Love it or hate, Corporate America is here to stay. From the shouler-pad touting suits of the '80's to the Reebok's-and-socks trend of the early '90's, looking professional and put-together but maintaining some semblance of personal style (all the while trying to be comfortable), has always been a challenge. With America's movement towards more casual than business, the line between what is appropriate, trendy and flattering is increasingly blurred. So how do you make this happen? How do you dress for work like you deserve a promotion but still incorporate some of the latest trends...like neon and floral-on-floral?
Having worked in "white-shoe" environments in ultra-style-conscious NYC for nearly seven years, I like to think I've developed some guidelines for looking chic yet slightly fashion-forward at work. And generally, I have a couple of principles I stick to:
Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! These often underestimated pieces deserve a standing ovation - simple touches like a great leather belt or layered chunky necklaces can transform any outfit from 2005 to 2012. Each season I invest in a few good pieces and wear them throughout the year. Check out this necklace from J. Crew...
Embrace the uptown/downtown philosophy. No, I'm not talking about above 60th Street and below Houston. I'm talking about funky up top and business on the bottom. I have an amazing pair of tangerine orange trousers I love to wear to work. But when I style them, I keep it very simple with a crisp white button-down and rich brown pumps. The same goes for my neon yellow sandals - I keep the rest of my outfit classic with muted colors and minimal accessories. Sequins at the office? No problem! I pair my sequin-embellished cream blouse with slim-fitting cigarette pants and neutral pumps, and I'm ready to go. These pants, from Alice + Olivia, are a perfect example...
Invest in a few good blazers, and don't look back. These magical pieces have the ability to evolve almost any look from "meh" to amazing in two seconds flat. Whenever I have a big meeting coming up and I need to feel locked & loaded...boom, blazer time! If I want to wear a trendy blouse or a summer dress that is otherwise too casual, blazer-town brings it together. Find the store that has a few styles that look the best on you, and begin stalking. This one from Club Monaco completes the whole look I've featured here...
And lastly...Dress for your body, regardless of the trends. If you're on the short side and long skirts are not generally flattering, midi-lengths are not going to work for you...ever. Trend, schmend - if an article of clothing is not flattering, it should not be worn. Period. Having an understanding of your body and what shapes/cuts look best on you is the foundation on which to build any wardrobe. Skirts with a high waist tend to look best on me, so over the years I've amassed quite the collection and each time I put one on, I feel amazing!
So there you have it. These few, simple rules will make your work-look anything but simple!
- Emily
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