I work with a lot of women who need wardrobe for their professional life.  Thankfully living in Austin allows a more casual style compared to nearby cities Dallas or Houston.  Here are three ways I love to mix and match dressy and casual: 1. Start with a pencil skirt When I was a shopgirl, I would often wear a pencil skirt to work with the usual suspects– a button down, pearls, and kitten heels.  But I had the most fun with my look when I started pairing the item with more casual gear, like a t-shirt. work it rag and bone Aria striped tee work it Tanya Taylor pencil skirt The up-and-coming designer Tanya Taylor (who was a 2014 CFDA fashion fund finalist), added a fun pinwheel print to her skirt.  Since I love prints together, wear a striped t-shirt with it and be sure to have a shared color in both prints so they coordinate. 2. High heels can add instant polish to even the most casual outfit As a stylist, I appreciate a dressed down look, especially after several days of working with clients (and wearing the equivalent of my Sunday best as a result.) So when I’m going out to dinner, I pair a high heeled sandal with my boyfriend jean. These Cole Haan sandals come in a beautiful neutral with a subtle metallic, and would be just as lovely with a linen suit. work it Cole Haan Cambon high sandal One celebrity fashionista whose style I admire is Lupita Nyong’o.  Here’s her version of a casual outfit spruced up with a heel. work it Lupita Nyongo denim with heels 3. Mix high-and-low Not only is combining designer brands with better priced items (aka discounted!) great for your wallet, but it creates a more unique look versus wearing a head-to-toe label outfit. work it Topshop Marigold shirt dress by Boutique work it Ferragamo Varina flat Topshop has a great work shirt dress in a mod inspired print that can easily transition from work to happy hour.  Pair with the classic Ferragamo flat and you’re ready. What’s your favorite go-to of mixing casual with dressy?