Jeans: JD Williams c/o (made from 97% recycled bottles!)
Heels: Lotus c/o (similar)
Backpack: Katie Loxton c/o
Sunglasses: Asos (love these)
Earrings: Toolally c/o

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The #iwillwearwhatilike link up with Not Dressed As Lamb
Thank you for joining the #iwillwearwhatilike link up! This started as a campaign on Instagram in August 2015 where women over 30 wore everything on a journalist’s list of “inappropriate” items for 30+ women (including leopard print, short dresses and oversized sunglasses. Yes, really). It was so popular that I decided to carry it on weekly where women of all ages link up their fabulous style, never mind what anyone tells them not to wear!

The link up goes live every Monday at around 3pm UK time and will stay open for a week. Whilst the original article was of course aimed at the 30+, you can be ANY age to link up. The only criteria is that you’re wearing whatever you damn well like!

Linking up etiquette…

CLICK HERE to read the rules of linking up (and to grab the #iwillwearwhatilike button). Basically it’s just good manners to link back to here – to leave a comment is even nicer!


PLEASE NOTE: This is for linking up WHAT YOU’VE BEEN WEARING ONLY. Non-outfit links will be removed and you might be blocked if you turn out to be a repeat “offender”! Do share the love and visit as many links as you can (you never know what other lovely like-minded ladies you might meet) – the original Instagram campaign forged some wonderful new friendships so don’t miss out.

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Want to receive an email reminder for the next link up?

Please note that due to the new GDPR laws I’m unable to send an email reminder unless you subscribe to the mailing list of your own accord. CLICK HERE if you wish to be sent an email with a reminder to link up to the #iwillwearwhatilike link up as soon as it’s live!

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I’m thinking of making this a full monthly feature… come back next week for details!

How to Make Jeans Smart for an Informal Meeting \ camel blazer \ dark wash skinny jeans \ patterned blouse \ block heel black shoes \ light grey backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

38 Comments

  1. Sarka
    20 October 2018 / 6:51 am

    This is a gorgeous look…
    I love that gray leather backback.
    The hair is gorgeous!

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:13 pm

      Thanks Sarka – the leather is soooo soft, I just love the bag x

  2. 11 October 2018 / 3:42 pm

    Great jeans – a big pat on the back for JD Williams! I love your shirt, fab print.

    Emma xxx

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:13 pm

      They’re SO comfy Emma!!!!! x

  3. 10 October 2018 / 11:02 pm

    I love how you dressed up your jeans with a blazer because it makes it look more sophisticated! I think I need to dress up my denim. I also love your neutral bag.

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:14 pm

      Blazers and jeans are such an easy throw-it-on, Lanae – probably why I have tons of both!! Thank you x

  4. 10 October 2018 / 3:53 am

    What a great look! We’re only allowed to wear jeans on Fridays, which is total bummer, because I have so many work jean ideas… I just bought a pair of jeggings that are made from recycled bottles — what kind of wizardry is this?????

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:15 pm

      I know – HOW do they make fabric from plastic Daenel?!! I don’t get it, but boy is it clever…!

  5. midlifeandbeyond
    9 October 2018 / 2:04 pm

    Hi Catherine,
    I love that look, as I live in jeans quite a bit and find the blazer length so flattering and stylish. I have seen a few on the high street, but I’m very tempted by the one you are wearing (love the colour) – there are also a few check detail ones I like – there’s too much choice!
    Love your hair as well by the way – I’m not sure how to use the whole stories thing on Instagram yet I clicked on it by accident on Saturday and there you were!
    Alison
    xx

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:16 pm

      Hehe I’m just popping up wherever you go, Alison…!! 😉 Thanks hon – I love my Prince of Wales check blazer too, they’re such a versatile piece! x

  6. 9 October 2018 / 1:23 pm

    Catherine you have a sparkle back! Your hair is fabulous I am loving it!
    JD Williams are turning out to be a very commendable brand dont you think? Hurrah and high five to them!
    bestest Ash x

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:17 pm

      I’m very impressed with JDW too Ashley… nice to see a brand actually THINKING about what midlife women want!! Thank you my lovely x

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:17 pm

      Aww thank you lovely Maria x

  7. 9 October 2018 / 3:05 am

    Sustainable denim is so rare, I’m thrilled to read that JDWilliams have such a fabulous eco friendly line!
    And Catherine, your hair is so pretty xxx

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:17 pm

      Thanks MT – yes how do they do it? If they can make this great denim which can’t ALL denim be made that way?????

  8. 8 October 2018 / 11:39 pm

    I love that gray leather backback. I always have mixed feeling about carrying these but you make it look so stylish!!! Love it.
    Lisa

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:24 pm

      I was REALLY against them when they came back on trend Lisa but I’ve been converted! They certainly weren’t this stylish when I was at school…!! 😉

  9. 8 October 2018 / 11:07 pm

    Love that bag Catherine, finishes off a fabulous outfit too. You really can’t go wrong with a blazer in Autumn, I’ve got a formal navy one and can’t wait to wear it again. Happy Monday. Jacqui Mummabstylish

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:25 pm

      Thanks Jacqui – and you’ve reminded me about my own navy one! Must go find it in an unpacked box somewhere…

  10. 8 October 2018 / 10:09 pm

    Love this recycling idea! Have you seen the bottle top bags? I have one on my wish list. You look fabulous from your detox break Catherine xx

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:26 pm

      No I’ve not seen those Laurie! Don’t they do amazing things with recycled fabrics, materials etc. these days 😀

      and thank you x

  11. 8 October 2018 / 8:54 pm

    This look feels very classic to me, but I love how you’ve made it yours with a pop of retro pattern. I feel like you can’t go wrong with a camel blazer!
    Cheryl Shops

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:26 pm

      I have to almost stop myself reaching for the camel blazer EVERY time, Cheryl!! It goes with everything…!

  12. 8 October 2018 / 8:21 pm

    Such a good look on you, Catherine. I love how the earrings and the sunnies make it SO YOU. I’m off to investigate those jeans, coolmax and eco friendly sound amazing! xx

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:27 pm

      I don’t know how but that Coolmax fabric definitely works Lisa…! thank you hon x

  13. 8 October 2018 / 8:18 pm

    I absolutely adore this look Catherine. It’s coolly chic, if that makes sense. The jacket is such a pretty colour.

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:27 pm

      Thanks so much lovely Anna! x

  14. 8 October 2018 / 7:54 pm

    The hair is gorgeous! Such beautiful colours! I love it too when a appointment is not far away from my car! High heels and all.

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:27 pm

      Hehe thanks Nancy – I don’t get meetings that close very often…!

  15. Nicole
    8 October 2018 / 7:28 pm

    Just love this look, so effortless but effective. I would have got stuck at the type of shoe, could you do a post as to what shoes or boots look good with skinnies, boyfriend, other types of trousers, I get so stuck on this on my pear shaped calves and legs. Thanks for a great post.

    • catherine
      Author
      26 October 2018 / 2:29 pm

      Thanks Nicole – post idea noted! It’s definitely a case of trial and error, and I haven’t always got it right. I’ll see what I can do! x

  16. 8 October 2018 / 6:31 pm

    I love blazers. The colour of yours with the jeans is great. And how cool is it that you can meet a rep so close to your home? The soft grey of the bag is a beautiful neutral. I often prefer a small backpack to a bag so I can be hands-free. Thanks for the linkup.

    • catherine
      Author
      8 October 2018 / 6:42 pm

      Backpacks are a revelation, aren’t they Melanie…?! Thanks hon x

  17. 8 October 2018 / 6:20 pm

    Love your hair that colour. You’re very brave to say you’ll grow your hair colour out at 50! It’s the growing out process that frightens me the most.

    • catherine
      Author
      8 October 2018 / 6:29 pm

      It’s really out of curiosity Gail! My roots are so white that I’m dying to know (see what I did there 😉 ) what colour I really am…!

  18. 8 October 2018 / 6:17 pm

    This is my favorite way to wear jeans. A blazer just seems to add so much sophistication to it!!
    XOXO
    Jodie

    • catherine
      Author
      8 October 2018 / 6:29 pm

      Thanks Jodie my lovely x

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