does this outfit work?

august 2007

Emaleah Shackleton, the subject of the "Does This Outfit Work?" feature in our August issue, loved the idea of wearing shorts to work but wasn't sure how to make them office-appropriate. Here's how we helped her out:

• Replaced her silky white button-down with a drapey cotton navy blouse. The monochromatic effect this creates gives the shorts a more serious look.

• Added a hip-length, structured boxy jacket to offset the leg-baring style as well as the casual feel of the shorts.

• Switched out her flats for sleeker black pumps.

"Emaleah has a very feminine waist, so to frame her shape, we chose a slightly shrunken jacket with three-quarter-length sleeves—such a modern alternative to the typical suit blazer," said our senior fashion editor, Laurie Trott. "Also, a dark top paired with dark shorts looks so chic under the crisp white cover-up."

Emaleah's reaction: "I love the changes! Before, my outfit didn't look very pulled-together. Now, not only is this professional enough for office hours, but I'd feel cool wearing it to meet friends for dinner."

Want to appear in Lucky? Send us a photo of yourself wearing an outfit you need our help with.