Embellishments made a splash this spring, and this BCBG sleeveless top with a ruffle ($138, www.bloomingdales.com) imparts a femme touch to a pencil skirt staple. Michael Kors's black patent cross-strap wedges (they're also available in nude, $109 at www.bloomingdales.com) say "important shoe" and adds attitude to this daytime-to-evening look, while balancing the frill of the blouse.

Boyfriend is the buzzword on every fashionista's lips. The fullness of this white (also available in black) relaxed-looking jacket, $199 at Club Monaco in Georgetown, with a tank top underneath, works well over a pair of skinny skinny denims for a laid-back look on weekends.

Wear the tank top with distressed boyfriend jeans and Kors sandals for another variation and if the spirit strikes you, add a pop of color with a poppy scarf. "It's a flattering color for every skin tone," says Rick East, Prada specialist at Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase.

A multistrand necklace, made from onyx and turquoise by an area designer ($345 at Tabandeh, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW) transforms a basic tank top and adds polish to a pair of cropped pants. Elevate the outfit with cool-girl cross-strap sandals and throw the louche jacket over your shoulders when the AC dips down too far.