We all know the importance of those go-to black pants. What we also all know is, sometimes they can be impossible to find. Melissa and I have been struggling with these ourselves lately. Sometimes you try on 20 pairs and don’t find a single one that fits!

So what’s the solution? And how can you make shopping for the perfect black pants easier online? We have a few suggestions.

The first step is to identify which fit is most flattering on you.

We find a boot cut or straight leg to be the most universally flattering. You want a nice line falling from the hips. A flare will work better with heels then flats. Wide and skinny legs can look trendier. If you like either of these looks, we recommend having them as an option and also having a more traditional cut to balance your selection. This way you won’t be limited in the morning to blouses that work with those styles.

Secondly, know your size. We have created a universal fit chart to help guide you in the right direction. Since each brand cultivates their own measurements, we’ve also provided quick links to some of our stores. You will find more companies publishing not only their fit charts, but also garment measurements, customers review on fit, and even tell you what size the model is wearing. Tobi is a great example of a website giving you all this info and more. We found these Theory Max C Trousers that come in black as well.

Third, consider the fabric options. Do you want wool lined pants, or summer weight cotton? This will also affect the fit. A lined pant tends to smooth and shape, but will also be more costly to tailor. A lighter weight or fitted style with stretch worn to tightly can show details you may not want your co-workers to see. You may need to adjust your sizing to avoid any mishaps. Dressy Stretch Bootleg Trouser from Jones New York has a contoured waistband for optimal fit. You can also reference a fabric glossary on their site to help you make your purchasing decision.

Armed with this information you can quickly eliminate those styles that will not be right for you. Then it’s time to go shopping. Here are a few styles we love in different categories and fits.

Petite
Banana Republic Womens Black Petite 215 Martin Classic Trouser Pant

Plus
Lane Bryant Right Fit Lafayette pant

Tall
New York & Company Women’s Brown, Red 7th Avenue Bootcut Pants - Tall

For more Workchic styles visit our pants section and sort by price, office environment and size to find your perfect style. Stay tuned for more tips on utilizing your basics to create chic outfits for your office.

We all have our days. Sometimes you don’t want to get out of bed, let alone dress to impress. We understand. That’s what we’re here for- to take the stress out of getting dressed for work. Even when you don’t want to put in the effort to look presentable, you should have a couple of simple outfits that always look polished and chic. After all, you never know who will be standing behind you in the line at Starbucks.

So how do you achieve truly effortless style? It comes back to your basics. They will be a lifesaver time and again, even if you are running late to the office.

One of our favorites is the little black dress, always classic, always chic. And it’s one piece! It doesn’t get much easier then that! All you need is shoes, maybe a necklace, grab your favorite bag and you can leave the house.

Not a fan of all black? A printed dress can have the same impact without even adding accessories.

For another last minute option, you should always have a pair of black pants ready. They go with just about anything. If you’re truly having a bad start to your day, shimmy into these pants. Then we have two options for cheering yourself up so you can start your day with confidence. Our first choice would be to wear your absolute favorite shirt (graphic tees do not apply) under a blazer to add a bit of professionalism. Option two is a basic blouse or tee and pile on the necklaces. A little glitz is sure to wake you up. Again a blazer or cardigan can take this look from casual to office appropriate in the blink of an eye.

Don’t let running late ruin your day. Instead try one of these simple suggestions to turn your morning around. Presenting yourself professionally is always important. It will also lift your spirits so you are more prepared to take on the day. This month we have focused on ways you can reinvent yourself the Workchic way. Don’t let one hectic morning come between you and your Workchic style. Organize your closet so that these outfits are ready and waiting for you.  Good Luck and Happy Shopping!

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.

Over the last couple of months we have talked about updating your basics and building a solid foundation for your work wardrobe. With the holidays upon us, we are going to give you a break for a couple of weeks. First, we want to look back at the five key pieces we have updated and put together a few more chic outfits with fun accessories.

LBD too Red by Workchic featuring Banana Republic

We showed you the black wrap dress and rounded toe pumps previously. Add some color with a Second Base demi-cami in a vibrant scarlet that’s carried into the earrings. The crystal rings in this bracelet from Heart’s Desire will pull any color in the rainbow. Let it play red today and look brand new tomorrow against something blue. Together these pieces will update your classic LBD and make it seasonally fresh.

Basics Combine by Workchic featuring Banana Republic

Our second look contains a blouse, skirt, cardigan, and ballet flats we’ve shown you before. But did you ever think about putting them together? Don’t worry, we did it for you. Then warmed it up with a colorful scarf from Silk Road Spirit. Together or separate these pieces are classically feminine and chic.

Did you miss any of the fun. You can go back and check out our post on Cardigans, Skirts, Black Shoes, White Blouses, or Classic LBD’s at any time. After the holidays we will return with tailored blazers, black trousers, and more key items to round out your perfect, professional wardrobe. 

We use Polyvore to help us organize these looks to share with you. You can check out more of our Polyvore outfits and start creating some of your own by visiting Polyvore.com today!

Having a great neutral skirt in your basic work wardrobe is important. Notice we didn’t say black, this skirt should be in a solid color that will mix and match into your existing closet. Some colors to consider are tan, brown, navy, charcoal, and of course black.  We have discussed in other blog posts the best skirts to fit your figure.  You should also consider the types of tops you have on hand when you pick out your basic. To get you inspired we have put together some outfits on Polyvore.  Then we went shopping and found you the best basic skirts to add to your wardrobe today.

Banana Republic Women: Wool-blend textured pencil skirt - Carob chip $90, available in regular, petite, and tall sizes.
Old Navy Women: Women’s Essential Pencil Skirt - New Black $29.50 available in regular, petite, and tall sizes plus also in grey and dark brown.

At Dillard’s Alex Marie “Jamie” Skirt, $89 and Westbound Gored Skirt in Navy, Chocolate, or Black for $30

For Plus size options we turned to Lane Bryant.
Belt trimmed skirt, $49.50

High-low hem skirt, $49.50

Any of these skirts will make a beautiful update to your work wardrobe. Stay tuned to Workchic.com to learn about creating a solid foundation in your closet to build remarkable outfits around.

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. 

Whenever you set out to build something it is always important to start with a strong foundation. This goes for your work wardrobe as well. Without sturdy building blocks you cannot create a stable and professional look. 

We think Fall is the perfect time to take a look at your wardrobe and make sure you have all the right pieces to build around.  You will be putting away your flimsy summer clothes and relying on more durable styles. Over the next two weeks we’d like you to take a look at styles you would consider the basics of your wardrobe. What shape are they in? Make sure they still fit, the hems are intact, and none of your buttons are missing.  Have any blemishes repaired.  These are the go to pieces in your wardrobe, they need to be ready!

What do we consider basics?  Black is generally considered a core basic in almost any article of clothing. We want you to take a look at the colors in your wardrobe and identify the best neutral shades to compliment your wardrobe.  This may be brown, charcoal, or even olive.  Here are some more items we will be covering over the coming months.

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
To name a few of the looks we will be reviewing.

We will be showing you styles by size and highlight unique details to make your basics feel special. We will also work with Polyvore to show you how important basics are to making your outfits simple and chic. For example, this outfit utilizes your black pants, white blouse, and cardigan. Then popped the look with shoes and jewelry.

Classic Business Casual by Workchic featuring Antica Murrina jewelry

Ready to take initiative and put your best shoe forward? We are here to help. Keep an eye out for our bi-monthly post on updating your basics.  If you have questions send them to info@workchic.com. We also have our Fitting Room Series every Friday to help you find the right silhouettes.  So stay tuned and start sorting out your closet.

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.

We received a question from one of our readers asking; “Is it ok to wear black slacks in the summer? What should I watch out for?”

Kim, it is absolutely ok to wear black pants in the summer months! This is a work wardrobe staple no matter what season we are in.  To help you keep your wardrobe fresh, we have selected the following lightweight styles ideal for hot days.

Summer wool or light weight wool is a great place to start. These styles are worth splurging on because they will hold up for many season’s to come.  Ideally lining should only go to the knee and be in rayon not polyester. The first pair we found is from Brooks Brothers available in regular and Petite Plain-Front Caroline Fit Gabardine Dress Trousers. They are $148 or 2 for $249. Pick up a pair in black and khaki today.  At Dillard’s we found a wool/Lycra blend from Anne Klein New York in a boot-cut fit.  Women: Jackson lightweight wool wide-leg pant - Black is at Banana Republic available for $98.  This style comes in regular, petite, and tall sizes.  All three of these styles are in light weight wool and are an ideal addition to your summer work wardrobe.

Cotton and Linen are more natural fibers ideal for summer. We went to Gap for these Women: Curvy flare leg pants - true black. They are a cotton/spandex blend sold for $54.50 and come in different lengths plus petite and tall sizes.  Old Navy also has these different sizes available in Women: Women’s Cotton Twill Wide-Leg Trousers - New Black for only $32.50. Our last style was found at SmartBargains.com, it’s an Elie Tahari Black Stretch Linen Pant on sale for $59.98. Shop these cotton and linen styles for smart business casual summer looks.

Lastly we found some capris to help you finish out the summer in comfort and style. Banana Republic Women: Martin slim ankle pant - Black comes in regular and petite sizes for $59.50.  This style is machine washable in a cotton/spandex blend. Vince Pleated Cropped Pants, have a button-tab detail with gathers at the hem creating a chic and trendy pegged leg without sacrificing professional style.  They are currently on sale for $115.50.  For casual days at the office, try Women: Black cropped skinny riding jeans - black from Gap.

Remember, black pants are a basic which means then can and should be worn year around. Especially to the office where this work wardrobe classic really makes a polished statement.  Shop our top picks in wool, linen, and cotton now!

It’s rare these days that women wear actual slips, but it’s still good to have a couple in your closet. So when we received the question, “Where can a girl find nice slips and camis? I can’t find good ones anywhere!”, we knew we needed to find some answers.

For slips we turned to Lord & Taylor. All three of these styles are available in black and nude.  The first is a SPANX Hide & Sleek Full Slip, the second is very simple and versatile from FARR WEST, the third has a pretty Vintage feeling and is a bit longer. 

We have lots of cami’s on the site for layering under dresses and cardigans.  These are generally the kind you want to show.  What about under more sheer blouses? Try one of these camisoles out.  The first, Turn-Me-Around Camisole, is reversible front to back depending on the neckline of your shirt. The second Yummie Tummie Tank has a satin trim, tummy control, and wicking technology to keep you cool in the summer heat. The last option we found from Modern Movement has a full built in bra allowing you to wear less layers.

These are the type of pieces you should include in your basics.  Have them on hand because you never know when you are going to pick up a beautiful dress or blouse without realizing just how sheer it is.  Don’t let that piece hang in your closet unworn because you don’t have anything to layer underneath it.

Do you have questions for the Workchic team? Send them to info@workchic.com to get some answers.