Are you Trendsetting Chic like Carrie? Business Chic like Miranda? Girly Chic like Charlotte? Or Sexy Chic like Samantha?

At Workchic.com we are big fans of business chic style. So we shopped Miranda’s Collection for the best heels to rock in the office.

Sex and the City 2! Shop Miranda’s Sophisticated Business style at Heels.com!

What’s Your “Sex and the City” Style? Find out at Heels.com!

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!

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.

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. 

Whether you prefer flats, heels, sandals, or wedges when you head into the office- we scoured some of our favorite on-line shops and found them on sale for you!

At Piperlime we found Dainty Wanted heels for $24.99, Lovely People flats on sale for $49.99, and Seychelles sandals for $74.99. The styles and colors of these shoes will look chic now and are an investment for the fall.

At www.endless.com we found N.Y.L.A wedges for $61.69, Charles David Classic Pump $96.68, and this Bronx Cody woven loafer for $38.

At www.Heels.comwe found red ballet flats with perforated bow detail over the toe for $49.99, simple summer sandals for $49.99, and neutral t-straps for $48.49.

Shop the sales now and stock up on some fun shoes for your work wardrobe!

We were featured on The Style Network’s Site, MyStyle.com. Read mystyle: workchic, and learn some of our style secrets.  We recommend two favorite items to pick up for a splurge or a steal, where to buy chic yet practical heels, and a few more tips and tricks you probably haven’t heard from us yet.

While at MyStyle.com you can also take the What’s My Style Quiz?, learn more about shows like Running in Heels, and take a style test drive with Product Reviews.

So go check out our article, mystyle: workchic, and learn our secrets! 

Summer does not make wearing suits a whole lot of fun. Unfortunatly most days this is your required ensemble. Don’t worry cooler fall temps are right around the corner; but for now we need to get you into Workchic Summer suits. Lawyers, legal aids, and even judges are required to keep a business professional demeanor in and out of the courtroom.

When you think of wool, you usually think winter. Wool is a natural fiber and will breathe better then synthetics in hot temperatures. Plus it will keep you comfortable if you are in a room with heavy air conditioning.  Look for suits in light weight wool for the summer months.  This style from Charles Tyrwhitt has a traditional pinstripe on light grey. The pants are only lined to the knee for added breath-ability.  Soft Pink gives some subtle color to a grey suit. This style from Thomas Pink has three quarter sleeves so that it is still professional if you take off your jacket, yet cooler with it on.  We finished the look with an Anne Klein pointed toe pump and simple silver jewelery.

Light Grey Stripe Lightweight Wool Trouser
Light Grey Stripe Lightweight Wool Jacket
Pink Strada Plain Women's 3/4 Length Sleeve Shirt
Women’s shoes: AK Anne Klein Christa – Black leather
Sterling Silver Fancy Oval Links Necklace – 17
Kenneth Cole New York KC4497 (Women’s) – Stainless Steel/Natural

Another great fabric in the summer is cotton. Again this is a natural fiber. Most styles that you find will be blended to improve the structure and hand of the garment. The style we found at Banana Republic is Cotton/Rayon/Spandex.  We like the moonlight shade as opposed to white or khaki. Offsetting the light color with a deep plum blouse gives the suit dimension.  We kept the belt and shoes in neutral shades and picked the plum back up in a structured tapestry tote for holding important paperwork.

Women: Sleek flap-pocket blazer – Moonlight
Women: 718 Martin sleek straight pant – Moonlight
Women: Linen/cotton embroidered blouse – Black raspberry
Women’s Merona Trouser Buckle Belt – Tan
Bandolino Women’s Jaelle Detailed Sling
Women’s handbags: 7 For All Mankind Malabo Tote – Berry

If you have any casual days in the office, this probably actually means business casual. We still would not pull out blue jeans. Try a nice pencil skirt and ruffled blouse instead.  This skirt has a sophisticated herringbone pattern. To give the neutral outfit some personal style we added a satchel with woven salmon sides and multi colored clover bracelet.

Antonio Melani “Ramsey” Pencil Skirt
ABS by Allen Schwartz Ruffled Blouse

Charles By Charles David Women’s Pompadour Pump
Women’s handbags: 7 For All Mankind Leather Link Satchel – salmon/khaki
Liz Claiborne New York Wide Bangle Bracelet

Liz Claiborne New York Interlock Earrings

Working in a law firm and looking Workchic, no problem! You have all the tools you need to dress to impress this summer. Remember natural fibers will be more comfortable and keep you cool in heated situations.

We received a tweet this week from one of our twitter friends that she almost missed her train trying to find an outfit that would look professional during the day and still fun for drinks at night. To help her and you out we are going to answer the question:

How do I go from the Office to Drinks in Style?

The easiest way to go from day to night is with a chic dress.  During the day wear it with a cardigan and flats. When your ready to go out at night, swap your flats for your favorite pumps and lose the cardigan. We even found a chic clutch for you to accessorize with.  Throw the clutch and heels in your tote for easy commuting. Then leave it under your desk or in your car when you head out for the evening. We threw in a beaded bracelet for your evening look, but you can probably wear that all day.

      

Stripe Print Tie Dye Pleated Dresses, $93
Women: The summer cardigan – classic sepia, $44.50
Vince Camuto Hamlet Flat – Tan, regular $126.99, sale price $79.99
Kathy Van Zeeland Delicious Mesh Tote, $110


Jessica McClintock Top Closure Clutch, $60
Amethyst Heel – Bronze, reg 99.99, sale $49.99
Simply Whispers, Bracelet $9.98

Our second look will work all day and all night. You will look polished and professional during the day and fun and stylish at night.  Start with your basic black pants and add a deep navy silk blouse.  Depending on how professional your office is, you can always add your black jacket too.  Punch up your heels with zebra stripes across the rounded satin toe.  And don’t forget your statement necklace and cocktail ring. This is the perfect time to pull them out. If they feel to glitzy during the day you can always layer them on before heading out for the evening.

Women: 718 Martin sleek straight pant – Black, $79
Women: Sleek flap-pocket blazer – Black, $150
T-Bags Jemma Ruffle Blouse, Final Sale Price $80
Naughty Monkey Women’s Mix Up Pump, $74.95
Women: Coin bib necklace – Silver, $69
Kendra Scott Jewelry Peacock Nell Ring, $75

Both of these looks will keep you stylish in the office and ready for drinks at night. You may not be dressed in your club clothes for your evening out, but you will still look like you’re ready to have a little fun without jeopardizing your professional appearance. 

If you have questions about improving your work style send them to info@workchic.com.  Plus you can share your tips for dressing for a full day in our comments below. Happy Shopping!

Soft ruffles have been a strong trend for a few seasons now, and what’s not to love about floral prints. We are going to put together some business casual outfits that are feminine and still professional. 

There is no denying the femininity of this blouse, and we are sure you know how to wear it with your denim on weekends. Follow these steps to make it work at the office too.  Pair with khaki trousers and a belt.  Finish the look with a collarless short sleeve jacket and peep toe pumps.  They will add the professional look you want for work.

Joie Kayce Top, reg $198 sale $138
Women: Linen collarless jacket – Vintage navy, $130
Women: Martin weekend trouser – Active shore, $69
Patagonia O Web Belt – Natural, $27.95
Harri Pump – Blue, reg $104.99, sale $89.99

How about a floral skirt with soft pleats?  It’s chic on the weekends with a simple t-shirt.  Make it stylish and work appropriate with a belted cardigan vest and blouse. Finish with neutral accessories and chic pumps.

BB Dakota Walsh Skirt, $44
Splendid Sleeveless Wrap Cardigan, $63
Lace Ruffle Top, $18.99
Women: BR Monogram patent leather belt – Taupe, $75
Pompadour – Camel Leather, $124
Women: Confetti bangle – Pine, $39

The trick is layering the soft styles with stronger more structured pieces.  Jackets do wonders along with tailored trousers and belts. Pick up these pieces and try experimenting with dresses too.  We have a great selection for Spring and Summer.  Have fun shopping and don’t be afraid incorporate soft and feminine styles into your professional wardrobe.

As you know we are very passionate about you looking your best for your interviews and everyday in the office. Well we are not the only ones.  Dress to Success has been focused on this mission for years and recently www.Heels.com got in on the initiative. We’re here to tell you more and what you can do to help.

Melissa and I have been helping out as Personal Shoppers at Dress For Success for the last year.  Many of you may know them as an organization that gives suits to women.  They do that and so much more.  As personal shoppers, we help women who have interviews scheduled find a suit that fits them and is appropriate for their job market.  This personalized experience helps build their confidence in preparation for their pending interview.  After we get them “suited” they speak to a career counselor that helps them further prepare for questions they may be asked and educate them on their rights.

Once they get the job they are invited back to Dress for Success.  At this time we help them select a weeks worth of clothing for their new office environment.  One weekend we helped a women who’s job required a week of training on the other side of the country.  It was very rewarding to virtually pack her suitcase for this business trip. We could see her confidence build knowing this was one less thing she needed to worry about. After this second suiting they speak with the career counselor again and are signed up for The Professional Women’s Group.  This group meets monthly and focuses on building a career, enhancing professional skills, and maintaining a healthy work/life balance.

What can you do to help? Have you been considering Spring cleaning? Clean out your closet and donate any professional clothing to your local Dress for Success office. They take more then suits.  You can donate separates, shoes, handbags, even jewelry. Anything that would be appropriate to wear to work.  Volunteering or making a monetary donations are more options. Visit their website and decide what works for you.

Heels.com helped by donating shoes to women in Charlotte, NC preparing for their interviews. Shoes for Every Woman at Heels.com! They have also decided to donate in a couple additional locations in North Carolina.  Help Heels.com continue the ability to give back by doing some shopping for yourself.

Then when you are ready to clean out your closet again, you’ll have more professional shoes to donate.  We love when giving back comes full circle!