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It’s always intriguing to revisit older pieces showcased here on Corporette®; sometimes they still resonate, while other times, the style or specific clothing item feels outdated. I find myself reminiscing about the fashion choices we made in the past, observing how trends have evolved. I would love to know your thoughts on these past favorites! Would you style these items differently today? What replacements have you made in your wardrobe as fashion continues to change in 2025?

In this post, I’ll share a selection of outfits featured on May 29 throughout the years, exploring their styles and how they could be adapted for modern wear.

Stylish Work Attire for Late May

May 29, 2008: Chic Flutter-Sleeved Cardigan with Peplum from Anthropologie

This delightful cardigan from Anthropologie was highlighted just a few weeks after the launch of the blog. While I appreciate the cardigan’s intricate details, the layering style definitely reflects the late 2000s fashion trends. It’s amusing how we used to refer to layering pieces like camisoles as “emotional support camis,” given how we paired them with nearly every outfit. Additionally, let’s not forget the popular statement necklace that accompanied these looks!

Currently, short-sleeved sweaters are making a comeback, though I haven’t spotted many short-sleeved cardigans akin to this one lately. Interestingly, I suspect that peplum styles might be on the rise again. If you’re searching for peplum options for work, you’re in luck! In 2025, brands like The Fold, Rebecca Taylor, and Amazon seller Grace Karin have embraced this style. Bloomingdale’s is another fantastic destination to explore. While not exactly a peplum, the slightly flared cardigan trend, popularized by Khaite, offers another stylish alternative—check out options from Modern Citizen or Jenni Kayne for inspiration.

May 29, 2009: Elegant Long Cardigan from Old Navy

Ah, another classic from the fashion archives—a long cardigan that was quite popular at the time. This particular piece may not fall under the “waterfall cardigan” category, which typically features a more relaxed cut, allowing the collar to drape and the front to hang lower. This period coincided with the rise of skinny jeans, making longer cardigans a welcomed addition to many outfits.

At work, I often paired these cardigans with pencil skirts, blouses, and camisoles. In my leisure time, I cherished them for their practicality, especially since many featured pockets and no zippers, making them perfect for nursing or carrying my first child without worry. Honestly, I still have a few of these long cardigans in my closet that I can’t quite part with, as they hold sentimental value!

If you’re in search of similar styles today, you can find long sweaters like the beloved Halogen cardigan, which features a side slit and has maintained its popularity over the years.

May 29, 2012: Stunning Origami Dress from Blumarine

I have a positive impression of this “origami” dress from Blumarine. If you’re still fond of sheath dresses—a timeless classic even if they’re not currently on trend—this piece stands out beautifully.

Originally priced at $1325, this dress was offered at Neiman Marcus, showcasing its luxury appeal.

Exploring Sheath Dresses in 2025

Bonus Feature: Coffee Break from May 29, 2012: Round-Toe Wedges from You By Crocs

It’s a surprise to recall that Crocs once ventured into the realm of high heels, as illustrated by these round-toe wedges. While wedges may not be the current trend, they have always held a special place in fashion. I believe they are practical for outdoor events such as graduations and weddings, offering the height of a heel without the discomfort of stilettos or block heels. Interestingly, I sense they may be making a comeback, albeit with pointy or almond toes.

Wedge Trends in 2025

May 29, 2013: Classic Merino Cardigan from Brooks Brothers

This cardigan caught my eye for its charming details, especially the tipping on the patch pockets, cuffs, and hem. I remember the slightly fitted “Grandpa sweater” style being in vogue at that time; I even owned a similar one from Theory, which was a dark gray with purple tipping. Patch pockets seem to have diminished in popularity among cardigans today, but I still believe you can stylishly wear this piece. Notably, cobalt was trending back then and remains a vibrant choice.

This sweater initially retailed for $395 but was marked down to $158 by the time I shared it.

Classic Cardigan Styles in 2025

May 29, 2013: Fashionable Short Skirt and Long Jacket from Theory

Reflecting on this piece, I couldn’t help but share my thoughts:

To be candid, I believe the “short skirt and long jacket” look, reminiscent of Ally McBeal, is making its way back into fashion. It seems that the recent trend of shorts suits was a subtle introduction to the aesthetic.

While I lived through this style during my teenage years, I wonder if it should primarily remain with the youth. If anyone is considering this look for a casual workday, my suggestion is to wait for the fall when dark tights can be incorporated.

It’s amusing how Elizabeth and I were just discussing how shorts suits are beginning to look appealing to us. Stay tuned for an upcoming post where we delve deeper into this trend. For now, the short skirt and long jacket aesthetic hasn’t made a significant comeback yet, but I have a feeling it’s only a matter of time.

Discovering Suits with Dresses Instead of Skirts

May 29, 2014: Perfect Trousers from GAP

I fondly recall these trousers from GAP, which were part of a guest post by Road Warriorette. The “perfect trousers” line was a long-standing favorite, known for being comfortable, washable, and available in various sizes, including petite, tall, and even maternity sizes. The maternity sizes were particularly sought after, often going in and out of stock due to their popularity. Although the Editor and Columnist pants dominated the fashion scene during this time, these trousers were equally noteworthy.

Wide Leg Pants Trends for 2025

Are you in search of more wide-leg pants to enhance your work wardrobe? As of 2025, popular choices include pleated options from Aritzia, Favorite Daughter, Everlane*, Reformation*, and Abercrombie*, as well as flat-front styles from M.M.LaFleur and Ann Taylor (* = includes plus sizes; see the post for additional details on petite and tall sizes). Additionally, we’ve provided insights on the best footwear to pair with wide-leg trousers!

May 29, 2015: Trendy Python Blouse from Equipment

I’m a bit perplexed by this choice as well—it wasn’t particularly trendy at the time, and while I appreciate the colors and pattern, it seems more suitable as a layering piece than standalone office attire. The blouse was originally priced at $198 but was marked down to $39 at Last Call (oh, how I miss Last Call!) for our Frugal Friday feature.

Currently, mesh blouses are becoming increasingly popular, although the challenge lies in finding suitable occasions to wear them. Brands like Halogen, Desigual, and DKNY offer options available at Nordstrom.

May 29, 2018: Black Max Mara Suit Featured in the NHYS

As expected, much of our content was centered around the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale, a perennial favorite among readers. The Max Mara suit featured here exemplifies the appeal of such sales—its blazer was reduced to $713 (originally priced at $1190), while the dress was available for $417 (originally $695).

Three-quarter sleeve blazers have waned in popularity in recent times, and I’m curious to know if anyone is still incorporating them into their wardrobe today! However, the “faux ruched” blazer sleeve trend remains relevant, as seen in a popular design from Cinq à Sept.

May 29, 2019: The Iconic Deneuve Top from M.M.LaFleur

As I wrap up this look back at past styles, I still find this faux wrap top from M.M.LaFleur featured in 2019 appealing, although it has certainly faded in trendiness since then. I still wear some sweaters from that era, and Ann Taylor has offered a similar cashmere sweater for several years, including the previous winter season.

M.M.LaFleur continues to offer this particular top in their Second Act section, albeit only in straight sizes, which is unfortunate given the discontinuation of their short-lived plus-size program.

Readers, do you still have any of these items in your wardrobe? Which pieces are you wearing, how are you styling them, or what alternatives have you adopted in your collection?