When you work in fashion, you never know exactly where your workweek will take you. “Each day is definitely different,” says Who What Wear editor Anna LaPlaca. “I spend some days largely in front of my computer writing and doing market research for my stories (aka online shopping), and other days I’m bouncing around attending a brand preview, meeting with a publicist over lunch, shooting outfit photos for upcoming stories, attending a cocktail event, or any combination of the above.”
What’s her secret to putting together 9-to-5 ’fits that never let her down, even on her busiest days? Choosing a few hero pieces each season that serve as her wardrobe’s building blocks. “Items like a pair of relaxed trousers and a slouchy moto jacket are high on my priority list for fall,” notes Anna, whose personal style could best be described as sleek and tailored with just a hint of trendiness. “In general, I like my looks to feel comfortable, cool, and lived in. After all, living in NYC requires a certain amount of function over fashion.” Ahead, see three key looks Anna has queued up in her fall rotation, all built around her favorite trend-forward pieces from Anthropologie.
“Lately, I’ve been enjoying adopting traditional menswear silhouettes into my style, like tailored trousers, loafers, and most recently, vests,” explains Anna of this bold yet comfortable workweek look. “They lend an effortless yet ready-for-business feel that’s perfect when I’m attending a press preview of a brand’s latest collection or meeting for coffee with a publicist.”
“Speaking of wardrobe staples, mixing ‘trendier’ basics is my go-to styling choice for a day when I’m in the office and heading directly to happy hour afterward,” Anna notes of her next look. “Jeans and a button-down are a great work-approved base while a slouchy leather jacket and heeled ankle boots offer a cool edge that works for both day and night.”
And for dressier occasions, Anna swears by her go-to LBD. “There’s no question that this stunning corset dress is the main event here,” she says. “The boning at the bodice creates a flattering silhouette, and I appreciate how it translates my tailored style DNA into an evening-ready look. I think a midi-length LBD is such a key wardrobe staple—it’s a clean canvas for standout accessories like this beautiful beaded bag. This is exactly the kind of look I’d wear to a press dinner or any event where the dress code is cocktail attire.”
