Work That Look. Part One: Tops

Fashion at work can be a tricky thing to master if you are of the fortunate ones who do not have to wear some insidiously awful uniform to your job everyday. There's no doubt that you work hard for your money and maybe you want to be taken a tad bit more seriously. Here's a major tip, my little fashion cougar, leave the leopard print skinny jeans and slashed black tank at home. Unless of course you work at Hot Topic, for whatever absurd reason. I know, I've abandoned you for awhile what with school work and being a full time fashionista bogging me down but I'm back and with a vengeance no less. Today, I'm hear full of helpful do's, don'ts and tricks of the trade that will help you advance to up the company ladder and look fabulous doing it.

I'd like to preface all of my tricks by reminding you of the golden rule: No matter what size, shape or color you happen to be, in the long run it's all about FIT. If it doesn't fit right, put it back on the rack and try again. 

To start us off I'd like to talk about TOPS.

So, for those of you who are just venturing out into the workforce in a job where you don't ask if you'd like to "Upsize your combo for .50 more" I'd say try and start with some basics when building a work wardrobe.
Button Downs: Safest bet for a young professional.
1.) They're versatile.

Perfect example of a well fitted blouse in a good color.

             -- You can dress them up or down with accessories.
             -- They can be paired with just about any kind of bottom
2.) They come in every color under the sun.

Tucked into a chic skirt. Very put together!

            -- No matter your skin tone you're sure to find one in a great color
3.) They range in prices.
           -- Great for any budget.



Jackets. Yes, I'm talking suit jackets.A surprisingly good investment even if you don't purchase the entire suit. A suit jacket can be paired with a skirt or pants and make the entire look more PUT TOGETHER!  It's great for those days when you're trying to pull off trouser jeans in the office, too. By adding a suit jacket you're definitely giving off a much more professional outward appearance.
Now if a traditional suit jacket just really isn't for you try a blazer, the suit jacket's fun and feisty younger sister. I am absolutely in love with the idea of a bright pink satin blazer paired with black wide leg trousers, which we'll talk more about later, and a pair of pumps for work. It's professional with a younger edge... It's just so....profesh.

Tuxedo Jacket.

If I still haven't sold you on the idea of a jacket here's one more to try before you write it off all together... The tuxedo/menswear jacket trend. Yes, for the most part we see this trend paired with the minidress on the model who's legs go on for ages but surprisingly the tuxedo jacket is something I approve of for work... if done correctly. Here's how I suggest you do this look. Start with skinny black pants and a pair of funky colored platform stilettos add a fitted black or white t-shirt and a chunky necklace. Top with a tuxedo jacket, preferably in a neutral color add an armful of bangles and voila! The trick to menswear is making sure to add feminine accessories to keep you looking like your gender.