Chic tops have maximum impact on your business casual style. We’ve found styles for less than $40 each that will wake up your work wardrobe for Spring.

Details that highlight your neckline bring attention to your face and layer nicely under blazers and cardigans. Chiffon Tips Top is soft with an abstract print on the pieced neckline. Available from The Limited for $34.50.  Banana Republic Silk tiered blouse is an artistic display of tiered silk layers creating beautiful dimension for $34.99.

Prints are an easy update. We took it a step further with a pleated neckline like this Printed Folded Neckline Top for $39.50.  While The Madison Stretch Shirt is a classic silhouette updated with an abstract floral print, currently on sale for $14.99.

The new LC Lauren Conrad collection from Kohls.com has a few pieces we love.  They are regularly under $40 but currently on sale for less than $25 each. Floral Peasant Top, $21.99, can be paired with charcoal trousers and wedges for a chic business casual look. Ivory Floral Top is how you do graphic prints in the office! Wear this style, also $21.99, with black pants and a cardigan in your favorite color.

Each of these tops will update your work wardrobe with style. They are high impact and low cost solutions to reveal your personal style within a business casual dress code.  Have fun selecting your new tops for Spring.  Look for pieces that you can easily layer under blazers when you need your look to be more professional. Happy Shopping!

As an entrepreneur, you may not have the typical office. Today we are going to show you a few looks that will take you from the coffeehouse to a big corporate pitch in style. There are two pieces of advice we repeat on a regular basis. One is, dress for the job you want. The second applies to you even more; you never know who will behind you in line at Starbucks. Following this stream of thought, it’s important to always dress in a way that best represents your brand. Keep reading to find our suggestions for Workchic Entrepreneurial looks.

To create a Coffeehouse Chic look we combined elements from both casual and business casual offices. By starting with trouser style denim you maintain a casual atmosphere about yourself. The printed tunic continues this feel, yet we reign it in with a safari inspired jacket. Tailored sandals aid in balancing the look while a golden yellow laptop tote adds another touch of personal style. Have fun with a chunky embroidered cuff and chandelier earrings.

Banana Republic Dark wash trouser jean
Sheer Print Tunic
Banana Republic Safari shirt jacket
Banana Republic Ramona strappy high heel platform
Moonsus Cosmopolitan Laptop Satchel
Stella & Dot Nadia Embroidered Cuff
Stella & Dot Garden Party Chandelier Earring
 

We love a chic dress for lunch with clients. It’s easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion. A style like this Anne Klein wrap dress has a simple sophistication. This wedge shoe has an architectural grace that compliments the geometric print in the dress. We also recommend keeping a structured tote bag on hand. This ensures you always have room for important documents. Our selection of a warm grey linear tote is versatile and less cumbersome. Of course this outfit needed some pops of color to make sure you are the center of attention. To achieve this we added a coral glass bead necklace with removable brooch, hinged bracelet, and simple hoop earrings.

Printed Wrap Dress
Banana Republic Renee peep-toe wedge
Jessica Jensen Linear Tote
Stella & Dot Boca Necklace with Bee Brooch
Kenneth Jay Lane Enamel Hinged Bracelet
Diaz, Hoop Earring, Ships 3/8
 

The Big Pitch is an important milestone for your business. Dress the part! Since we are going into Spring, we love the idea of a neutral business suit. This style has a subtle herringbone texture and will stand out against the sea of navy and black. We kept the blouse simple and made a statement with a silk abstract print scarf in shades of aqua and yellow.

Two Tone Herringbone Stripe Jacket
Two Tone Herringbone Striped Pant
Banana Republic Petite french cuff shirt
Banana Republic Silk-blend abstract-print scarf
Marietta Camel Pumps
Sage, Button Post Earring

From each of these looks apply the parts that make the most sense for you and your business. For example, if you’re pitching a new shoe company you better being wearing those shoes! If on the other hand your business is in finance, you may always need to wear more tailored and professional outfits. Make sure you represent your brand and can pitch in every outfit you walk out of the house in. Good luck in your endeavors and remember to keep it Workchic!

Throughout fashion week we wrote alot about mixing different patterns and textures into one outfit. Today we want to show you how to make this trend work for the office. 

Monochromatic colors make mixing patterns simple. In this business casual style outfit we kept the palette to neutral shades and lavender. Together these soft tones allow a bold plaid pattern to look chic against a floral blouse. Since the pencil skirt and boyfriend cardigan are classic silhouettes, we were also able to play with ruffle accents on the blouse and t-strap pumps without overwhelming the outfit. All pieces used to create this outfit were found at Banana Republic and Dillard’s. Follow the below links to recreate this look.

Banana Republic Cotton/silk ruffle printed blouse
Antonio Melani “Berta” Skirt
Banana Republic Sweetheart exposed-seam cardi
Gianni Bini “Razzle”
Banana Republic Rose dew hinge bracelet
 

Mix Floral and Stripes for a chic and fresh business casual look. Stripes do not need to be bold- we used a classic pinstripe trouser in this example. Then we layered a vintage inspired floral tank and cardigan with rosette details along the neckline to mix both pattern and texture. The accessories are simple and sophisticated. This allows your experiment in pattern to get all the attention.  We turned to Lord & Taylor and Modcloth for the push and pull of vintage and classic happening in this look. These links will take you to each piece used to create the look.

CALVIN KLEIN Madison Pinstriped Pants
SWEATERWORKS Rosette Detail Cardigan
Morisot Top
COLE HAAN “Village Soft” North/South Satchel
ARTURO CHIANG “Driane” Peep-Toe Patent Leather Stiletto Pumps
AK ANNE KLEIN Goldtone Circle Link Stretch Bracelet
Edie Earrings in Socialite
 

Fossil.com shows us how to make bold and graphic patterns combine for a casual day in the office. Here polka dots are the focus in a yellow cardigan. Layered underneath is a simple yet graphic gingham plaid. These patterns are tied together with white so we added a white belt to compliment the look. Wearing it around your waist will slim the silhouette against flare leg denim. For a final touch we pulled a patterned crossbody bag and deep cocoa wedges.

Fossil Iris Cardigan
Fossil Lucy Shirt
Fossil Center Cording Belt
Fossil Flare Denim
Fossil Maddox Wedge Pump

When mixing patterns into one outfit the key is to watch the balance. Make sure colors play harmoniously and that silhouettes are simple. For the office, anchor your look in a classic style such as a pinstripe trouser. You’ll notice we completed each of these outfits with a cardigan. It’s a work wardrobe staple and adds a touch of professionalism by covering up bare arms. The more contemporary your office the more you can push trends in print and pattern. We encourage you to use this daring trend to showcase your personal style. Follow our tips to keep your look professional, feminine, and chic. Happy Shopping!

We love New York Fashion Week but sometimes you just need a break, or a reality check. So we’re bringing you two outfits each under $100.  Even better, you can mix and match the pieces to save even more.

With a dress from The Limited, accessories from Charlotte Russe, and your favorite basic black pumps you’ll have a Workchic look without breaking the bank. Our total for this business casual outfit is $94.68.
The Limited Shaped Ruffle Shirtdress for $53.70
Charlotte Russe: Offset Buckle Belt $12.99, Textured Patent Hobo $19.99, and Filigree Flower Earrings $4, Mixed Bangle Set $4.

We took the red hobo bag and double buckle belt to create one more outfit for Casual Friday. We recommend pairing this with your favorite dark wash denim. Wrap the cardigan and belt at your natural waist.  We even found an amazing peep toe pump in case you forgot to update your basics. This outfit totals $96.16.
Charlotte Russe: Offset Buckle Belt $12.99, Textured Patent Hobo $19.99, Open Front Drape Cardigan $17.99, Scoop Neck Cami + Shelf Bra $7.50, Pearl & Rhinestone Layered Necklace $7.99
Endless.com: Liliana Women’s Cord Open-Toe Pump for $29.70.

While some may say we cheated by leaving the shoes out of the first outfit and jeans out of the second, these are two items you should have in your wardrobe already. Plus we multi-purposed two of the items for each outfit. That ought to get us off the hook. We hope you enjoyed this small fashion week break. We are headed back to the Runway!

Workchic Suit of the week returns!  This week we chose a great suit for those professionals out there.  It is a way to appear professional  at work while letting your fun personality shine through.

We love the notch collar detail  and the fact you can easily dress it up or down by adding feminine heels and a tie neck blouse in a pop color.  You can mix and match the jacket and pants with other pieces in your wardrobe.  What would you add to this outfit?  We would love to hear from you.  Just leave a comment below or send us an info@workchic.com!

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.

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!

Everywhere you turn, plaid shirts are making a come back. Buffalo style flannels are topping the list, but plaids in all shapes and sizes are resurfacing. How can you translate this look into your fall work wardrobe? We looked for styles with more feminine silhouettes and recommend layering so they are not the focal point of your look.

Some styles like Charlotte Russe Plaid Ruffle Blouse or Banana Republic Women: Long-sleeve plaid ruffle shirt - Carob chip will look great on there own.  You can work these in with your denim on casual days or dress them up with a skirt for business casual.

For a more sophisticated take on plaid try  Women: Cap-sleeve printed top - Sidewalk gray or Jessica Howard Belted Dress. Each of these styles still clearly have a plaid pattern but the overall effect is more subtle.

When it comes to layering you have two choices. Either make a plaid jacket the focal point with something simple underneath or use a cardigan to play down a bold plaid shirt. Portrait-Collar Plaid Jacket will get all the attention over simple black trousers. A Mike & Chris Joplin Plaid Button Down Shirt with Tie will layer nicely under a Women: Italian merino cardigan - Dark blue. Either options will leave you looking Workchic!

You can embrace plaid within your work wardrobe. We hope this encourages you take the plunge.  If you have questions about incorporating a trend into your work wardrobe, email us info@workchic.com.

Having a few White Blouses in your wardrobe is very important. They can easily be layered under blazers or sweaters and also look polished by themselves.  Considered a basic item in your work wardrobe, a crisp white button down, can be a go-to item when you are not sure what to wear for the office.  We went shopping for you and picked out a few favorites at different size ranges.

Available in regular, petite, and tall sizes; Women: White stretch fitted shirt - optic white; is available for $44 at Gap.com.

For a more fitted option, New York & Company Women’s Design House Denim Ruched White Shirt - Optic White, available in sizes XS-XL, is a nice alternative in the same price range for $44.95.

This blouse from Lane Bryant has a subtle shadow striping. Pick up Textured sateen finish shirt for $39.50.

Once you have incorporated a good basic style, try picking up a second blouse that has an extra detail you just love. Antonio Melani “Betta” Blousehas both tuxedo details and french cuffs. We found this style at Dillard’s currently on sale for $65.40.

Not sure how to put together Workchic looks with your new white blouse? We created outfits on Polyvore.com to show you how. Check out our business casual looks and learn how to adjust them to more business or casual offices as well.

Stay tuned as we continue to help you update your basics every other Monday throughout the fall complete with inspiring outfits created on Polyvore.

Soft and feminine florals are easy to pull off in the Spring. Keep this trend fresh during fall months too!  Look for patterns in long sleeve blouses or wear layers over you favorite Summer pieces. 

Some patterns have more of a fall color story then others. If you are shopping now, look for dusty tones and less tropical florals like these two dresses from Modcloth.com. The Phipps Dress has bold color impact but is toned down with purple hues. Pair with a light tan jacket for the office. Our second dress, Spring Benefit Dress,also plays up lavender shades and then grounds them in black. Pair this with opaque tights and heels for the season and finish the look with a belted cardigan for your business casual office.

Some prints hint at floral without a full on garden scene. For example, this Printed Petite Blousefrom TheLimited.com has abstract brush strokes that could easily be interpreted into flowers. We also found a great blouse to layer under you suits. You can imagine painted daffodils poking out from the release pleats in the sparkling midnight print on this Pleat Neckline Top.

Styles from ShopBop.com may be a little more of a splurge, but now that you know how to make florals season-less, we thought they were worth a peek. Catherine Malandrino Belted Floral Dressis so classic and chic it can be worn for years. Belting the dolman sleeve silk dress gives it a flattering shape.  Another way to embrace floral is with your accessories.  Felix Rey Zip Top Flower Clutch is fun for more casual days in the office. Or just keep it in your tote for a little pop when you run out for coffee.

To help bring these styles into fall- add layers. They will keep you warm and add professionalism to your look. We have lots of jackets and cardigans available on the site. You can shop these great stores and more all in one place. Look for more of our tips on transitioning your wardrobe into fall.  If you have questions, send them to info@workchic.com today!