Sayeh Pezeshki is the owner of SortingwithStyle.com and has an amazing ability to transform cluttered offices into stylish and organized spaces.  We wanted to see how she translated that style into her work wardrobe and give you the opportunity to steal it!

Sayeh’s office is casual and California chic.  She has paired skinny jeans with heels and a ruffled blue top giving her a nice long and lean look. She also utilized her basics starting with dark wash denim, a black tee, and finishing with a watch and necklace.  This ability to layer her outfits must come from looking at office accessories all day. Let’s find out:

1) Your business is creating stylish work spaces. How would you translate your office styling tips into creating a sophisticated work wardrobe?

My motto is to always choose what inspires you the most. This translates to your clothing as well because your clothes affect how you feel too. However, I do always say as with Office Styling and also with clothing, there is such a thing as too much. Over accessorizing an outfit, just the same as over accessorizing an office. Keep it simple and stick with pieces that inspire you such as a ring in your favorite color, or the perfect every day dress. Sticking to basics and adding all the right accessories is what I would recommend to keep it simple, yet classy.

2) What is your favorite look when meeting with new clients?

Overall the way I dress at the office is pretty casual. Not, wear your pajamas to work casual (this is a BIG no-no!) but jeans, a nice blouse, pretty jewelry and some ballet flats are usually what I wear. Or the same thing but with heels. I am big on wearing jewelry to spice up my outfits just the same as making small changes in your office to make it what you want to be.

3) We are very passionate about women presenting themselves in a professional light. Tell us how and why your office space plays a roll in this.

Your office represents you, so you always want to have your best foot forward. If clients walk into an office that is disorganized or filled with un-matching furniture, trust me when I say they notice. Not only is it important for you to take care of your office space, but you’ll work more efficiently when you are in a space that is customized by you. Let’s say you have a cubicle and everything is pretty mundane to you. Now, add accessories that you love, and it becomes your space. Or take the time to declutter your reception area, maybe add a beautiful painting. You’ll notice the difference, and your clients will too.

So how can you Steal her Style? Start with basics tees and tanks. She loves these styles from Banana Republic.

Then it’s time to play with accessories.

An outfit is never complete without the shoes!

Sayeh’s style starts with great basics and finishes with fun accessories. Steal her style for casual days in your office today!  To learn about creating a fabulous work environment to match your chic work wardrobe, visit her site SortingwithStyle.com.

If you are like Jennifer and myself we are always searching for the perfect pair of Denim to add to our wardrobes.  When you are petite and curvy like ourselves, trying on jeans can be just as painful as getting a root canal.  So what do you do?  Here are some jeans that are perfect for your particular body type.

Petite

Rolling up your jeans will make you look even shorter.  Try a slimming boot cut jean and have them trimmed or tailored so they fall right at the top of your shoes.  That will make your legs look even longer. Or look for a designated petite jean.  Most of the major denim manufacturers offer petite sizes.

Paige Premium Denim Laurel Canyon Petite Bootcut Jeans in Lagoon

Joes Jeans Provacateur in Ryder w/ Light Stitch Pockets

No curves ahead

Loose and low pockets will make a flat bottom look even flatter.  You want to opt for denim with stretch and pockets that are placed higher in the back.  That will give the illusion of curves.

True Religion Joey Heritage Big T Flare Jeans in Vintage

Joes Jeans Chelsea Jean in Vincent

Curves ahead

If you have a pear shaped body then you will all be too familiar with the wind tunnel problem.  You know where the denim fits fine in your thighs and hips but leaves a gaping hole that can create a wind tunnel at your waistline.  You can always take them to a tailor to get this problem fixed.  However a rule of thumb to look for when shopping is that a lower rise in the denim will help solve the gaping hole problem.  Boot Cut, Trouser, or Flare jeans are the best cuts for your body type.  Stay away from super tapered items.  They will only make your hips appear larger than they actually are.

Paige Premium Denim Pico Flap Pocket Bootcut Jeans in Royal Sapphire

7 For All Mankind Ginger Trouser Jeans in Los Angeles Dark

Women’s apparel: Lucky Brand Henna Sweet-N-Low Flare Jeans - Ol linx

Tall and Leggy

The envy of us short stature women, tall women have the exact opposite problem-they can’t find jeans that have the right inseam or length.  Look for denim that offer longer inseams.  Don’t give up and settle for inseams that are too short for you.  Jeans should always fall right in the middle of your foot.  That is a good gauge to see if the inseam is a good length.

7 For All Mankind 36″ Long Stretch Bootcut Jeans in New York Dark

New York & Company Women’s Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans, Eclipse Wash - Tall - Eclipse Wash

So if you are headed back to class or just need a new pair of jeans to start off the Fall season-try to remember these tips when you are on your next shopping trip!

We found the next girl on the streets on New York City.  The question of the week is..are leggings considered pants?  Are they acceptable to wear to the office?

FYI..this wasn’t a workout outfit.  We think those clothes are in the blue bag.

We would love to hear your thoughts!  If you have a photo of a workwear do or don’t, please send to info@workchic.com.

Fall is just around the corner and one of our favorite ways to beat the chill is jackets and scarves.  Pick out blazer silhouettes that will add to your professional image. Plus scarves do double duty and give your outfit a little personal style.

This Shrunken Blazer in gray is ultra feminine with pleated pockets and pink stitch details. We have paired it with a pink paisley scarf from The Vintage Scarf. Finish the the look with matching grey trousers or a black A-line skirt.

We are in love with the soft structure of the Gretajacket from Fossil.  Soft fleece is warm and comforting while military styling gives it an updated feel. Pair it with denim and a Reptile Chain Scarf from Sabina Les.

Our third look is a Women: Cotton motorcycle jacket - Slick rock from Banana Republic.  Accessorizing with a Batik Beaded Fringe Scarf from Silk Road Spirit will add extra interest to this style. For business casual pair it with black trousers. On more casual days at the office this style will also look chic with denim.

We know it’s still warm out now- but these scarves are super light weight and perfect accessories! Wear them now to update basic blouses and tshirts. Then as the weather starts to shift, have stylish jackets ready so you don’t miss out on any Workchic style!

Fall is right around the corner and that means caring for the different types of fabrics in your colder weather wardrobe.  While your first inclination might be to take everything to the dry cleaner you don’t always have to.  If the labels reads ‘dry clean only’ then however please take that last word ‘only’ seriously. However if there is a dry clean option on the label then try some of our tips below that will keep your dry cleaning bill to a minimum this Fall season.  

Cashmere

You can wash cashmere.  Turn the item inside out and machine wash on the gentle cycle with cold water and a neutral PH shampoo (see below).  Then roll the item in a towel and let sit for about 5 minutes.  Unroll and lay the item flat on a mesh sweater rack.  Gently reshape the item. If you don’t like how the item looks after directly washing it.  Then gently brush them with a cashmere specific brush.

Wool

Take your wool jackets and pants to the dry cleaner.  However a wool knit can be treated just like your cashmere knit.  Just remember it should be washed in cool water.   Also when you wear a wool knit it looses shape after one wear.  Drape the item on the back of a chair for 24 hours.  That will allow the wool fibers to regain their shape.  You can  also get rid of any piling or fuzz with a sweater shaver.

Velvet

Most velvets should be dry cleaned.  Never iron the velvet because that will flatten and crush the fabric. 

Corduroy

Corduroy can be machine washed.  However iron the item inside out so it doesn’t ruin the fabric.

Suede and Leather

Suede and Leather should always be professionally cleaned.  If you receive a stain on the garment put water on the area as soon as possible.  Then let air dry.  If the item is suede you can brush it off .  Always try to treat your suede and leather items with a protective spray.

We received a great questions from one of our readers. She wrote the following:

“I am required to wear all black to my job. I work in retail sales and the dress code is business casual or business depending on the department you work in. Usually I wear black dress pants and a button down or knit top.  What can I do to feel more unique with this limited dress code?

This is a great question Rachel! Even without color limitation dress codes can feel stifling. But they should not, you still have plenty of room to express your individuality. Here are some of our creative ways to showcase your own style.

Since you usually wear pants, try mixing things up with a dress or skirt. This Max and Cleo Dress has a fun bead detail to accentuate the waist. If you are aloud a splash of color, as long as the majority of your outfit is black, try this Floral Jersey Dress.

When selecting tops, try to find something with one interesting detail. This Giedre Blouse for example has a pleated stand up collar. This EMBROIDERED CRINKLE SILK BLOUSEwill look chic over a simple cami with trousers or an A-line skirt.

Another way to create individuality is with accessories. We kept our selections to black, but if you can add color, this is the perfect place to do so.  This Seed-Bead Necklace also has a chain link styling.  Just putting a Steve Madden Ruffle-Edge Belt around a simple cardigan will add some interest.

We hope this helps you update your work wardrobe. Since we are going into cooler weather, add layers and play with different fabric and textures.  This will help give your outfits added interest. 

Our goal is to help take the stress out of getting dressed for work while still maintaining a feminine, professional, and chic image. If you have questions on how to do this, send them our way. Just email info@workchic.com. We look forward to helping you dress to impress!

We have been focusing on the most suitable clothing for your body type but what about accessories? What earrings best suit your face shape?  We have to admit Jennifer and I sometimes implusively buy earrings for the look or trend not thinking about the outcome of making our faces look longer or rounder.   But we are so glad to share these tips when shopping for your next pair of earrings!

Square Face Shape:

Large rounded earrings suit the angular jawline of a square face shape.  Try delicate styles with filligree or cutout details. Long earrings are best especially if they fall midneck or even longer.  It will help soften the jawline and draw attention away from it.

Filigree Earrings-$154.95

ABS Gypsy Earrings-$175.00

Filigree Circle Earrings$4.00

Stained Glass Earrings-$4.00

Oval Face Shape

Well this is apparently the ideal face shape that can wear any type of earrings!  Here are some options below:

Miguel Ases Turquoise and Coral Chandelier Earrings-$325.00

Faceted Stone Drop Earrings-$8.50
Resin circle earring-$49.00
Shimmering fringe earring in Gold$42.00

Round Face Shape:

In order to avoid a round face from looking well.. rounder, it needs to have an earring that will extend past your jawline.  Linear and long shapes brings your focal point down and away from the cheekbone area.

Amber and Turquoise Earrings-$39.95

Rebecca Norman Hammered Double Disk Earrings-$77.00

Diamond Dangle Earrings-$4.00

 Flower teardrop earring - Blue combo-$36.00

Heart Face Shape

The Heart shape face needs earring styles that will balance out their facial features of having a wider forehead and pointier chin.  Earrings that are narrow on top and wider on the bottom work best for this facial shape.

Teardrop Dangle Earrings-$4.00

Beaded Chandelier Earrings-$4.00
Textured Stone Earrings-$4.00
Drop-stone earring in Gray-$32.00

Happy Shopping!

Last week we brought you a photo of an outfit that was somewhat questionable attire even for the most casual office.  Here is the post in case you didn’t see it.  Thank you for all your comments.  To answer the most asked question-there was nothing under the bottom half of the shirt/dress!

 This week we saw this woman leaving her office building.  Now the question really comes down to this- does a cardigan (see on her arm) transform a short black dress (it was one shoulder by the way) to make it more office appropriate?  How about a tote bag? Or is it still a short black dress that is not meant to be worn to the office?  You’ll see what we mean in the photo below:

We would love to hear your thoughts!  Also if you have spotted a workchic outfit do or don’t in your city, please email us the pics with your comments at info@workchic.com. 

Stay tuned for more Workchic on the Street!

Is this your first back to school season that you are not going back to school? Have you entered the real world? Do you miss an excuse to shop back to school?  You don’t actually have to be going back to school to take advantage of the sales and discounts. Here are some of our favorite ‘All Grown Up’ back to school purchases.

Instead of new backpack, why not purchase a new handbag?  Totes will carry all of your necessities plus they have a professional look. You can find casual styles, options to tote your laptop, or just something new.  If you prefer something designer- don’t forget we have an exclusive discount for you at Avelle.com. Shop now and save 25% with code WORKCHIC25.

We all still need denim, it’s a core wardrobe piece after all. Look for dark washes you can wear on casual days to the office.  Gap has lots of new styles and fits worth checking out. The Perfect Bootcut is great for the office. We also like a wide leg trouser styling, like this pair from Hudson Jeans.

It’s easy to get lost in new stationary, pens, and folders. Don’t forget you need these around the office too. Instead of boring ruled pages, get a fun to do list or unique post it’s.  These are from SortingwithStyle.com.

Many companies are running special sales for the season. Take advantage and update your work wardrobe basics. At Endless.com Save $20 on $100 orders of select back-to-school styles. Plus more discounts from Ebags, Payless, and MyJewelryBox.com.

 Our friend Malie who owns vintageshoppingguide.com shared one of her great posts on tips and tricks on keeping your handbag in mint condition.

It’s amazing how the handbag has gone from being an afterthought accessory to a highly important part of a woman’s wardrobe. Luxury handbags have waiting lists now, and some handbag lovers will do anything to get their hands on the latest “IT” bag.

We all love our handbags and, depending on how much money you spend, they can become a real investment. Designer vintage handbags in great condition can fetch top dollar at vintage stores and trade shows. So, even though we know you cherish your new designer handbag it is in your best interest to keep it in great condition so that later on you have the option to resell it if. That is why it is important to care for your bag properly to ensure that it has a long life. Periodic cleaning and correct storage will keep your bag looking like new. Here are some tips on how to extend the life of your handbag:

Prevention

1. If your handbag does not have “feet” on the bottom, you can have them added by a leather-care expert. Feet protect the bottom of the bag from scratches and dirt.

2. Try to avoid setting your bag down on the ground where it can get really dirty. You can purchase purse hooks that you can hang off the back of chairs that will hold your bag off the ground.

3. Keep makeup in a separate makeup bag as to prevent spills and powders  causing stains.

4. Be mindful to never put a pen in your bag without a cap. I don’t even like to use push pens as they can accidentally mark up the inside of your bag.

Storage

1. Handbags can be hung on a hook for a few days for storage, but any longer puts too much strain on the straps.

2. Ideally, handbags would be stored in cubbies built into your closet, but you can also store them in baskets or bins made of plastic-coated wire. Stand them upright or lay them down and don’t crowd them. They need to breathe, so don’t put a tight-fitting lid on.

3. When storing loose bags fill with balls of tissue paper to help keep the shape.

Last week we wrote about tips on How to Keep Your Handbag Looking Like New. We got a lot of feedback. Thank you! Well, it came to our attention that there are these ingenious fashionable hooks that you can buy and keep in your purse. Then when you go out to restaurants, bars, etc. You can take out the hook and hang up your purse! This will prevent your bag from touching the ground and possibly becoming soiled. Brilliant!

There are several different makers of this type of product, and a wide variety of designs to choose from. Some collapse into a compact style shape, thus taking up less room in your purse. Others are meant to clip onto the outside hardware of your purse and act as purse jewelry when not in use. We even found one that you can wear as a bracelet! We think these are fantastic gift ideas for just about any occasion, and they are not that expensive.

The most important feature I think is to look for a hook that can withstand the wait. I don’t know about you, but I stuff a lot of things in my bag and it weighs a ton! Here are a few different companies to choose from.

http://www.pursejewelry.com/

http://www.localhardwear.com/

http://www.silverhooks.com/

www.pursehook.net

Thanks Malie for these great tips!   Read more of Malie’s blog posts at http://blog.vintageshoppingguide.com/.