Ability to Accessorize

I have been interning at a law firm this semester and have a pretty small rotation of professional clothing. Navy skirt suit. Navy pant suit. Black skit suit. Black pant suit. Red dress. Not the most exciting wardrobe out there. I try to spice things up with my accessories every day before I leave. Not only do accessories enable us to stand out from "animals" it allows us to stand out as the future of the legal profession. The legal field isn't changing so much that I would show up in a hot-pink miniskirt, but would I rock a hot pink necklace or bold turquoise earrings hell yes! Below I've outlined easy (and appropriate) ways to express yourself and accessorize in even the most formal workplaces. Best of all, you can wear ALL of them and still look like the smart, powerful professional that you are.

Four Eyes

I'm pretty much as near-sighted as I comes. Growing up, I had some serious coke bottle glasses. Although I got teased a lot when I switched to wearing contacts in high school, I finally felt pretty. Going back to wearing glasses (aside from getting ready for bed) has been a very slow process. However, I think that putting glasses into my outfit rotation is a nice little spunky change. Just wearing glasses once a week shakes things up a bit. Plus nerdy-chic is in right? Cough * Jenna Lyons * Cough.

Arm Candy

Watches. Don't have one? Buy one. You never see a professional man without one, so don't be caught with a naked wrist. Plus, it saves you from the professional faux-pas of looking at your phone to check the time. Phone in bag. Watch on wrist. That simple.

9-to-5 Bling 

It exists! It's all in the execution. I'm a big fan of buttoning up my oxfords all the way and throwing on a chunky necklace. Pearls have their place, but wearing them every day is a yawn. I'm a big fan of J.Crew, Anthropologie, and Chloe + Isabel, which make most of my go-to pieces.

Carry All

My professional bags are the work horses of my wardrobe. I have 2 bags that I have in rotation, a black Kate Spade satchel (similar) for the black outfits and a brown Michael Kors tote. I don't really find the need to have more bags that than because they go with everything and I frankly don't have the room for a million bags in my tiny apartment. I found it worth it to purchase two high quality universal bags than a bunch of trendy bags that are limited in their matching potential.

Cinderella Story

Shoes can make or break an outfit. Much like with bags, I have a small rotation of shoes that I wear to work. They are all professional (read: low heal, closed toe), but they each have a special touch. My nude heels have a delicate bow and my black heels are D'orsay cut. I am too young to have shoes that look like they could do double duty for an octogenarian going to the casino.

Finishing touches

Belt it! I love pairing my leopard belt with my black pieces and a soft pink belt with my navy pieces. Adding just a tiny sliver of print or color can really turn clothes into an outfit. I'm also a fan of wearing an professional but unexpected nail color. I love soft versions of Pantone's color of the year orchid. It's pink enough in color that it can easily pass in the office.

Shop the Post:

xo

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Twenty Five Bedford

I have one word for the Twenty Five Bedford clothing: swoon. I stumbled upon this amazing brand while surfing the web this week and felt compelled to share the goods. Twenty Five Bedford makes some seriously beautiful, office appropriate clothing. The styles are timeless and the colors are super on trend. Minty blue? Bold navy? Spicy cayenne? Check. Check. Check. You also have the choice in selecting fabrics for many of their products which is great for certain climates... or certain body types. Here's my top 3 picks from Twenty Five Bedford to perk up your professional wardrobe:

The Ruffle Blouse

Peplums have a rep for being "going out" tops. However this super conservative version is perfect for layering over a pencil skirt or trousers for the office. I really love this pairing of minty blue over navy. It's a great application of the "tone on tone" trend.The only thing missing is an office appropriate statement necklace.

Long Sleeve Peplum Dress

This might be the most beautiful power dress I have ever laid my eyes on. Uber conservative, yet still appropriately feminine... sigh.  This aubergine color is one of my favorite colors because it looks great on absolutely every skin tone. I know it would look stunning with a summer tan or my winter white-ness.

The Flair Blazer

I rarely see "twists" on the classic blazer that I would ever wear to a professional office. However the simple pleats in the front of this blazer are just enough to make this blazer unique. I think what seals the deal for me is the lack of buttons which keeps the piece streamlined and modern.

I'm so glad to find another professional brand besides those in chains and department stores!

xo

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All images via 25bedford.com

Yay or Nay: Day2Night

So I originally came across Day2Night in a Buzzfeed article that listed the top 13497845 things every woman needs in order to survive/find a man/look like a Victoria's Secret model etc. etc. etc. Day2Night sells products that you can wear from the office to the bar, without looking like a hooker at work or like you just came from court at happy hour. I honestly don't know how I feel about the products. I understand their extremely practical benefits... but at what cost? I remember having pants that zipped off to capris, then shorts, in middle school. I'm quite sure those cost me all of my friends.

1. Zip-Off Skirt

This skirt has the possibility of being worn at 4 different lengths ranging from office appropriate pencil skirt to an itty bitty mini. At $98, it's rings in right around what a standard pencil skirt will cost you at J.Crew or Banana Republic. The removable sections look like pleats, so the overall design is actually quite aesthetically pleasing. 

2. Adjustable Height Heels

These shoes are originally sold with two heel heights: low (3/4") and high (3 3/4"). Additional heel heights are available for purchase. At $168, these bad boys are definitely at the pricey end. You could buy Cole Haan heels with Nike technology for less than these. I don't know just how comfortable or stable these heels are to justify the splurge. I fear stepping on a crack in the sidewalk and having the heel getting lodged and popping right off.

Between the two, I have to say the heels are something I'd be more likely to wear. The skirt just reminds me too much of my awkward zip-off pant days. I like the idea of being able to wear flats during my commute and just snapping on heels when I get to the office. That's so much easier than packing a whole second pair of shoes that eat up (and smell up) your purse. For both, I can see the value for someone who travels frequently for business. It would be so convenient just to pack one skirt and one shoe that will cover nearly all social situations.

What do you think? Function over... I don't know... dignity? Has anyone bought these?

xo

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Lilly at Work

Lilly Pulitzer: Maven of wild prints, itty-bitty hem lines, and flashy colors. My inner sorority girl loves Lilly, but unfortunately she has historically been in my top 10 list of "don't-even-think-about-wearing-to-work" brands. However, in honor of Lilly's birthday (tomorrow 11/10), I thought I'd take a shot at finding some pieces that were a little less West Palm Beach and a little more West Wing. To my grand surprise, there were quite a few pieces that didn't have elephant or fish print on them! Behold! Lilly work-appropriate pieces!

Haven Sweater Dress $208

This is the perfect LBD for winter. 

Office: Pair it with opaque tights, pumps, and pearls.

Date Night: playful heels and a statement necklace

Weekend: Riding boots and a colorful scarf 

Leighton Blazer $178

I did a double take when I saw this outfit. Is Lilly starting to market to the professional woman? Swoon.

Elsa Top $148

Perfect top for layering with a suit or simply with jeans. For more on my obsession with white button up shirts click here.

Estate Skirt $148

I love printed and texturized pencil skirts. They are the perfect way to remain business casual while showing off some style. It can be so easy to fall into a solid color rut in a professional office!

Evangelista Pant $118

Named after the supermodel. I'm pretty sure there is nothing wrong with looking like you have mile-long legs in the office if they are covered in a well-tailored pant.

Kat Kitten Heel $198

I don't own navy pumps. This kitten heel is making me seriously reconsider that life decision. I love the patent and delicate strap in the front. (Also seen in gold above with the Leighton Blazer)

BONUS!

To celebrate the late Lilly Pulitzer's Birthday, all purchases made this weekend (11/9 - 11/10) will have a free gift! Go ahead and make some holiday purchases and get a little something for yourself in return!

Any Purchase = Compact Mirror

$250 Purchase = Make-Up Case

$500 Purchase = Leopard Bangle

$1000 Purchase = Carry-All Tote

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The Workhorse

Ah, the white button up. Perhaps, the most versatile piece of clothing anyone could possibly own. There are few things that can be worn from the courthouse to the beach. I probably have 5 variations of the "white button up" in various fabrics and cuts. I've definitely gone from office to happy hour by swapping my pencil skirt for jeans. White button up + blazer + skinnies + pointy pumps look = PERFECTION! Yes, I may veer a bit to the classic/preppy side, but I love to spice a simple button up with a funky necklace and an arm full of bracelets. Button up + no pants? Audrey you're a woman after my heart.

Here are some of my must have iterations:

1. The Classic

For when you don't want to mess around.

J.Crew Boy Shirt in Classic White $69.50

2. The Sheer

For when you don't know what time you'll be home kind of night.

Express Convertible Sleeve Portofino Shirt $49.90

3. The Tunic

For those lucky gals who get to go from the office to the beach.

H&M Chiffon Tunic $39.95

4. The Ornate

For when "The Classic" won't cut it.

Temperley London Lace Trimmed Blouse $830

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The Wonderful C.Wonder

C.Wonder is known for its fresh pops of color, prints, and monograms. So you can imagine my surprise when I discovered so many work appropriate pieces. C.Wonder, founded by J. Christopher Burch (yes, our girl Tory Burch's ex-hubby), is taking malls across the country by storm! Leave the neon at home, but pick up a few of these pieces to perk up your 9-5.

1. The Tote

Black and navy to match literally everything you own? Sold. Loving the gold hardware and super-on trend satchel shape with expandable sides.

Leather Keeper Satchel $298 in Navy & Black

2. The Shoe

Goodness, gracious this is one pretty shoe. This might be the most versatile shoe I've ever seen. Light enough for summer, dark enough for winter, polished enough for the office, and simple enough for running errands. 

Leather Cap Ballet Flat $98 in Ecru & Black

3. The Dress

Black, lacy, faux leather trim, and exposed zip. Forget 9 to 5. This baby is 9 to last call.  

Scalloped Lace Dress $168 in Black

4. The Bling

Tell me this wouldn't look great peeking out from beneath a classic white oxford. Now weather that oxford is paired with a suit or jeans is up to you.

Gold Dome Necklace $68

5. The Cherry on Top

The peplum shape: giving a classic piece a little more kick. The length: perfect with pants or a dress. The ability to perfectly pop the collar: more enigmatic than the Bermuda triangle.

Double Cotton Peplum Trench Coat $198 in Flax

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All images via CWonder.com

Lessons from the Duchess

Kathy Cambridge may or may not have a "real" job, but her outfit choices can teach us all a few things. The Duchess consistently nails proportions, classic looks, and perfect tailoring. 

Coats

The perfect jacket is like a cherry on top of an outfit sundae. Pick a belted coat for a feminine shape. Don't be afraid to add your own belt for a custom look! Picking a coat that can be worn to the office and to the grocery store is budget friendly and expands your outfit choices. If the Duchess can repeat outfits, so can you!

Get The Duchess's Look: 

Splurge:  Burberry London Coat $1,195

Save:  J.Crew Cocoon Jacket $350

Steal:  Zara Zip-Up Coat $189

Hem

We may all not be royalty, but that doesn't mean that our appearances aren't scrutinized. Hem length can make or break an outfit.  However, mastering hem length doesn't come easily. Too long = stubby legs. Too short = getting attention for all the wrong reasons. 

Kate learned early on that short skirts wouldn't fly with Grandma Elizabeth.Take a cue from grown-up Kate and embrace sleek, modest styles that cover your legs but still accentuate your waist. 

Get the Duchess's Look: 

Splurge:  Altuzarra Margaret Pencil Skirt $795

Save:  Boss by Hugo Boss Dalana Dress $595

Steal: J.Crew Factory Long Pencil Skirt $57  

Shoes

Pumps

High enough heel to keep your legs looking good, yet short enough to be comfortable and look daytime appropriate.... easier said than done. Yet, the Duchess seems to master this look with nearly every public appearance.

Duchess Pick: LK Bennet Sledge Pump $345

Closed toe, small platform, moderate heel... Well done Kathy. Well done.  

Boots

Wearing heeled boots to work may seem risque. However, with tights and a modest hem, they will look downright chic.  

Duchess Pick: Aquatalia Rhumba Boot  $418

The chunky heel and suede material keep this boot out of hooker territory and solidly in the comfortable, cool weather category. 

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Holy Grail of Work Bags?

As mentioned in the "About" section of The Esquirette, the impetus to create this blog was the sheer lack of feminine and practical bags for the professional woman. How hard is it to find a bag that can fit a computer, some files, and the daily essentials within arm's reach? Apparently very hard!

Et voila! The search is over! The Dagne Dover tote bag just might be the work bag that has seemingly evaded me for years. The tote is made of water-resistant material and has gold-plated feet to keep the bag upright. Inside you'll find a laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve, wallet pocket, cell phone pocket, THREE lip gloss or pen compartments, a detachable keystrap, ID holder, AND an insulated water bottle / umbrella holder. Try saying all of those features in one breath! This bag just just got moved to the top of my wish list!

The Dagne Dover is sold for $245 in six perfect colors from black to mint. Monogramming is available! Swoon.

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Rain, Rain, Go Away

I must admit... on rainy days, like today, if I don't have to leave my apartment I won't. However, I find that when I do venture out, rain really flatters Philadelphia. It adds a freshness to the air that "Philthy" isn't otherwise known for, the parks are empty so it's easier to see the beautiful landscaping, and the toy dogs are wearing ridiculous little rain coats. What's not to enjoy? Oh yea... getting wet. When I go out in the rain, I have my black hunter rain boots, black trench, and black umbrella. Clearly I'm not one to sport cheerful rain gear. I find that I err on the side of black when it comes to certain pieces in my closet just because they transition well from work to the weekend and I don't ever have to worry about clashing!

As obnoxious as I may look with all my rain gear, I can promise you that I can survive a splash from a SEPTA bus hydroplaning. Nothing is worse than showing up somewhere looking like a wet dog.

If I wasn't such a scatterbrain who loses umbrellas every time it rains, I would definitely invest in this umbrella from MoMa; that way, in my own little bubble, the sky would be blue. I love that jacket with the red boots. The red detail really ties the two together without being too "match-y match-y." Unfortunately, purchasing a Burberry rain coat (Sold Out) will not be happening  in the remotely near future. I'm really liking this similar trench from Zara.

Stay dry out there!

Splurge. Steal. Covet.

There are somethings that every professional girl MUST have in her closet. As a result,I've decided to start a series called "Splurge. Steal. Covet." for professional wardrobe essentials. Splurge for the ladies who have an itch to drop the big bucks for a quality piece. Steal for budget-minded women or those just entering the workforce. The covet choice may not always be the most expensive but it would be a special piece that may not be as traditional as the others. Since the pointy black pump is such a staple, I figured it would be the perfect way to start of this series. The pointy black pump is like working gal's little black dress. Like the LBD it should have its own acronym, the "PBP". Now this isn't the black shoe that you wear out on the town for night with your girls. It should probably be the exact opposite. The perfect PBP should not show any toe cleavage, the heel should be 3 inches or shorter and wrapped in leather (ie. no stacked wooden heel), there should be no visible platform, and they should be extremely comfortable to walk in. If you're going to just have one, I highly suggest plain leather over patent leather. I cannot overemphasize how important getting the correct size is and using all the correct shoe shopping rules that you're suppose to follow. For example, make sure that if you plan on wearing the heel with hosiery that you try on the shoe with hosiery. I've made the mistake of not doing that before and ended up with a shoe that is WAY too lose when I wear tights with them. So without further ado, here is the Esquirette's "Splurge. Steal. Covet." choices for the PBP:

Splurge: Jimmy Choo Aza Pump $690 
Steal: Nine West Elise Pump $59.95 
Covet: Prada Tassel Pump $575 
Images via Nordstrom.com & DSW.com

Summer Series: Bare It All?

One day of above-60 degree weather and I'm ready to go to the beach! Despite all the fun that comes with the summer months, warming weather can lead to many a professional wardrobe faux pas. The first dilemma I want to address on this series on appropriate summer work attire is the use of pantyhose. Who doesn't love the little nip and tuck pantyhose gives you? In the winter, they can be a great excuse to slack on shaving. In the summer, however, they are just a royal pain. It's hot. They cling. Your feet sweat. It's just no fun. However, we have signed up for one of the few careers that encourage, no, require, sporting pantyhose year-round. Here are some do's and don'ts to wearing pantyhose in the summer:

• DO err on the conservative (pantyhose) side. First summer working at a job? Take your cue from the more senior women in the company before going bare.
• DO always wear pantyhose for interviews and court appearances.
• DO know the culture of the city you work in. Total difference between Boston and Miami.
• DO wear the correct size. Nothing like feeling like a stuffed sausage in August heat.
• DO wear cotton underwear. Yeast infections are no fun.

• DON'T wear pantyhose with open-toed shoes. EVER. Open-toed shoes will be discussed in a later post.
• DON'T be caught without a spare pair. You never know when you might get a run.
• DON'T forget to lotion, lotion, lotion, shave, and lotion if you aren't wearing tights.

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Mid-Week Romance: The Working Girl's Guide to Valentine's Day

It's time for the blogging world to address the giant purple elephant in the room. VALENTINE'S DAY IS ON A THURSDAY! For most of us, that means whatever romantic plans we may have are going to follow a full day at work. As much as I'd love to wear some pink silky number out to dinner, I'd rather die than strut out of the office wearing something like that (assuming I've changed out of whatever I wore to work.) So, the only realistic option is to wear an outfit that transfers seamlessly from the office to that cozy italian BYOB. No one's has to know if you're rocking a little special something underneath.

One office-appropriate switch would be to upgrade heels your heels to something more evening appropriate. Black leather pointy toe pumps don't exactly scream romance. However, I'd still avoid peep-toed shoes; it's still February after-all! I would also ditch the workbag for something smaller and add some funky jewelry.

The Dress

• A-Line Dress in Indigo via J.Crew $228

Office

• Tippi Cardigan in Wild Petunia via J.Crew $39.99
• Classic Link Necklace via J.Crew $165
• Austin Pump in Natural by Nine West via Zappos $69
• Madison Leather Carrie in Cognac via Coach $498

Evening

• Ravesh Pump by Steven by Steve Madden via Nordstrom $148.95
• Naturalist Gem Layer Necklace via Anthropologie $58
• Glint Crystal Topper Clutch in Silver via Nordstrom $78
• Lace Boy Shorts in Electric Pink by Honey Dew Intimates for Madewell $18
• Lace Bralette in Electric Pink by Honey Dew Intimate for Madewell $32

Go Red for Women

The American Heart Association is an organization that is near and dear to my heart (no pun intended). Heart disease remains American women's #1 killer but the good news is that there are so many things you can do to minimize your risk. The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign is in full swing for the month of February and you can show your support by making "heart healthy" changes to your lifestyle or by simply wearing red. Red translates perfectly from the office to your Valentine's Day plans so no excuses!

1. Nail Polish in Snap Happy via Essie $8
2. Director Dress in Red Chili Stretch Wool via J.Crew $188
3. Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Luminous Matte Lip Color in La Favorite via Nordstrom $34
4. Bailey Ponte Peplum Top in Poppy Red via Club Monaco $119.50
5. Legacy Leather Penny Shoulder Purse in Carnelian via Coach $198
6. Via Spida "Estrella" Pump in red suede via Nordstrom $98.98 (Currently 50% off!!)
7. Split "T" Stretch Webbing Belt in Lobster via Tory Burch $85

What to Wear: Volunteering

For it is in giving that we receive.

Francis of Assisi 

I have been active in volunteering and fundraising in one way or another for as long as I can remember. From joining charity walks, cleaning up an impoverished neighborhood, preparing meals for the homeless, to pulling a Boeing 747, I have found giving back to my community the most fulfilling way to spend time. I love that the legal field has built in systems to encourage volunteerism through pro bono projects and firm-sponsored charities. 

Looking back, I haven't always been the most appropriately dressed to these events. I have erred to far on the side of stylish and was not dressed down enough to comfortably do the task at hand. Unfortunately, I have also sported clothing far too relaxed for the event and looked like I rolled out of bed. Flats, pajama pants, and statement jewelry really have no place at a volunteering event. The key is to be comfortable, yet presentable, especially if you are volunteering with coworkers. I picked the pieces below because they are all functional and classy. If you are working outside you should be prepared with a weather and wind-proof jacket, sunglasses, and appropriate layers. I love the grey top because it dips down at the bottom, which provides extra tush coverage if you are squatting down or bending over. At $7, it also won't matter if you get paint, dirt, or food on it. 

Left
Barbour Gore-Tex International Jacket $425
J.Crew Corduroy in Cabernet $79.99

Center
Ray Ban 901 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses $150
Design House Stockholm "Pleece" Infinity Scarf via Nordstrom $70
Converse All star Dainty via Zappos $50

Right
Mossimo Supply Co. Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Tee in Heather Grey via Target $7
Gap 1969 Legging Jeans in Santa Cruz Blue $69.95

Wearing Pantone Color of the Year Emerald at Work

Emerald had been declared color of the year by the color trendsetting gurus over at Pantone. Professional wardrobes are normally primarily made of black, navy, brown, and other very interesting neutral colors like nude, camel, and beige. Like red, emerald is a classic color that can easily be incorporated into your office wardrobe to spice things up. Whether layered under a suit, used as the focal point as a dress, or highlighted with an accessory, emerald is a timeless color that is appropriate in all seasons and looks great on all skin tones. I would just avoid wearing this gem stone color too close to St. Patrick's Day; you'd be just asking for leprechaun comments. Here are some of my favorite emerald pieces for work.

1. Tommy Hilfiger Classic Round Leather Strap Watch in Green via Nordstrom $115
2. Black Halo Jackie Belted Garbardine Sheath Dress in Shamrock via Nordstrom $345
3. Dooney & Bourke Janine Bag in Emerald via Zappos $238
4. BaubleBar Emerald Trillion Bib $32
5. J.Crew Collection Cashmere Tippi Sweater in Pine $168
6. Banana Republic Silk Pintuck Blouse in Whispering Pine Green $79.50
7. Merona Skinny Belt in Green via Target $12.99