You know how important your professional image is. This extends beyond your outfit and accessories, right to your desk. For today’s Friday Fifty Workchic Series we visited our favorite site for chic office supplies, Sorting with Style. 

Organizing is a little more fun with office accessories that represent your personal style. These file folder sets range from $9.95 to $18.95.

Keep your important tasks on the agenda with notebooks, planners, and calendars. Zebra Weekly Planner, $24.95, is a new item and coordinates back to other animal print accessories.  Peacock Floral Notebook is eco-friendly and only $4.95.  Flip through this Block Brown Perpetual Calendar to find birthstones, anniversary symbols, and dated months of the year. Never forget an important date for only $9.95.

Looking for more eco-friendly solutions? Try the Desktop To-Do Dry Erase Board to keep your daily agenda and save paper.  Only $14.95 with pen included.  Connect smaller documents with Staple Free Staplers, and avoid using unneeded staples. Pick one up in black, green, white or silver for $9.95. Share documents electronically with Lego style USB Flash Drive. Comes with key chain attachment for $32.95 with 1GB of storage.

Enjoy adding fun accessories to your office from Sorting with Style. To stay up to date on the latest trends in office design and learn tricks to keep your space chic, visit The Office Stylist, an online magazine for the Sorting with Style.

Stay tuned for more Workchic Finds under $50. Happy Shopping!

Mother’s Day is on May 9th so don’t forget to give your a mom a special gift!  With the help of Macys.com simple quiz you can now find gifts that best suit your Mom’s style & personality!  Take the quiz here.   If you want to dress your Mom in classic Workchic style then here are some of our suggestions below.

Showcase her inner fashionista with this Charter Club Floral Print Cardigan and it won’t break your budget at $39.98. Give your Mom a versatile tote that she can wear to work or while out running errands on the weekend.  We love how the Cole Haan Village Pocket Tote -$378 has tons of outside pockets so she can locate her keys in a flash!

Your Mom can layer the Jones New York Long Sleeve Linen Jacket-$119 over a cardigan like the one above or she can make it more business casual layering it over a blouse.   What woman would pass up a new wallet? We love the classic design of the MICHAEL Michael Kors Wallet in Jet Set Continental-$128.  The  zip around clutch style makes it more versatile to carry it on its own.

Diamonds aren’t only a girl’s best friend!  A pearl necklace exhudes classic elegance and can dress up the most basic of outfits.  For $200, your Mom will love the 14k Gold Cultured Freshwater Pearl Necklace. We often forget that watches  can add that touch of timeless sophistication to a corporate business look.  We love how the Fossil Watch, Stainless Steel Bracelet ES2203 is a steal for $115!

These are just some ideas on how you can keep your Mom in Workchic style!  Happy Mother’s Day!

I had the pleasure of volunteering at a college career fair last week and was introduced to inspiring job seekers.  Though what troubled me was the fact that all of the students (both men and women) were told to dress in black business suits.  A Black suit undoubtedly looks professional but if you decide to wear one to your next career or job fair and want try to stand out amongst the crowd-try to spice it up with the use of accessories, a detailed blouse or even your glasses.   The students I remembered the most were wearing a black suit but each had on a unique accent piece that added that extra touch to get them noticed in a sea of black suits.

(Images courtesy of Google Images)

Dress up that black suit of yours even when wearing a white shirt underneath with a necklace or bracelet.  Why not try adding the Mini Oval Beads Necklace  and Mini Oval Beads Bracelet?  Both are sophisticated yet simple enought to pull together an outfit. A scarf in a pop color like this ice blue Digital Print Scarf looks professional, chic, and anything but boring!  It adds just the right touch of personal style to get you noticed!   Remember that the bag you carry to the job fair also makes a lasting impression on a prospective employer.  Even though you may have a polished portfolio that holds your resume, the bag is an important part of your outfit.  A Black canvas beach tote is not appropriate for this type of venue.   A tote bag like this Perforated Front Pocket Tote Bag allows you to interview in style!

 

Good luck from Workchic.com! 

You can add a fresh look to your business suits with colorful blouses and unique patterns. For the warmer months, we recommend sleeveless shells or short and cap sleeve blouses. They eliminate bulk and with the right styling still look professional under your suit jacket.

A customer favorite, this Banana Republic Silk pleated bib top is easy and comfortable with a knit body. Since it is constructed in a more casual fabric, we recommend layering it under a suit jacket you can button for meetings. The silk neckline will stand out under your blazer. Banana Republic Watercolor print tank is more versatile in a soft print and neutral color palette.  It is also available in Tulle Pink if you would like to add a soft touch of color.

Elementz Top, Sleeveless Pleated Mockneck from Macy’s has a conservative neckline allowing for a more punched up color. This style also comes in a vibrant chartreuse. When wearing a blouse with a more voluminous neckline, like this Alfani Top, Printed Silk Cowl Neck Shell, pair it with a jacket you prefer to wear open.

Ruffle Panel Front Top from The Limited combines both pattern and unique styling.  We would wear a blouse like this under a tan, white, or black suit. In a more contemporary office, add a bit of shine with this Romantic Ruffle Top.

In buttercup stretch georgette this sleeveless button-front blouse has a tie at the ruffled neckline. We love how chic it looks tucked into a high waist skirt. By adding a blazer, Antonio Melani “Baylee” Blouse is office ready.  Also found at Dillard’s, Antonio Melani “Jackson” Blouse layers beautifully with Spring’s neutral shades.

By adding a touch of color or subtle print to your suits they will feel fresh for the office. Sleeveless styles can also be layered under cardigans for more casual days. We have a large selection of Workchic Tops available on our site. If you work in a more conservative office select one element to accent. The more contemporary your office environment the more you can play with color and patterns. Use your judgment to select the perfect blouse to update your professional suits. If you have questions about identifying your environment, send us an email info@workchic.com, or leave a comment below. Remember, business does not have to be boring. Add your personal style and give your professional look confidence!

I came across the You Tube and internet sensation Lauren Luke, who is best known for posting her exclusive makeup tutorials, was recently just featured on Oprah.com.  Lauren shares her tips for the perfect office makeup.  You can read  about how to get that understated look here.   I just loved one of her latest tutorials that will give you some tips and tricks on applying those beautiful shades of coral and peach this Spring. 

You can also find Lauren’s makeup collection at Sephora.  We love the By Lauren Luke My Vintage Glams and My Glossy Lips Complete Makeup Palette for Eyes, Cheeks and Lips My Vintage Glams which contains a feminine color palette with a touch of vintage charm.

                                         

                                       

Need a makeup palette that will take you from daytime to nighttime?  Try the By Lauren Luke My Smokey Classics and My Glossy LipsComplete Makeup Palette for Eyes, Cheeks and Lips My Smokey Classics.   At $ 37, both of these palettes make a great gift for loved one, friend, or even yourself!

                                

Want to learn more about recreating Lauren’s makeup tips? Make sure you check out her new book that highlights your favorite celebrity and everyday makeup looks!
                                              

Just remember the key to looking workchic is feeling good from the inside.  Wearing makeup doesn’t have to be intimidating. We’ll share some tips and tricks in the weeks to come on how a little makeup can go a long way in becoming workchic!

                             

While we love a great pair of heels, it’s nice to have fun ballet flats on hand during the spring and summer. We searched out some Workchic pairs on Piperlime all under $50!  Whether you are wearing a classic business casual outfit, a fun casual Friday ensemble, or just need a back up pair to throw in your tote, we have you covered.

White Mountain Edith Black Peep Toe flats are classic for $45. While these Franco Sarto Lisbon cut out flats have a more casual feel for $49.99.

Since neutral accessories are such an important trend this season, we had to find a couple of neutral pairs with interest. Fawn colored Blowfish Hammer flats are available for $40 with a stud and ruched detail over the toe.  Coconuts Franklin flat sandals are casual chic for $39.99.

Have a little nautical inspired fun with Pink Studio Gilmore flats for $49.99 or get your shine on with this Restricted Helmet style for $29.99.

We love to use ballet flats to inject a little personal style in our work wardrobes. For under $50 they are a budget friendly and Workchic.

Stay tuned for our next Friday Fifty Segment. Love these shoes? Have an idea for our next Friday Fifty Blog Post? Leave us a comment below.  Happy Shopping!

We received this reader question from Tara that is perfect to talk about on Earth Day.  How can you give back to your environment and our planet while still looking workchic at the same time? We found some earth friendly items on Shopbop that are perfect for the office and most of all are eco-chic!

We found the Alex and Ani Love Hangover Endless Hoops 
Alex and Ani Staying Alive Braided Chain Bracelet, and
Alex and Ani Park Avenue Cocktail Earrings are comprised of recycled metal. Pair them with your work outfit whether casual or business casual.

Who knew that the lining in a handbag like the MATT & NAT Yacht Studded Bag shown here could be made from recycled bottles? The Rogan Palms Tee  which is made of organic cotton, looks chic and edgy.  Perfect underneath a blazer for those casual days at the office.  The Re Collection Beaded Swing Tee is made from recycled material and fabric.  The variation in shading and detail makes each of the Re Collection garments one of a kind and unique.  

All of the items mentioned above not only look workchic but you’ll know that you are wearing something that makes an impact on the green movement! Happy Earth Day from Workchic.com!

Contest has ended, but you can order your very own Second Base Demi-Cami for 20% off with code WORKCHIC. Sale ends May 31st.

We think Demi-Camis from Second Base are one of greatest innovations we have seen lately.  They instantly transform revealing tops and dresses into stylish office appropriate pieces. Second Base has launched new colors for Spring and is giving away one right here on Workchic!  To enter, just leave a comment on this blog post about which color is your favorite and how you would wear it. Our drawing will be held April 30th. 

Haven’t heard of Second Base Demi-Camis? They are cropped camis that give you a little extra coverage without the extra bulk.

 

Light enough for comfort, but opaque enough to cover your cleavage, and your bra

Won’t roll up like a regular camisole

Effortlessly go from day to night

No snaps, hooks, velcro, or tape

Silky soft, eco-friendly micro modal engineered for a great fit

Made in USA

We love the idea of layering these light weight demi-camis under spring dresses for the office. Tell us how you would wear one and enter to win one of these three new colors; citrus, hot pink, or electric blue in the Sarah style.

  

Here’s a look we love right off the runway!

Anna Sui: Runway to Office by Workchic featuring Jonathan Aston tights

Jenny Hamilton is passionate about style, and her mission is to challenge the traditional workplace rules as a successful and stylish woman.  By day, Jenny is a corporate attorney for a Fortune 500 company.  At night, she runs Dorothy Louise, Inc., a style consulting firm specializing in projecting a professional image with a personality.  Her blog, Jenny Hamilton Style, highlights fashion tips for professional women (and sometimes men), ranging from maternity to post-baby to everyday style. 

 We just had to ask Jenny what her thoughts were on going back to work in style when you are a new mom!

                          

Back to Work in Style – A New Mom’s Survival Guide by Jenny Hamilton

When my maternity leave was up, I was ready to get back to work. My wardrobe was not. After nine months of pregnancy, my closet was a mishmash of clothes that didn’t work. My tailored suit jackets no longer fit over my new mom chest. My “go-to” creamy cashmere turtleneck was a neon arrow to my bloated post-baby belly. And my pants were definitely still tight in the wrong places. Like all new moms, I hadn’t given up on the last ten pounds, but I had to find something to wear to work!

How do you cope when your shape is still changing? Here are my “must haves” for getting back to work in style.

• Black. Anytime you are in a transition, it helps to focus your color palette. And when it comes to the need to pull on power outfits in a hurry, nothing is easier than black. Think of black is your best post-baby friend that is going to help you look sleek and chic.

• V-neck tops. Stock up on knit tops with v-neck openings, especially if you are still nursing. It provides easy access if you are going to pump, and v-necks draw attention up to your face and away from your problem areas. Just be sure that as your cleavage rises, the shirt opening rises proportionally.

• White shirts. You can still wear your white button down shirts. I like to throw it on under a cardigan and belt it for a power look. Set of pearls optional.

• Draping. You want some ruching or draping down your mid-section if you haven’t gotten re-acquainted with your Pilates DVD since your baby was born. This extra fabric, if it is placed well, will hide a few extra pounds as you transition.

• Skirts. Skirts are a godsend if your pants are still tight on your way back to the office. Plus, they are easy to pull on in the morning and usually require no alterations. Try a jersey knit a-line skirt or a cotton sateen pencil skirt with a little spandex.

• Wrap dresses. A jersey wrap dress is a great investment. It is a classic staple that can take you from day to night, and it will grow or shrink with you. Do not go too wild with a print, but find one with neutral colors that can be paired with a cardigan or sweater for greater longevity. If Diane von Furstenburg is too spendy, search on Workchic for less.

• Scarves and belts. Focus on attention grabbing accessories, like a long scarf tied loosely around the neck to hide the post-baby belly. Also, invest in medium-width belts and pair with summer weight cardigans or tunic tops. The belt will add definition to your waist, and the cardigans transition easier from work to home.

• Undies. Splurge on nice undergarments, like Spanx, and a few nice camisoles. Nordstrom carries a nice line of camisoles that wash well called Shimera.

• Heels. You may be a mom, but you still need glamour. A pair of nude pumps will go with everything and flatter the leg. If you have gams you are proud of, show them off!

• A Tan. I am not a fan of the fake bake, but a little bronzer can go a long way to perk up tired new mommy skin. My favorite new mom splurge is TANtalizer Award Show glow, which is great for faking hosiery (who has time to run back and forth to the store for it, anyway?)

                                   

Keep in mind, less is more, and you will get through the transition – in style!   

We are now featuring Macy’s products on Workchic.com! What does that mean for you? More stylish suggestions for your work wardrobe, of course. Here are some of our favorite items you can wear now and wear later.

     

Wear this chic pencil skirt now with a floral cardigan, then when the weather warms up swap the cardigan for a flutter sleeve top.  For now we layered a embroidered scoopneck tank under the cardigan and paired the look with a Guess bracelet and Lucky goldtone earrings. We finished this business casual outfit with vibrant blue pumps.  For summer you can wear these chic pumps, but we also found a stylish alternative in a more neutral shade.  For more summer charm we added a statement necklace in mixed metals with a flower accent.  As you can see the gold earrings still work with this new ensemble. 

Spring Outfit includes: Alfani Skirt, Basic Pencil Side Zip, Charter Club Sweater, Floral Print Cardigan, Karen Scott Top, Embroidered Scoopneck Tank, GUESS Bracelet, Black and Blue Bangle, Lucky Brand Earrings, Goldtone Open Drop, Rampage Shoes, Nicki Pumps Women’s Shoes. 

Summer Outfit includes: Alfani Skirt, Basic Pencil Side Zip, Style&co. Top, Flutter Sleeve Floral Basketweave, Rachel Roy Shoes, Ellise Peep Toe Pumps Women’s Shoes, Jessica Simpson Necklace, Chrome and Goldtone Mixed Metal Flower

      

Some offices may be business casual now, but in summer they loosen their dress codes and allow more casual ensembles.  This tunic from Lucky Brand Jeans is very versatile. Wear it now in your business casual office with a twill khaki jacket and dark brown stretch trousers. These textured, machine washable trousers were featured in O, The Oprah Magazine. We finished the Spring business casual look with tan flats that have buckle details over the toe and fuchsia drop earrings.

When the temperatures rise and your office has more casual days, swap the trousers for a denim pencil skirt.  This topstitched peep toe wedge is the perfect blend of casual and sophisticated style. We finished the summer look with the same fuchsia earrings and a matching hobo bag for an extra pop of color.

Spring Business Casual Outfit: Lucky Brand Jeans Top, Nora Mixed Print Paisley Tunic, Tommy Hilfiger Jacket, Notch Collar, Rafaella Five-Pocket Stretch Trousers, CL by Laundry Shoes, Marque Flats Women’s Shoes Lucky Brand Earrings, Fuchsia Drop

Summer Casual Outfit: Lucky Brand Jeans Top, Nora Mixed Print Paisley Tunic, Lauren by Ralph Lauren Skirt, Lori Stretch Denim Pencil, Mia Shoes, Manchester Wedges Women’s Shoes, Lucky Brand Jeans Handbag, Brown Sugar Suede Hobo

We hope these outfits give you some great ideas on how to transition your work wardrobe from Spring to Summer. Recreate these Workchic looks yourself by clicking on the links above.  All products were found from the newest addition to Workchic, macys.com. Happy Shopping!