Four Wear-to-Work Must Haves

While some workplaces are going casual, others are keeping it strictly business.  It’s often a challenge for women to find great and stylish things to wear to work that are appropriate for every office scenario.  That matching pants suit is great for the board meeting but seems a little too much if your day consists of web updates and returning emails.  Likewise, that sweet little dress that was so cute to wear to dinner the other night may not be the right look for your annual review.

I think there are four main pieces that every working girl must have in her wardrobe.  You’ll need to choose other items to go with these pieces.  But, having these staples in your work wardrobe is essential if you want to have a successful climb up the career ladder.

A Pencil Skirt

Straight and basic colored pencil skirts have long been a stand-by for working girls.  Though their lengths change, they never go out of style.  Choose one that is well made and in a color that is versatile enough to go with a wide variety of blouses and it will last you a decade or more.  My favorite is basic black with a thin white pin-stripe.  It’s not only slimming but it looks fabulous with a crisp white collared shirt or a blouse in the season’s hottest style or color.

A Great Pair of Heels

Your feet will thank you if you go ahead and spend the extra cash and buy some good shoes.  I spent my twenties walking what seemed to be miles every day through the city in cheap heels and I’m paying for it now.  If the shoes look cute but aren’t comfortable, don’t buy them.  Appropriate heel height for work is no higher than 2 inches.  Choose a basic color like black and skip the patent leather.

A Well-Tailored Blazer

Find a blazer that fits you well or have one tailored so that it does.  A great blazer looks professional and can help if your workspace is always freezing!

A Fantastic Pair of Designer Glasses

Studies show that people who wear glasses do better in job interviews. Why? Because they look serious and smart.  Choose a great fashion frame that is stylish and a good match for your personality and wardrobe.  Tortoise shell frames almost never go out of style and look especially great at work.  Here are two of my favorite pairs for the office:

And, voila, looking great at work is just that easy!