This week I am honored to be giving two talks! I know the audience at one of the talks (the moms at my son’s school), but I don’t know the audience at the other. So, I asked a few questions about the audience to tailor my talk appropriately. I was super excited to learn that the majority of the audience would be working gals! Based on their feedback, I learned they were interested in staple items for their closets that could be worn casually and to work, as well as summer staple pieces! I got so excited, because I felt like I had some very valuable information to share! I know, kinda nerdy!
Here are the Top 10 Ten Things I’m Loving Right Now (based on the picture above, starting at the top left corner and moving clockwise)
Short rain boots– Why are short rain boots essential for a working women? Well, have you ever tried stuffing your Hunter rain boots under your slacks? Have you ever walked down the quiet halls with your big boots making that knocking noise? I have. It’s not fun, pretty, or comfortable. Short rain boots are your answer.
Blazer– I specifically recommend a blazer that is not a suit blazer, but a blazer that has a contemporary shape (like the one in the picture). This little difference is key, because it makes it easier to wear out on the weekend! You don’t feel like you’re wearing your work blazer out at night. I really like these two (here-splurge and here-steal).
T-shirts– T-shirts are a summer staple (obviously -ha!). We wear the heck out of our t-shirts, especially if they’re one of our favorites. So you know what that means, stains (armpit and more) and holes. They need to be replaced. I am loving the t-shirts from Madewell right now, specifically their sleeveless, v-neck and crewneck tees. Ok, all of them! Ha!
Slide on sneakers– These are another staple for the summer! I just bought this black pair, and I already want the white pair! Because let’s face it, it’s hard to maintain pretty feet in the summer, and sometimes you need a little more support than what your sandals are giving you. I plan to wear these with jeans, shorts, dresses, skirts and work-out wear. So, all the time! Ha! I ordered down an entire size from an 8.5 to a 7.5!
Black flats– A comfortable pair of black flats is a staple for any wardrobe. I’ve had these d’orsay flats for a couple years. They come in other fun colors, too! This is a great way to add color to your wardrobe!
The dress up, dress down shirt– I made this term up. Ha! This shirt is usually flow-y, and it’s silk or rayon (depending on the price point). It is a button down, or it has a plain placket with a collar. It is best to be on the longer side, so it can be worn under a sweater and easily tucked in. All of these characteristics make it a versatile shirt that can be worn under a blazer or tucked into a skirt for work, and it can also easily be worn with jeans and shorts during the summer. Check out Pleione for lots of options.
The pixie pant– The pixie pant is THE wardrobe staple of all wardrobe staples. I’m serious. They can be worn to work, date night, and church. I’ve never seen a client that has not looked good in this pant. They suck you in and make you look slim. Yes, they are a miracle pant. Wardrobe. Staple.
Statement earrings– Accessorices are the finishing touch to any outfit, whether you’re dressing up or dressing down. Find a pair of earrings that you feel good wearing to both work and casually. Try to stretch yourself a bit, go big and colorful. Make some kind of statement. It can take an OK outfit and make it great! (See here and here)
Nail Polish– White-ish/Pink-ish nails are a big trend! This particular one (Don’t Bossa Nova Me Around by OPI) is my favorite! It even looks pretty against my pale skin!
Skincare– I am a huge fan of Colleen Rothschild products (read more here). I like her products, because they’re not complicated and are effective. I recently tried her one step gel cleanser, and I’m in love. Her Vitamin C complex has actually diminished my forehead and eye lines. Now you know why I included it in my top 10! Ha!
I hope you all found this post helpful!
Outfit Links: Short rain boots- J. Crew, Blazer- Top Shop, Halogen and James Jeans, T-shirts- Madewell, Slide on sneakers- Vans, Black flats- J. Crew, Blouse- Cloth & Stone, Pixie pant- J. Crew, Earrings- Argentino Vivo and Elizabeth and James, Nail polish- OPI, Skincare- Colleen Rothschild (here and here)
Anne says
Wow! This is my favorite type of post…a goldmine! And, so many of the items you chose are on sale! Thx!!
Carly Lee says
Wonderful!
Kim perry says
Thanks Carly!! Love this post so much. I’ve been looking for ways to update my work and regular outfits! The Nordstrom blazer? How is it sized or what do you recommend?
Carly Lee says
Hi Kim, I’m so glad you like the post! The blazer’s run TTS. I have the blazer in XS/2. I hope this helps! Thanks for your comment!
Laura says
I think I own 5 pairs of pixie pants and they come in maternity!! Best pants ever.
Jeanie says
Great ideas!
Kim Perry says
Thank you Carly! This post is better every time I read it!!
Heather says
I love the Van shoes. I bought a pair of them but the stitching under the top part of the shoe is rubbing my foot. I usually hate no show socks since they always slip down on the heel. Do you have a suggestion for a good no show sock to wear under them? Thanks!
Carly Lee says
YES! I’m about to post them. Stay posted! Thanks for your comment!