This post is sponsored by L’eggs. All opinions are my own.
One of the questions I often get asked by my readers is what I do outside of blogging. When I’m not planning my seasonal wardrobe or experimenting with the latest beauty brand, I work a full-time job in marketing and design.
Many of you who have been following along since the beginning know that this hasn’t always been my career. I graduated with my Masters in Elementary Education and taught for about five years before making the decision to leave teaching behind and start fresh.
Transitioning from the classroom to a corporate office was a bigger change than I had expected, and with that change came the challenge of curating office-appropriate looks for a business environment. While I was happy to trade in a life sentenced to flats for some shiny new heels, I initially felt overwhelmed when it came to putting together a full look for the office. Eventually, however, I came in to my own and found my workplace style, and so I’m sharing a few tips with you today on how to curate yours!
1 / Build your look around statement prints
It’s no secret that office attire can sometimes get boring. I like to keep it fresh by finding a stand-out, statement print and building around it with neutrals and textures. In the corporate world, I’ve learned that a little bit of bold goes a long way.
2 / Play with different textures
Experimenting with different textures is a great way to add depth to any outfit. Some of my favorite combinations are tweed + chiffon, suede + silk and leather and velvet with soft cotton.
3 / Always add a third piece
The idea of adding a third piece to your look almost always solves the “what is this outfit missing?” question. Add a third element to your top and skirt/pants like a light jacket, blazer, vest or statement accessory (no, shoes don’t count!). Get creative!
4 / Strive for authenticity
Once I figured out my style in the workplace, I started to be able to really have fun with it. I challenge myself to push past the classic “pencil skirt and blouse” combo 5 days a week and find pieces that are true to my personal style, instead of simply ‘work appropriate’ and nothing more. For me, authenticity breeds confidence. When I’m confident in what I’m wearing, it contributes to my success in all other facets of my career.
The one accessory I always finish my look with...
You will never see me without a pair of tights in the office! Every time I’m wearing a skirt or a dress, I always throw on a pair of L’eggs. For the two looks I styled in this post, I’m wearing L’eggs Sheer Energy® tights in nude and black (shop them here!). I love the look of a sheer style but have always been so picky about finding a tight with just the right amount of sheerness, which is why I’ve been loyal to this brand and style for so long. When you find something you love, why let it go, right?!
Whenever I’m heading to an event, I love that when my forgetful self fails to pack tights, I can pick them up in nearly any drugstore right on the way. It’s all about convenience, guys!
Hoping that these tips inspired you to get a little more creative with your workplace style! At the end of the day, self-confidence is the best outfit! 😉 #WalkTallWithLeggs
I love the idea of adding a third piece because you’re right, one always feels like something is missing! Thanks for the great tips! Believe it or not I haven’t tried Leggs yet x
Live by that third piece rule! Can’t believe you haven’t tried L’eggs! They are a classic 😉
I am OBSESSED with that skirt! Such a great piece!
xo Jessica
http://www.whatsfordinneresq.com
Thanks, Jessica! It’s a LOFT find 🙂
What a great post! It is always so interesting to learn about what people do outside of blogging! Dressing for the office can be so challenging, and you’ve made it look so easy!
Thanks so much, Maggie! I love hearing about what other people too do and getting a little bit of a further look into life beyond blogging.
You look absolutely stunning in both the looks. Totally agree with you about the 3rd piece. Thanks for sharing all the great tips.
Rita | http://www.styleroundtheclock.com
Aw, thank you Rita! You’re too sweet.
These tights look awesome and I love these looks!!!
Thanks Ruthie! xx
Such a great post! I also work in an office by day. But it’s a very casual advertising agency so I have a lot more options for my outfits — which I love! <3
xoxo,
Amanda | http://www.TheChambrayBunny.com
Oh that’s SO nice! Wish I had that sometimes. It can definitely be more of a challenge the more business-oriented the office environment is!
I loved reading this- I also have a day job in addition to blogging!
https://www.asequinloveaffair.com/
Definitely not always an easy balance but I love my day job!
I work in a really stuffy, boring government office where the staff dress pretty terribly. I really pushed myself to dress “for the job I wanted” and always look polished and professional. I love these tips of yours, along with that suede moto jacket! And my Mom used to wear L’Eggs back in the day! They used to come in actual plastic eggs! LOL!
Did they really?! How funny! Business environments can be so tricky sometimes, but I figure why not look and feel your best as often as you can 🙂
That is the perfect jacket!!! I have a black leather one but think I may need to snag this one too!! In love! xo
Ah, it’s so good! The color seriously goes with EVERYTHING.
Yes, love them with a nice sweater dress in the winter! So chic.
Thanks so much Amanda!
These are both such chic looks and the hose really complete your outfits!
xoxo,
Kim
Thanks for stopping by Kim!
I love both looks! Super cute and stylish yet very appropriate for the workplace! The tights are so perfect with both outfits and I love wearing black tights with dresses and skirts during the winter!
Xo, Steph
Black tights are always my go-to in the colder months! Thanks Stephani xx
I’m totally with you on this — my legs are so pale in the winter so tights are a must with any skirt. Leggs is fantastic.
I’m right there with ya girl…the suntan shade is a lifesaver! 😉
I really need some new tights in my life so thank you so much for introducing me to this brand! Love both of your looks. Especially that cozy sweater dress look.
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com
Oh they have always been my go-to! Just a classic brand. Thanks love!
There’s something about tights that just gives legs this airbrushed appearance. I remember my mom always suggesting nude tights even when it wasn’t cold out, and I thought she was crazy. But now I get it. These looks are gorgeous for not just office wear – but anytime!
I totally agree Stephanie! The smooth appearance makes all the difference.
Love both of these outfits girlfriend, but I NEED that skirt!
Thanks lady! The print is what totally hooked me, and of course, pairs perfectly with black tights!
Your office outfits are so chic! I couldn’t agree more with your tips!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Thanks Rach!
The one thing I tell people the most about putting together an outfit is to add a 3rd piece too! An extra layer can totally elevate the whole look! Love all of your tips!
It makes ALL the difference!
Great looks…you look fabulous! I totally live by the 3rd piece rule as well. Game changer. LOVE the sweater dress.
Such a game changer! Thanks darling xx