What to wear to work is hard to keep up with. Here are 5 essentials for your work wardrobe and work fashion tips to keep in mind when starting a work wardrobe.
Fall is around the corner so I thought I’d do a round-up of work staples. Even though times have changed and some companies are moving to “come as you are” there are still some companies and positions that will forever hold to the business or business casual model.
1. A classic pair of black pumps
It is no secret that most women love shoes and will leap at any chance of finding a good bargain or sale; however, all of our fabulous heels are not meant for the workplace. If you are just starting a work wardrobe, go with a classic pair of black pumps: 2 inches or under, pointy toe, solid color leather/suede. To find your classic pumps, start with affordable retailers such as Steve Madden. His shoes are usually pretty comfy and can range from $69.95 to $98.95. If you would like to get better quality for your money, may I suggest J Crew. Heels typically start at $150.00.
If you are looking for Italian made, all leather shoes I suggest M. Gemi, a new brand. Their prices start at around $200. If you really want to go all out you can do Manolo Blahnik or Christian Louboutin (the classic coveted pair of Red bottoms-So Kate or Pigalle-start at $725). Just make sure if you are a city dweller you have a pair of comfy sandals or sneakers to get you to and from the office. We don’t need any horses galloping down the street. But if you are not keen on black you can opt for a nude pair.
2. The Power Suit
Typically, even your business casual offices rarely make you wear a full suit. Usually, you’ll see blouses, sweaters, pencils skirt, and chinos; but, let’s not forget the interview or that very important board meeting you have coming up. Again, starting from the bottom up. H&M has an entire career section to dive into. I have shopped there and the fit is pretty good. Keep in mind their clothing may run a bit small because they are a European based company.
Next, I would suggest Banana Republic; they too have stylish clothes for the working woman. More than half of my dresses and work wear is from Banana Republic; J Crew’s line is similar. Next, if you have reached the boss level, I suggest a suit from Saks Fifth Avenue. They feature several designer suits that will surely command attention the moment you walk in; and no, I am not talking about those gaudy Balmain blazers.
3. The Collared shirt
If you have ever ventured out around lunchtime in a metropolitan area, I am sure you will see men and women wearing collared shirts racing back and forth to lunch. I hate ironing so currently I am buying from the Banana Republic non- iron shirt collection. I have one in pink, black, and polka dots. Starting at a more affordable price point. Target and H&M, have collared shirts starting at $19.95. Next would be J Crew or Club Monaco. I have heard good things about both companies.
Keep in mind that your collared shirt doesn’t have to be the stiff kind you think of when you see the old stick in the mud CEO; they can be more loosely goosey and those would be considered a blouse. Get a few from your favorite retailer and you can interchange them with your new power suit that you just bought.
4. Your work bag
It has to be durable, functional, and for some of us ladies stylish. Again starting from the bottom to the top: Target- we all know and love it for the great prices. The next time you are there, check out their handbag selection. It is quite good. Sometimes they even have leather bags which lead me to the next company: Zara. In the past couple of years, they have put themselves on the map; their bags are functional, durable, and stylish.
Next would be the ever lovely Kate Spade (RIP) for the quirky professional. The designer does have classic bags that are perfect for work. Her Cameron Street Harmony bag is a modern take on the tote bag and starts around $298.00. Each year and season the company comes out with different colors. If you are just starting your work wardrobe go with black, it goes with just about anything. Following along those lines consider Tory Burch; depending on the bag it may cost more for this designer.
Lastly, if you are looking for luxury the YSL Sac Du Jour is an option. I have it in black with gold hardware; it is about 4 years old and retails for $2,890.00. While I love the bag, I will caution you: it is heavy! An honorable mention is the Louis Vuitton Neverfull. It retails for $1,320.00. Not to worry, the website Fashionphile (used luxury goods) always have them in stock.
5. Lastly, the trench coat is essential when starting your work wardrobe
We all know and love trench coats. I have a couple. First, starting off, I suggest Target. With the new brands that Target has been showcasing, it safe to say when it comes to competition, they are squarely in the race. I have been to Target several times over the summer and many items have followed me home. Next would be Zara. For most, it is a step above H&M.
When you are ready to do a quality upgrade, start with Banana Republic or Club Monaco. I have two trench coats from Banana Republic ($99.00) and one from Club Monaco ($258.00). If you just have to have the best of the best, then go with Burberry. Start with the basic colors. If you don’t have a tan, blue or black trench coat, avoid bright colors or one that has designs all over it. When starting a work wardrobe, keep it simple. We want to make sure it will keep you current for seasons to come.
Disclaimer
Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, Romwe, and Fashion Nova are not listed in this post because they are considered fast, “disposable” fashion. You wear them for one season and then you throw them away. I compiled this list for sustainable clothing (meaning next fall, you won’t be rushing out to buy an entirely new wardrobe) that will help you reach each level in your career. Plus ladies, since we are getting older, take more pride in your clothing selections and realize that we live in a visual world.
Consider this picture: You are meeting your next potential client, boss, or partner and the first thing they see is the fast fashion clothes that have seen better days. Just based on that five-second interaction, they have come to the conclusion that you are not the right one without even hearing what you have to say or offer. We always want to make sure we are putting our best pump forward.
Finally, let’s make sure our clothes fit.
When it comes to corporate fashion clothes must fit properly. Tailoring can make a suit from JC Penney look like you just stepped out of Marie Claire magazine. When I buy clothes, especially for work, I always budget for tailoring. Clothing is made for the masses; more than likely it is not going to fit like it was made for you. There is nothing wrong with your body; you just have to make your clothes work for you!
There you have it your corporate fashion advice of the day! These items are key to putting together outfits and figuring out what to wear to work.
