As hard-working college students, we all look forward to the day when we’ll finally get the job or internship of our dreams. We can’t wait to hear the clicking of our heels on the floors of Vogue or gossiping with our coworkers by the water cooler at NPR. As young women, however, we also know that work isn’t everything and that sometimes all we need after a long and grueling day at the office is a night at our favorite bar with our girls and a cosmopolitan a-la Carrie Bradshaw. The only problem is that there’s barely enough time to run home and change between work and happy hour and it’s almost impossible to get up and dance or flirt with the cute bartender when you’re wearing an ever-sexy combination of your trusty tweed blazer and beige kitten heels. Luckily, we’ve produced a list of six different items you can wear to the office and for a night out with your girls.
1. A statement necklace
Statement necklaces are the perfect way to add flair and femininity to an otherwise drab outfit. Even in a conservative office, a simple statement necklace can breathe new life into your usual work attire. Check out Forever21 or J.Crew for these adorable and affordable accessories.
2. A printed skirt
Depending on how strict your office dress code is, you have hundreds of options to choose from. As long as the rest of your outfit is simple, you can rock everything from color-blocking to chic and simple prints. Head to J.Crew, H&M, Express, or Top Shop to find the skirt that’s right for you (and your office).
3. Unique accessories
Pair a printed belt with a simple dress or metallic clutch with your suit to add a burst of color and fun to an otherwise dull and lacking outfit. You’ll be able to go from work to a night out with your friends feeling classy and cool until you head home. While most stores will carry fun accessories, try Forever21, Express, or H&M for trendy pieces that won’t break the bank. For those of you with more to spend, check out the fun and feminine accessories at Kate Spade, Tory Burch, J.Crew, or Nordstrom.
4. Colorful pumps
One thing a girl can always count on to dress up an outfit? Heels. Even at an office with a strict dress code, a colorful pair of pumps can give you the glamor you crave. Just make sure they’re comfortable to walk in around the office.
5. Bold blazers
Don’t let this item fool you; blazers have come a long way since you saw your mother wearing them to the office as a kid. These chic alternatives to typical suit jackets can be dressed up or down. They also come in various patterns and colors so you’ll have an infinite amount to choose from. Pair a cute blazer with some colorful pumps and you’ll be sure to make an impression at the office and your girls’ night out.
6. Playful tanks
Tanks are the perfect clothing item to carry you from day to night. Because you’ll most likely be wearing them under a suit jacket or blazer, you can have a lot of fun with this item. During the day, you can cover an open-backed or embellished tank, and then wear it sans-jacket that night when you go out. The best part? You can find fun and trendy tanks at just about any store, no matter what your budget is.
No matter how you choose to dress up your look, always make sure you’re staying within your company’s dress code. While fashion is fun and the idea of wearing sparkly stilettos is tempting, remember that staying professional and more conservative is always the safer option.