Working Girl: Back to Basics

As boring as it can be, you need your neutral, classic pieces. Tops & bottoms in white, cream, beige, black, gray, brown, tan, etc, will all be your best friends in your new work wardrobe. When you slowly build this core up, you can pair one of the neutrals with a bright or patterned top or bottom that will let you express yourself, but also be grounded and mature. Plus, when you have a good line of neutrals, it's way easier to get up and throw together a great outfit after you drank a little too much the night before.

On an episode of What Not to Wear, they had a young woman with no confidence in her ability to put together professional outfits. Her outfits were too casual or too bright because she thought that neutrals were boring, but she was moving up and needed to be taken seriously. Stacy & Clinton came to her rescue and explained that she could still be youthful & have fun with her wardrobe, but there was a method: find something you like, something you love & add some bling. Basically, find a flattering neutral for your top or bottom, add a fun top or bottom that you love, then put on the amazing shoes with personality &/or funky & blingy jewelry to top it all off. Don't overdo the bling, but with a neutral at the base of any outfit, you will look great!

The outfit I am showcasing today is not the most exciting outfit I have, but it is one that is flattering, I get lots of compliments on & it is SUPER comfortable.  Most of all, it's got those lovely neutrals with personality that we all love (or will learn to love).

My ruffled blouse and basic black pencil skirt both hail from JCPenney. Some people scoff at good 'ol JCP, but if you want quality stuff at a reasonable price, they are a better option than most. Some love Kohl's, but they just don't have the same quality and they are usually more expensive. JCPenney's best brand for work neutrals is Worthington. For your funky stuff, try I <3 Ronson. American Living is another good one that can be a little mom-ish, but it is meant to be an adult preppy line like JCrew. Sometimes they have great funky pieces, but for the most part, they have lots of classic patterns & styles. 

My shoes are Aldo Howett in black leather. They are well-made & comfortable & although they were $60, they are well worth it since black flats come in handy 150% of the time. Aldo makes great flats (neutral & otherwise), so check them out. 

***Invest in your classic pieces. You will save money in the long run and feel fabulous every time you wear them.

Your assignment this week is to find a FLATTERING plain black pencil skirt and plain black flats. Also, stop buying knit tops for awhile, you need more blouses. 

Hope this was helpful. Leave any questions or comments below and stay tuned for next week's exciting edition of Working Girl!

back in black,

bunny