As a Retail Management major who obsesses over the latest editions of Vogue and Cosmopolitan, the last thing I want to look like at work is “business professional.” Ew.
Every time I hear the term “business professional,” I imagine a snobby, 40 year old woman in a tweed skirt suit. Not my idea of a fashionista. I want my work outfits to be chic and classy, with a little bit of edge, the kind of outfit that can turn from daytime to nighttime with a simple change of accessories.
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to be business casual at work and still have your co-workers dying to know how to be as stylish as you.
In the corporate world there are four must-haves: the blazer, the pencil skirt, the tote, and the pump. Use these to your advantage.
The Bright Angle Blazer from Nasty Gal – $58.00
A brightly colored, cropped blazer can spice up any ensemble at the office. The blazer is a key item in a businesswoman’s wardrobe, but there is no reason why they have to be dull and boring. It does not matter which way you wear it, out on the town or at your next business meeting, the blazer is a must-have for any girl. These days, blazers come in so many different fabrics, cuts, and colors. Step out of your comfort zone and go for something a little flashier. You’re guaranteed to turn heads in this Bright Angle Blazer by Nasty Gal. This is my favorite site for edgy, out-of-the-box blazers.
Zip-Back Pencil Skirt With (Minus The) Leather by Express – $59.90
A black pencil skirt will always be a staple and at least one should be in your closet. Put a spin on this classic look with a mix of textures and fabrics. This amazing pencil skirt from Express mixes a polyester-blend with faux leather for a unique look. It you are not daring enough to mix materials try a black, bandaged pencil skirt to add texture instead.
Daycation Bon Shopper by Kate Spade – $148.00
Do you have piles of work to take home time and time again? Are you using one of those ugly, black, 80s looking carry alls for your work laptops and binders? Well… stop. Just stop. I do not care if it is provided by work. It is not cute. Take your work home in style with a fun, printed tote. This Daycation Bon Shopper by Kate Spade New York is the perfect example of a fashionable way to take your work home without looking like you just came from the office. This watercolor print is fresh and new. You’re sure to steal the scene with this amazing bag.
Ritta by Jessica Simpson – $98.00
Of course, a patent black pump is going to be a go-to shoe for the office, but the Ritta by Jessica Simpson is a great alternative that adds a bit of metallic and shine to your office ensemble. This five and a half inch pump (don’t worry, the platform is an inch and a half, so it is almost like a four inch heel) is the perfect amount of sexy and style for the office.
Now that I have covered the four basic items every woman should have in their closet (with a twist), I hope you take my advice and step out of your comfort zone to rev up your wardrobe. It will get you noticed in the office for being very chic and fashion forward. No one in corporate retail wants to be solely focused on the numbers, the products and trends are just as important. So flaunt the styles and trends you love like it is your job.
Sources:
http://www.nastygal.com/clothes%2Douterwear/bright%2Dangle%2Dblazer
http://www.express.com/zip-back-pencil-skirt-with-minus-the-leather-4734…
http://www.katespade.com/daycation-bon-shopper/PXRU3662-3,default,pd.htm…
http://www.jessicasimpson.com/product/ritta.do?sortby=ourPicks