Fashion 7 years ago

Redefining Work Appropriate Attire

Working in a creative environment means I have a lot of freedom when it comes to my work attire and dressing how I want and feel that day but I know a lot of you work in corporate offices and have a lot more restrictions and guidelines to follow!

So, that’s why I’m so excited to bring back my BFF Linette to talk about redefining work appropriate attire (corporate offices approved)! You probably recognize Linette from this post here! She lives and works in NYC and is a total boss babe. I’m going to let Linette take it away from here!

Coat: Joeseph | Blazer: Theory | Blouse: Tibi | Trousers: Theory | Heels: Aquazurra  | Bag: Celine (Similar Here)

First of all, I’m thrilled to be back as a contributor! I hope my insights will be helpful to my fellow 9-5ers.

Working in a corporate office can leave you with very little time for your personal life. Pile on the stress of planning your outfits? It’s at the bottom of my to-do list.

This year, I decided to try the ‘uniform’ concept at work – narrowing down my base to black and white, and adding on a neutral layer (i.e. a grey blazer), or unique accessory to add some flair. I’ve been doing this for a few months, and to be honest, it has been LIBERATING. I absolutely love knowing exactly what to reach for each morning. The last thing I want, is to start my day cluttered with decisions. You know, kind of like Steve Jobs – I love this article on “decision fatigue” (check it out during your lunch break).

This may not be for everyone, but for me, it’s been a game-changer. I no longer try to keep up with every single trend since I’m focused on investing in a few classic pieces. For me, that means a great silk blouse or even black leather pants (I like to add a little edge or masculinity to my style). Now, I spend my morning preparing for the day (prioritizing my to do’s, flagging urgent emails) or getting in a little self-care (like meditating or stretching for a few quick minutes). Makes all the difference in how you approach the day!

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Kitten Heels: Chanel (Similar Here) | Backpack: Mansur Gavriel 
I am constantly inspired what working women wear on the train. You have to strike a balance between making it commuter-friendly while looking somewhat decent if you run into your CEO in the elevator. Here are the staple pieces that I’ve seen work best in rotation:
4. Kitten heels (to change into at work)
A great blouse can take you through any season, and silk tends to read more put together, like “I tried”. Black pants are a go-to in my wardrobe – I have different lengths, fabrics, and cuts but usually wear skinnies. As for boots, any New Yorker will tell you that flat black boots are a must (no matter the season). And I’m sure I’m not the only one to do this – I keep a mini shoe closet at work so I can quickly change out of my commuter shoes (which as of late, have been muddy from the snow).
Recently, I’ve been loving a great kitten heel – the ones pictured here are my newest acquisition so I’ll be hand carrying them in my backpack until they’re broken in. (P.S. I think backpacks are so much better for subway transit than large totes – less strain on one shoulder!)

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Blazer: Tibi  | Scarf: Acne | Blouse: Tibi | Jeans: Frame | Boots: Freda Salvador | Sunglasses: Celine (Similar Here)

Would love to know what you’re wearing to work – anyone else try the uniform concept? What else would you like me to share? Let me know in the comments below! Until next time,

x Linette

Credits:

Photography by Xin Wang