When viewing “wear to work” sections in magazines, I usually find myself overcome with a conflicting spectrum of emotions. I feel confused, slightly appalled, and severely jealous, and I have to believe others feel the same way. I actually laugh out loud when a “work wear” article features “professional shorts” paired with a bold blouse, sky high heels, and heavily layered accessories. Yes, I wish I could wear that to work (hence the jealously), but if I ever did wear dressed up shorts or a mini or something sheer without a tank under it, I would be sent home immediately and an email would be sent to the entire office reminding everyone of the dress code. Suffice it to say, I don’t know what audience the editors are catering to, but whoever it is it isn’t someone who works in an office with a strict business casual—with an emphasis on business—dress code.
I had a hard time adapting to office life. My style and wardrobe used to represent two extremes: casual chic or runway ready, so initially I found the “business casual” guidelines to be quite stifling. However, now, I have found a new balance in my wardrobe and style that I actually have work to thank for and I never thought I would say this, but I enjoy the challenge of finding new ways to express myself stylistically within the confines of “business casual.” Whether it’s a bold print, a little neon, conservative sheer, fringe, or color blocking, I have made work wear my own!
This post is compiled of a week long photo shoot Dzifa (my fashionable work friend and fellow blogger) and I did during our lunch breaks, as well as few snapshots I took of my boyfriend on the way to work, some random ensembles I enjoyed, and a photograph I took of a truly inspiring woman.
Thank you so much to Dzifa, Brandon, Kee-kee, and Marissa, this post would not have been possible without you! Also, please check out Dzifa’s blog at mrdzifs.tumblr.com!
Shirt: Banana Republic Outlet, Trousers: H&M, Belt: H&M, Shoes: Zara, Sunglasses: Ray Ban, Watch: Timex Weekender, Briefcase: Zara
details
Blazer: Theory, Blouse: Forever 21, Pants: Theory, Shoes: Sam Edelman, Necklace: Anthropologie, Watch: Michael Kors, Purse: Michael Kors, Sunglasses: Marc by Marc Jacobs
Adding a bold print or an exotic shoe is a great way to add flare to an outfit and really make it your own. I also love this blazer–adding a blazer to any outfit is the perfect way to polish off a look.
so dc
Shirt: Ralph Lauren, Trousers: Dockers, Belt: Vineyard Vines, Shoes: Minnetonka Mocassins, Briefcase: Zara, Watch: Timex Weekender, Sunglasses: Ray Ban
Dress: Zara, Blazer: Zara, Necklace: Banana Republic, Shoes: BCBGirls, Watch: Michael Kors, Sunglasses: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Bag: Michael Kors
I love this dress 1. because it is perfect for every occasion 2. because the seams add edge to the femininity
A kind stranger on their lunch break took this pic for us
Blouse: Vintage, Pants: Aqua, Shoes: Bandolino, Necklace: Banana Republic, Watch: Michael Kors, Bracelets: random assortment, Sunglasses: Marc by Marc Jacobs
Shirt: Tommy Hilfiger, Trousers: H&M, Belt: H&M, Shoes: Zara, Sunglasses: Ray Ban, Watch: Timex Weekender
this is my favorite picture from the week! Dzifa, thank you so much for being so patient and for making the photoshoots so much fun!
Blouse: Zara, Tank under Blouse: Zara, Pants: Aqua, Shoes: J. Crew, Bag: Michael Kors, Sunglasses: Marc by Marc Jacobs
Necklace: Kendra Scott
Shirt: Lands End Seersucker, Trousers: H&M, Belt: Vineyard Vines, Shoes: Minnetonka, Sunglasses: Ray Ban, Watch: Timex Weekender, Briefcase: Zara
Suit: Luca, Shirt: Custom, Sunglasses: Oakley, Shoes: Magnanni, Belt: Remo Tulliani, Watch: Mougin & Piquard
details
perfect for spring
Photo courtesy of atlantic-pacific
i would definitely get some confused looks wearing this in the office but it would totally be worth it! what a fabulously bold suit!
Photo courtesy of musingsinfemininity
these shoes are the perfect height for work and for anyone on their feet all day…..the details are fabulous
Photo courtesy of www.saucyglossie.com
i LOVE the mixture of texture
Photo courtesy of nomnomblingbling.blogspot
so classic yet so modern
Photo courtesy of theglitterguide.tumblr
I had the pleasure of taking this incredible woman’s picture on my walk home from work one day. I love the androgynous suit and tie paired with her fabulous hair and shades. Jewell, you are gorgeous!
garden of glam 
Working Girl may be my favorite post so far. I loved your narrative introduction and the sassy practicality of the subject matter.
love the white dress outfit!