I love wearing dresses, skirts, flowers, lace, jewels, flirty tops, heels, wedges, etc. So when I started working in schools, I knew I was going to have some trouble adjusting to the new wardrobe I was about to create. I knew I was not going to completely throw away my style, but I would need some pieces that would transform my girly and flirty look into a more professional ... girly look. No matter what job you are in, I suggest asking your supervisor or coworker about the dress code or expectations. However, I have learned that these pieces really helped me transform my look without breaking the bank.
1. Cardigans
Duh! This is an easy one. Cardigans are a super easy way to cover up the shoulders (which is a requirement at most positions) without having to wear your grandma's sweaters. (Sorry, Grandma!) You can get them in pretty much any color you can think of, and some even have cute patterns or detailing. I shop at Forever21 when I need basic, solid colors. When I want something with some pizzazz (anyone else think of pizza just now?) I'll check out stores like Tommy Hilfiger, TJ Maxx, Kohls, etc. These are a staple, and they're much more casual than wearing a blazer every day.
2. Blazers
Awkward, because I just said cardigans are more casual than wearing blazers every day. Which is totally still true. However I love blazers just as much as cardigans! I think blazers can help you look put together and professional while still keeping some style. I will say this: it is far more difficult in my opinion to find a fun, stylish blazer than it is to find a fun cardigan. I frequently visit thrift stores for blazers because I have found some very interesting pieces that are fun but still look polished. Another plus? You can pair these with jeans to look totally business-casual or pair them with slacks to be completely profesh. Yeah. Profesh.
3. High Waisted Pants
For some reason, I think these look totally adorable but also very chic. You can wear them with loose-fitting blouses, which I think would be a very cute, appropriate work outfit, and then when you want to be a little more flirtatious, throw on a cropped top! Bam! Instantly cute-i-fied.
4. A-line skirts
These are also easily transformable. They can look very appropriate yet stylish for the work day, but throw on a cropped top and heels and you've got yourself an outfit for date night or drinks with the girls!
What are your favorite pieces that help you to look professional without changing your entire style?
