Blazer: The Hyo Jacket in Everyday Twill | Shorts: The Adina Short in Everyday Twill | Top: Leslie T-Shirt in Pima Cotton | Bag: Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Petite Double Bag | Shoes: Ann Taylor Sandals
It’s official… I’m back in the office full-time. After a lengthy work-from-home stint during the height of the pandemic, to a hybrid setup last fall, we’re back in person. Moreover, our Chicago office was able to expand its footprint within the building. Now, it’s an updated setup with new conference rooms, more space, and a reimagined layout. Even though I truly loved working from home, it’s wonderful to see my colleagues and navigate this next chapter at work. At the same time, it’s wild to think of all that’s changed since March of 2020.
One thing that hasn’t changed is my need for office-ready workwear that can go the extra mile. Think comfortable, functional, beautiful pieces that can be dressed up or down to meet the ever-changing demands of work and life in 2022. Enter M.M.LaFleur, a brand I’ve known and loved for years. Back in 2019, I was able to visit and share about their former Chicago showroom, and I fell for the female-founded company known for elevated work/life essentials, engaging content, and a mission to help women achieve success. Moreover, I love that the founder of the brand is also half-Japanese 🙂
M.M.LaFleur Power Casaul
Some of the standout M.M.LaFleur Power Casual pieces include elastic-waistband joggers that have the appearance of trousers; a fully-fashioned knit sweater that looks just as good with jeans as it does under a blazer; and ultra-soft Pima cotton T-shirts that are polished enough to tuck into a pencil skirt. In short, they specialize in ultra high-quality items that are as polished as they are comfortable.
Moreover, their design team goes the extra mile. For example, the Milo jean featured above has a concealed snap in the hem that allows you to adjust the length. That’s the first time I’ve ever seen denim allow you to switch between flats and heels in a snap (literally). Also, the Hyo jackey below includes a hidden drawstring waist to allow you to adjust the definition of the jacket to your liking – love that!
Outerwear: M.M.LaFleur Jensen Silk Trench | Top: M.M.LaFleur Celeste Top | Pants: M.M.LaFleur Milo Jean | Belt: M.M.LaFleur Beebe Belt | Bag: Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Bag | Shoes: Ann Taylor Sandals
A Thoughtful Brand
OK, here’s what I really love. Not only does M.M.LaFleur go the extra mile when choosing fabrics and design elements, they also do so when thinking big picture of their company’s impact. For example, they have a section of their site called “Second Act.” There, you can sell your previously-loved M.M.LaFleur pieces – and buy them as well. Such a genius way to allow customers to source classic items from the brand’s archives!
They also put their efforts into sustainability. From ethical textile production to their new fabric, Recycled Wondertex (made from recycled bottles), their team is conscious of their fashion footprint. Moreover, they partnered with FABSCRAP to recycle the bits of material that get left behind throughout the production process. Additonally, the brand has committed to use 100% sustainable materials by 2030 and to be fully climate-positive by 2040. So good!
M.M.LaFleur Gives Back
Since 2017, they’ve partnered with an incredible organization called Bottomless Closet, which helps disadvantaged NYC women enter and succeed in the workforce. Also, M.M.LaFleur has offered complimentary clothing loans to women running for public office – um, amazing! Even better, they are Gender Fair-certified company. Gender Fair is the first consumer rating system for gender equality, which reports on how companies serve women as leaders, employees, customers and citizens. Lastly, I love their blog, “The—M—Dash.” Not only is the title a clever play on words honoring a sorely underused punctuation mark, it’s also an amazing hub of interviews, style tips, and more!
In Closing
If you’re like me, you’re probably on the hunt for womenswear items that can go from desk to drinks to weekend without skipping a beat. Plus, you need for your new purchased to perfectly meld with the staples you already own. Thankfully, M.M. LaFleur has you covered. Shop their new arrivals here and their iconic Power Casual staples here!
