I often get career-style questions – what to wear to an interview, for a presentation, how to make a quick switch between the office and cocktails. We all want to feel confident when we walk through the door, and having the right outfit definitely gives you the extra boost you need to kill it (read my mega-detailed blog post on what to wear to an interview, here). Once you’ve nailed the interview, what to wear on your first day is a whole new ballgame! I’m so excited to work with Kate Spade on helping you guys style the perfect outfits, for any occasion.
On your first day, you want to wear something that shows off your personal style, but is still professional. You’ve already attended the interview, so you should have a pretty good idea of what the dress code is in the office already. At most offices (unless you work somewhere that requires suits), you can get away with wearing an elegant pair of jeans (the darker, the more formal). These embroidered bell crops are the perfect way to add a little flair to your outfit – check out the cute flower motif – while still being business appropriate. Plus, you can’t ever go wrong with a crisp white shirt. Wear one over a pair of nice dark jeans, and tuck it in if you want to keep things neat. Shoes? Well, I went for killer platforms, but you could easily switch these out for patent flats, brogues, loafers or pumps.
Lastly, I think the best way to make a statement for a work outfit is with your outerwear. It’s the first thing people see when you walk in, and first impressions are everything. Whether it’s a colorful blazer or a chic leather duster jacket like this, keep tones muted and continue the color-scheme into your accessories: I finished off my look with these chic maroon tassel earrings and matching bag! And ps. I’m all about wearing color as an additional source of strength. Did you know that wearing certain colors has an effect on your mood? Burgundy symbolize inner strength and success – perfect for that first day! What do you guys think?
What I’m Wearing: Shirt, Jeans, Jacket, Earrings and Clutch by Kate Spade
xx,
I love how you’re able to strike the balance between professional and stylish! The embellishments on your jeans and the earrings are so perfect yet so cool for the office! Plus you’re so right about outerwear!
x
Shloka
http://thesilksneaker.com
Love this outfit but where are the shoes from?
Louise you’re such a warm, charming and lovely lady! ?
This leather duster is BEAUTIFUL. Obsessed with the color. <3
http://www.wonderlandsam.com
Ummm. I somehow don’t think that’s what readers mean when they ask this question. Embroidered denim culottes with a leather duster, platform heels with ankle straps, and tassel earrings for what to wear to work? To be fair, I don’t work in the fashion industry or live in LA and there are many different office cultures, but I thought I’d offer some suggestions to the millions of us that find ourselves working in more formal workplace environments.
I think this question is always best answered with “good, quality basics.. Keep the white shirt- one tailored and one blousy (bonus points for silk!) A nice pencil skirt that hits just above or below or at the knee (or a midi for a little more modern-retro look). The skirt is a good piece to play with texture. Please own at least one pair of well-tailored slacks; start with neutral but a nice houndstooth or plaid, etc., also keep things interesting. I am definitely a fan of experimenting with pant leg styles and love the cropped bell option. A wide leg pant is a stylish, power piece. Yes, culottes – or to the floor length. I would simply select another fabric for work.
The stylish outerwear is a great suggestion, as well. (A leather duster might get some side glances in my workplace but to each her own.) Fit is essential. I also recommend timeless, tasteful accessories (I like delicate chains and utilitarian watches) and a good pair of pumps. For shoes, pick a great shape that is still comfortable (easier than it sounds). With some of the great block heels options you can go a little higher and maintain comfort and stability but in a conservative office, I still try to keep it at 3” or less. We can agree to disagree on that one. If you can only have one color, start with black, but you will also get a ton of wear out of nude. Some would cringe but I also love a good cognac shoe, too. I am currently fawning over a suede greige… but enough about me.
Next steps when you have your “phase one” basics are ad a good blazer and a million dollar (WORK) dress. By million dollar, I mean an investment piece that is QUALITY and flatters your shape so YOU feel like a million dollars. I prefer structured pieces so my mantra with dresses (and really everything) is TAILOR, TAILOR, TAILOR. Another personal recommendation is leave the wrap dresses for casual Fridays, but that’s going to depend on how conservative your work place is.
I also really like the suggestion to bring your personality to work (in the form of your outfit) on day one…. But if you are just getting started, wear your power outfit and have the rest of these basics on hand to make it through a week of work, mixing it up with length, cut, fabric, pattern and texture and adding more signature pieces as you go.