Work Wear | garden of glam

I was cleaning out the attic at my parents house and came across an old Hanes sweatshirt I bought from a thrift store in high school. I have practically been living in the sweatshirt since I rediscovered this treasure. I have mixed and matched it with skirts, skinnies, my beloved leather joggers and finally workwear. So one work day morning, when getting out of bed was particularly impossible, it should come as no surprise to you that I turned to my trusty sweatshirt. I love pushing the boundaries of work wear and redefining pieces that might otherwise be overlooked. While rocking a sweatshirt to work is not for every office, know that it can be done by dressing it up with complimentary accessories and garments.

Sweatshirt: Hanes (old, similar here); Trousers: Theory (old, similar here); Shoes: Nine West (similar here); Blouse: Zara (old, similar here)

And for the details. Right Hand Rings: She’s Unique; Watch: Michael Kors (here); Necklace: Kendra Scott

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

bold – eclectic – effortless

Category Archives: Work Wear

The Trusty Sweatshirt

Working Girl