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May 18, 2010
Are you currently in the rut of dressing really casual? You don’t need to run out and buy a whole new wardrobe tomorrow. Take it one day or week at a time. These three changes will make the biggest impact with the smallest effort.
 
Shoes- swap sneaker or flip flops for a more tailored shoe. We chose Fabsy ballet flat from Nine West. It also comes in black and dark green for under $50.
 
Denim – leave the torn styles at home. Pick up a pair of dark wash jeans for the office. Gap Petite Womens Dark Perfect Boot Jeans (Dark Wash) also come in regular and tall sizes.
Accessorize – A basic t-shirt can be quickly woken up and an outfit pulled together with the right accessories. This Bloom Flower Necklace from Stella & Dot has the perfect feminine touch with a hand-painted floral clasp.
Have a casual office? Tell us how you keep your look professional even in casual denim.
April 23, 2010
January 15, 2010
Yes. That’s the quick answer. Your entire image is important. Neglecting one of these aspects sends a message that you may neglect other things in your life as well. This does not mean you need to purchase designer brands, just that these items should be as polished as the rest of your outfit.
Sometimes shoes just need a new heel or quick cleaning to make the grade. You also have to consider the details of the shoe itself. Is it casual or professional? With the abundance of fashion sneakers and ballet flats, the line can get wavy. Look for styles with a real sole. Avoid the rubber styling where it rounds over the toe or sides. These are usually too casual for a business casual office. Even heels can appear overly casual with decadent patterns or in the form of strappy sandals. We are big proponents of wearing shoes that are right for your lifestyle. Here are three different styles that all have professional appeal. Ballet Flats, heels, and wedges.
     
These ballet flats have a slight peep toe with sophisticated layers of brown suede and chocolate leather. A sleek pointed toe wedge is versatile. The heel on these is under 2″ making them comfortable enough for everyday. For added interest we went with a two tone pump in ivory and black as our last selection. Any of these styles will look polished and professional with your work wardrobe.
So you understand that you wear your shoes all day and they are important. But you stash your bag in your cubicle drawer and don’t understand who sees it. What about when you need to carry it into a meeting, attend lunch with your boss, or dash out to a networking event? These are three prime examples of when others will see it. Not to mention walking in and out of the office everyday.
If your lifestyle makes it difficult to change your bag to coordinate with your outfit, we recommend selecting styles that are more versatile. Of course black, brown, and red usually get all the attention here. But if you wear a lot of neutral shades olive may work great for you. Here are a few bags we recommend for everyday and just about any work related occasion.
    
If you need to carry your laptop on a daily basis, this leather tote is chic and professional. Grey is another great neutral and currently a trending color. In a classic satchel with leather trim it has sophisticated appeal. For a smaller option we went with a two tone shoulder bag. Subtle color variations give the bag depth while the overall styling is quite simple. These three styles were found at ebags.com. Shop eBags Overstock Sale – Extra 15% Off our Best Winter Deals! Hurry, Ends 1/18
Like you really need an excuse to shop for shoes and handbags! Take the time to evaluate how each style will fit into your work wardrobe and your lifestyle. Cosmetic bags making switching handbags easier if you prefer to have more unique styles. There are many different combinations that can make your look effortless and chic. Just remember, your handbags and shoes matter but they don’t have to match!
January 4, 2010
We’ve told you how we plan to help you jump start 2010 with chic style, top notch career advice, and even some life and nutrition tips. Now it’s time to dive in at the foundation- Your Basics!
These are the key building blocks of your professional wardrobe. Whether you have a last minute meeting or a hectic morning, with these pieces you will never have another “I have nothing to wear” moment. We’ve discussed some of these items in previous blog entries but here we will reiterate our top 10 must haves for your work wardrobe.
1- Black Pants
2- Solid Skirt
3- White Blouse
4- Fitted Blazer
5- Cardigan
6- Solid Dress
7- Black Shoes
8- White and Black Tshirt
9- Classic Watch
10- Tote Bag that will fit your resume
With these pieces alone you could make several outfits for the office. Here’s an example using your black A-line skirt, tshirt, cardigan, black heels, watch, and tote bag. You are instantly Workchic!
Styles shown from:
Jones New York: Black Ponte Belted Skirt, Ships 1/7 , The Ruffle Trim V Neck Cardigan in grey, White Solid Puff Sleeve Tee.
Nine West: Barbe pointed toe pump, Amelia Laptop Tote
Dillard’s: Emporio Armani Classic Black-Dial Watch
Now you can personalize this outfit with a statement necklace, chandelier earrings, or swap out the tshirt for a printed blouse. We pulled the Artemus Stone Necklace and Gemma Stone Earrings from Stella & Dot and also selected Hanii Y Brick Print Blouse as an unexpected alternative from shopbop.com .
To keep you moving in the right direction we have created 4 more looks building on your basics. Check them out and shop now for regular, petite, tall, or plus sizes.
For Petite ladies we started with a basic black dress and built up a business casual outfit from there. Fashion cardigans can be just as useful as your basics when pairing them with neutral colors. That’s why we selected the pop of pink to highlight this wrap dress. The delicate nature of this styling called for your basic black flats as well. Cluster drop earrings and Celtic knot inspired ring completes your simple and professional look.
Styles shown from:
The Limited: Draped Wrapped Dress , Grosgrain Flower Cardigan , Cluster Drop Earrings , Crazy Eight Ring
Heels.com: Tamia Flat – Black
For Plus Sizes we used your black blazer, pumps, and tote bag. For your personal touch of style, instead of a basic black dress we showcased one with a bold graphic print along the hem. To keep things office appropriate try a Second Base Demi-Cami underneath (newly available in plus sizes). Finish the look with teardrop earrings and black stud bracelet.
Styles shown from:
Lane Bryant: Black Knit Dress , Updated career jacket , Flame teardrop earrings
Dillard’s: Liz Claiborne New York Beaded Stretch Bracelet , Jessica Simpson “Josette” Peep Toe Pump , Fossil “Hathaway” Glazed Leather Tote 
For all you tall ladies, we understand your issues finding pants and shirts that are the right length. So that’s where we started with your outfit. We pulled black pants and a white dress shirt to lay the foundation. Then we added on a pink cotton scarf from Silk Road Spirit, skinny belt, and copper bracelet. To finish the look we pulled back in your basic black flats.
Styles shown from:
Banana Republic: Banana Republic Womens Silky Coal Martin Skinny Pant , Banana Republic Tall french cuff shirt , Banana Republic Skinny stone-belt , Banana Republic Sandie knotted peep toe flat
Dillard’s: Fossil Stretch Bracelet
As you can see having these core pieces in your wardrobe make building outfits easier and more fun. After all, accessories always look best glinting off a simple palette. We want you to feel comfortable and confident in your clothing. It should be an afterthought once you walk out the door. Take one last look in the mirror then get down to business. Stay tuned while we turn some or our focus to your successful career.
November 18, 2009
Gap.com is a great source for business casual sweaters, pants, and more. For a limited time only! Get 25% off regularly priced Gap merchandise. Enter GIFT123 at check out. Shop now while supplies last!
We selected some of the best styles to create chic business casual looks to carry you stylishly through the winter.
This colorblocked cardigan can stand on it’s own or stand out with a scarf highlighted in hot pink. Finish the look with black wide leg trousers and pointed toe ballet flats.
Women: Colorblock cardigan – heather gray
Women: Wide leg trousers – true black
Women: Striped scarf – comet blue
Women: Sparkle flats – caviar
Feminize a military jacket with subtle ruffle trim then up the volume in a textured blouse. We paired this with denim trousers. This outfit is ideal for a business casual office, if you have a meeting on a casual Friday. You’ll still be in denim like your coworkers, but you’ll be dressed to present. Red duffle bag is an unexpected pop of color and can have you ready for the weekend.
Women: Ruffle-trimmed military jacket – charcoal
Women: Ribbon-trim textured-stripe shirt – optic white
Women: Hip-slung flare leg denim trousers – denim
Women: Wool-blend duffle bag – cinnabar red
Shop now before coupon expires on November 22nd. Use coupon code GIFT23 at check out and save 25%. Happy Shopping!
October 12, 2009
As we discuss updating your basics, one area we must touch on is black shoes. After a little shopping this weekend we were very inspired to discuss the subject. Depending on your lifestyle, this may be a ballet flat or a 3″ stiletto. In our book it’s one of each. Check out our post on Polyvore to see how to work black shoes into your work wardrobe. Plus we’ve selected some of our favorite styles under $100 from Piperlime so you can start shopping today!
   
Very classic styles do not have any embellishments on them. They can be round or pointed toe, thick or thin heel, no heel at all, or anything in-between. Some styles we love in this category are:
Pointed Toe: Women’s shoes/bags: Enzo Angiolini Natia – Black $89
Rounded Toe: Women’s shoes/bags: Jessica Simpson Jessica – Black leather $69
Ballet Flat: Women’s shoes/bags: Kenneth Cole Reaction Slip On By – Black patent $59
  
  
Your go-to black shoe does not need to be as simple as our first three options. It all depends on your personal style. We love peep-toes, buckles, stitching, ruffles, and charms to liven up our favorite shoes. These added accessories do not mean we wear them less. In fact, we probably wear them more because they are so fun.
Women’s shoes/bags: Nine West Namely – Black $79
Women’s shoes/bags: Naturalizer Hilary – Black $75
Women’s shoes/bags: Two Lips Parker – Black $80
Women’s shoes/bags: Enzo Angiolini Rubies – Black $89
Women’s shoes/bags: AK Anne Klein Wake – Black suede $89
Women’s shoes/bags: Seychelles Runway – Black $80
Any of these styles will easily update your work wardrobe and make getting dressed that much simpler in the morning. While we had fun looking at different styles and creating outfits on Polyvore, these shoes really are a basic. You may be tempted to pick them up in red, silver, or a fun animal print- today let’s stick to the basics. Make sure you have this area covered and then start shopping for the extras.
View ‘Updated Basics’ on Polyvore9xp3c8zia2
August 31, 2009
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.
August 4, 2009
We have recently been introduced to Fit In Clouds a mini-line of fold-up, portable flats. They are a stylish alternative to sneakers, flip flops, or other comfortable shoes. Nothing ruins an outfit like an ugly pair of sneakers, but can women be expected to traipse around town in 3″ pumps all day? Try commuting in Clouds instead!
Fit in Clouds fold up to be slightly larger than an iPhone, and have their own portable pouch. They easily fit in most handbags. You tote around an umbrella just in case of rain- why not have a comfortable pair of shoes on hand? At the end of a long workday, simply remove your heels and slip on your Clouds. They look like ballet flats and come in black, gold, and pink and feature a thick, rubber sole for comfort and protection.
You can pick up your own Clouds for $18.95 at fitinclouds.com. Shop now and receive 10% off your order. Enter the code ‘ILOVECLOUDS’ at checkout, under the summary tab, to receive the discount.
Shoes are currently available in Small, Medium, and Large sizes with Extra Large coming soon. There are no shipping charges in the US or Canada. So what are you waiting for? Toss the flip flops and buy your Clouds now!
July 29, 2009
Sydne Summer is the author of Think Thru Fashion, a blog dedicated to smart styling for today. She breaks down the trends and shows women simple ways to incorporate them into their existing wardrobes. One of our favorite segments is One Item/Different Lookswhere Sydne takes one item out of her closet and shows 4-6 different ways of wearing it. This is truly a great way to reinvent your look. Since she obviously has amazing style herself we want you to Steal her Style!
 
Her first outfit is complete with a Theory pencil skirt, Forever 21 v-neck tee, Forever 21 necklace, and Prada pumps
Sydne’s take on this simple chic look, ”I think every working woman should own a black pencil skirt. I wear mine with silk blouses in a more business setting and with v-neck tees in a more business casual setting. I’ve worn a white t-shirt and black skirt for years now, but make it look different every time with seasonal necklaces. Right now I’m really into colorful bib necklaces. Last season, I wore this outfit with layered, rocker chic chains. For winter, the skirt looks great with a belted boyfriend cardigan and black tights.”
Her second outfit starts with a Vince floral dress and is accessorized with Hyde Collection bow belt, BCBG cardigan, Calvin Klein pumps. ”I love to bring color into the work place. Life would be boring if it was always black, white and gray. I just bought this feminine chiffon dress on sale at Saks and plan to mix it up with different color cardigans. I have a similar one in more jewel tone colors that I wore last fall with black tights, booties, black motorcycle boots and leather jackets. It was fun to mix such a lady-like piece with edgy accessories but this summer I’ve been sticking to a more garden party look. When I take off the cardigan, this dress works great for a date or an early evening fashion event,” she says.
We asked Sydne a few more questions about her style to help you recreate it with ease.
1- Describe your office’s dress code:
I work in entertainment. And it’s California, the land of casual. So basically anything goes. Some people show up to work in jeans and flip-flops while others look like they stepped off a J. Crew catalog.
Overall, people’s style ranges from casual to business casual. The only people in the building dressed in business attire are the lawyers!
2- Working in a fashionable environment, What steps do you take to maintain your professional image?
I always make sure I look put together. Even though I can dress casual, I prefer to dress up a little more than others. I’m not a morning person, so I usually plan outfits for the week on Sundays. I might change my mind in the morning but at least if I press the snooze button too many times, I already have a chic ensemble planned, and I don’t have to waste time searching through my closet. “I had nothing to wear” is not a good excuse for showing up late to work.
3- What style advice would you give to a young fashionista starting her first job?
First impression really is everything. But I know when I started out I was so confused on what I should be wearing that I lost sleep over it. The first day of work, I suggest sticking to the conservative side. Of course, you want to be fashionable but you don’t always want to be known as that girl in the hot pink dress. My first day I kept it simple in a black top and black skirt, but made a statement with stylish red shoes. If I had to do it again, I’d wear the exact same outfit. Once you’re there for a few weeks, you’ll start to understand the office dress code. Again, my rule of thumb is a little dressier is always better than a little too casual. And just like in grade school, if everyone else is doing it, it doesn’t mean you have to. Since I work in entertainment, mini skirts are perfectly acceptable—as are supershort shorts. But that’s not the image I ever wanted to project. So while other girls my age wore what I used to wear in college, I went for a more sophisticated look. It paid off. I got a promotion in four months.
We have to say congratulations to Sydne on her quick promotion! We love to hear those type of stories and hope that it encourages you to take a second look at your professional image. Also, hopefully you picked up on the pre-planning your outfits tip. This is a great idea for anyone strapped for time. Now, let’s Steal her Style! Here are a few more of her tips along with some styles she loves.
Sydne says, “I love tucking ruffled blouses into pencil skirts. When I’m wearing jeans, I tend to go for looser tops and cardigans, or a belted top to show off my waist.”
     
“I think every working woman should own a black pencil skirt. They can be dressed up or down and look good whether you’re curvy or a toothpick. But I also love graphic swing skirts. I wear them with t-shirts and high-heels and feel just like Carrie Bradshaw. While I love my distressed denim, I usually stick to darker washes for work. They just look more professional. I tuck tops into my bootcut jeans and wear my skinny jeans with boyfriend cardigans and ballet flats. And I probably wear my skinny black pants every other week. They look great with flats or heels.”
     
“You can re-wear a simple black dress every week and nobody will notice as long as you switch up the accessories. I recycle mine but styling it with cardigans, brooches, statement necklaces and cool belts. Shift dresses are also ideal if you need to go straight from work to a function or a date. You can never go wrong with a wrap dress. It flatters everyone! If the neckline is too deep, add a button or layer with a cami in a contrasting color.”
    
      
“Statement necklaces and pendants are the easiest way to update a dress or top. And I always use belts over dresses, cardigans, and tops to create womanly curves. It’s an appropriate way of being sexy at the office.”
   
“I’m short, so you’ll usually find me in a pair of heels. But I do try to wear ballet flats at least once a week so I don’t kill my feet. I go for a nude color to elongate my legs.”
     
Sydne runs Think Thru Fashion and is a Fashion Editor at MyStyle.com. If she can keep her look professional, feminine, and chic with all that on her plate- the rest of us have no excuse!
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