Last week, I was featured in a segment on my local TV channel. I am still a little shocked to even be typing that. It was such an amazing experience and I feel so lucky to have been asked. Mass Appeal is a lifestyle show that shares local business and happenings in the western Massachusetts area. I grew up watching the show and to have been asked to share my fashion tips was an honor.
During my segment, Kayla Hevey and I discussed outfits appropriate for a professional environment or internship. We focused heavily on shopping your own closet and finding pieces that will get you the most bang for your buck (mix and match items).
To watch my segment, click here.
My Tips Before You Shop:
Look deep into your own closet before heading out to shop. You might be surprised what you find in there. When shopping, look for gaps in your current wardrobe and focus on versatile basics. I personally own each of these pieces and they are the backbone of my professional and personal wardrobe.
If you can, invest in pieces that you will wear often. A comfortable pair of shoes will likely be worn daily- grab them in a neutral color to get the most use out of them.
Don’t assume that investing means $$$. I can promise the items I shared are reasonably priced and have lasted far longer than anticipated.
Where I Shop For Work:
Old Navy, Banana Republic Factory Store, Loft, GAP, J Crew Outlet, Target, Amazon
Outfit #1
This outfit would make a great first impression on an interview or first day of work. It is classic with a twist but timeless. I love this white blouse- different than your everyday button down but will be a versatile basic. pair it with any of the bottoms listed below or with your favorite skirt.
These pants have been my go to black bottoms for 10+ years. They recently debuted a higher rise and they are fabulous- think, shape wear meets your favorite stretchy but professional bottoms.
The heels are a must. I recently replaced my favorite nude heels with these are have no regrets. they are classic, comfortable (wider size options available!) and the heel is slightly wider than your quintessential stiletto. They come in a range of nude colors to match skin tones.
The white blouse and black skinny pants run true to size. Click to shop
Outfit #2
I am in love with this dress. I love it so much that i have it in 3 colors- no shame! It is feminine, flirty and professional all at the same time. It is a lighter fabric so bare that in mind but it will pair week under cardigans, blazer as shown below and with many different footwear options: boots, flats, heels, mules, sandals- endless options.
Dress and blazer fit true to size. Click to Shop
Outfit #3
Trousers are a professional closet staple and have been for many years. With the trend of a wider leg coming back, a wide leg or bootcut trouser will get a lot of use. I personally have this pair and had had them for 8 years- they still look as good as they did the day i bought them!
I live in these forever knit sweaters from Banana Republic Factory Store. They are light weight, fit true to side and are comfortable to wear- not too heavy or too light and never itchy. I have it in v neck, crew neck and in many colors.
A good trench coat will carry you for many years and this item does not need to be purchased at top dollar. You can save and get a nice piece for a bargain like this one.
Trench coat, sweater and trousers fit true to size. Click to shop
Outfit #4
These pieces will pair well with many of the other items suggested above:
- put the cardigan layered over the dress
- put the camisole under the blazer
- pair the jeans with the white blouse or camel sweater
The options are endless!
I love a long statement necklace when its styled over a plain long sleeve top, dress or as shown below. It elongated the look and adds just enough sparkle to catch the eye.
Be sure to ask if denim is appropriate for your work environment. If it is, I suggest a dark, non distressed pair in either skinny or bootcut. Clean lines are a more professional look.
Cardigan should size down 1 size, camisole is true to size- size up 1 for a larger chest and denim runs true to size. Click to shop
Classic staple pieces are always my go to for work. The last thing I want to be doing before work is worrying about what to wear or worse- being uncomfortable all day while visiting the office. These pieces are easy to mix and match with and can be worn just about anywhere. As we move slowly into the fall season, having pieces that can transition well as a 4 season piece just makes sense.
Until then,
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