In terms of dressing like a man, when you’re a female into fashion it might not be ideal under any circumstances.  Let’s be honest being called butch or manly isn’t something many of us females would take as a compliment.  However, there are ways to be inspired by your guy’s attire that might just change your mind about dressing in menswear (and i’m not talking about striped polo’s or dad jeans). 

The first item up is a tuxedo jacket.  It doesn’t necessarily have to be a tuxedo jacket. It could be a variation of a men’s suit jacket. One of the most important things to remember, is even though it is technically called a men’s jacket doesn’t mean it should be taken right out of your guy’s closet.  Buy the tailored or ladies version of this specific look.  Long boyfriend jackets are great; however, don’t wear jackets that are longer than your arm’s length.  They will start to look “cape ish” and cover your figure rather than accentuate it.  These jackets are classic and versatile.  Wear them to work then go out in them!  Simple as that.  They are an easy way to look chic without trying hard at all!

Second:  Every girl should have either a big watch or chunky jewelry!  Men’s watches are very popular right now in women’s sizes.  Try searching for the boyfriend style or even sporty style in a women’s line.  This is a great look that will help you stand out.  It’s a way of adding dimension to your outfit with only putting on one element.  Once again it’s another way of adding a guy sort of edge with a feminine touch.  Simple! 

Third:  Skinny black pants or skinny jeans are great compliments with the previous suggestions.  It adds femininity to menswear therefore separating you from mimicking a complete guys look.  Because lets face it, unless your European, Justin Timberlake, or into emo what other guy can pull off skinny jeans?!  So women take advantage of this and add it to your apparel when wearing menswear!

Fourth:  Skip the tie, add the scarf.  While the tie was cool back when Avril Lavigne sported it.  It now just looks a little bit showy.  Instead, grab a bright-colored scarf and layer it around your neck and into the inside of your jacket! 

Fifth:  Choose an interesting shirt to go underneath!  Button-ups are thought of the standard to wear under a jacket.  If you’re wearing this you are screaming… BORING!  Material, ruffles, patterns, jeweled necklines, and many more types of shirts are out there rather than cotton button-ups! Be a woMAN…branch out!

I’ve given you five simple ways to turn menswear into chic looks for women.  Don’t be afraid to look better in a suit than the guy sitting next you! After all, whoever thought menswear could look so good?!

I’ve been thinking about aprons lately. What they are, what they mean, what they look like and things like that. You may think this denotes the approach of mental enfeeblement on my part, and it could be so – but I’m enjoying it very much thank you!

Women in aprons are one thing, of course. And men in aprons are yet another. Whether we are all the same under the aprons is an idea available for musing upon, naturally.

I’ve been hanging around with a guy in an apron, at least on the pages of a book. Hyacinth of ‘The Princess Casamassima’ has been with me every night recently as my head hits the pillow before falling asleep. At this point, that translates to 447 pages of him – with still a bit to go till the story ends at page 591. Hyacinth wears an apron when he works as a fine bookbinder – and the aprons of his co-workers in the small shabby shop figure in the narrative which is supposedly about a princess but really about a short Englishman who is really a Frenchman in ways. But back to aprons!  Here are some to look at:

No aprons for cooking! That surprised me a bit. I think of cooking first, really, when I think of aprons.

[America has more name brands than Law and Order reruns and while you may want to go unload your entire check at GAP or Abercrombie, you don’t want to buy something that you thought was cute and unique and later have buyer’s remorse when you see something identical for less.

I’m not encouraging you to start buying knock off Jimmy Choos from Payless and wanna-be BCBG dresses at Walmart (although, just throwing it out there, you may find some very GOOD knock offs). All I’m saying is you should know that EVERY store is competing with another store and when you shop competitively, you save money. Money that you can use to stimulate the economy…or your wardrobe.

So I thought I’d help you sift through the proverbial mall and figure out which stores are best for your budget. Each week I’ll be comparing apples to apples (or undies to undies) to give you the real deal and arm you with the knowledge you need to make the wisest wardrobe choices. Ready. Set. SHOP.]

New York & Co. and Express both sell clothes that most would consider “Business Casual/Professional Wear” and “Evening Wear.” And while you may not by your ridiculously sexy homecoming dress there, if you want to look sophisticated, sexy and like a grown up, these two stores are contending for your money.  Going to an interview? Don’t know what to wear to your job’s “Grab Bag/Potluck” Soirée? Still haven’t quite decided what you’re packing for thanksgiving dinner? Read on and win.

First up, Express.

Express
* Colorful, bright and super emaculate, Express gives you a chance to be sexy while still maintaining your adulthood. In 1980, the parent company of “The Limited” created Express to call out to a younger crowd. Then, in 2003, they created Express Men (a great place to find guy-gifts) and finally, in 2007, they became their own brand, after being sold by “The Limited”.

* The store was first launched in Chicago and has since grown to be a favorite amongst young women everywhere, with more than 550 stores across the country. Selling everything from sweaters, to handbags, to denim, this store has everything and is what they call the “must-have sexy, sophisticated fashion brand for work, the weekend, or going out.”

Let’s look at the numbers:
Dresses: $38.00 – $128.00
Lip Gloss: $7.00 (or 2 for $12)
Going Out Tops: $29.50 – $49.50
Everyday Tops: $29.50 (BOGO on some)
Cardigans: $39.00-$69.50
Sweaters: $29.50-$69.50
Denim: $29.00-$88.00
Pants: $41.60- $79.50
Undies/Bras: $7.50-$15.00
Other Accessories: $15.00-$40.00

Ok, so I never said they were cheap.

And now for the competition…

NEW YORK & COMPANY
* New York & Co. (which I’ll call NYC) was founded 1918 to  dress the more sophisticated young women. Selling everything from sweaters to slacks with warm colors, a modern feel, and boisterous patterns, NYC is (as they say of themselves) “rapidly becoming synonymous with modern, sexy style.” And it’s true; NYC brings looks straight off the runway and makes them available for everyday America. And since they’ve been around for more than 90 years, they have managed to become a trendsetter in women’s fashion.

* NYC is simply fashion.Walk in here and you are guaranteed to find fashions “ripped from the runway” that will not rip your wallet.

Here are the numbers:
Dresses: $13.97-$56.00
Make-Up/Fragrance: $12.50
Going Out Tops: $6.00-$45.00
Everyday Tops: $5.97-$39.95
Cardigans: $12.00- $60.00
Sweaters: $12.00- $60.00
Denim: $29.00-$69.00
Pants: $8.97-$49.95
Underwear/PJ’s: $15.00-$25.00
Other Accessories: $45 ( at the most)

And one last thing: NYC sells their clothing in Petite and Tall, which may speak to some of you who have issues when it comes to fitting those extra long (or not so much) legs.

You be the Judge
When polled, this is what you said:

78.6% of you prefer New York & Co. over Express
92.9% of you mostly buy sweaters at either New York & Co. or Express
50% of you guys said you spend $25-$75 a month in either New York & Co. or Express
50% said that you buy whatever is on sale when you shop at New York & Co. or Express (me too!)

When Asked what you hated or loved about NYC or Express this is what you said:

“I love that NYC has a wide range of sizes and that I can have a complete outfit to rock at work!”
“Love Both. I just prefer NYC for business attire.”
“Sometimes I hate NYC prices, they can be a bit steep.
“Express is a little on the pricey side for me and the sizes are a little sketchy”

In conclusion, both stores basically sell the same stuff, so if I were you, looking for holiday attire and possibly even gift buying, I would first create a budget for the outfit and then figure out which store meets the requirements. And don’t be afraid to mix and match! Both stores are offering holiday promotions and there’s nothing wrong with wearing an express camisole under a New York & Co. cardigan. Try it!

I have been wanting to wear my “new” skirt almost since I got it about a month ago. My mom and I went to Goodwill and I had a lot of luck. But I’m too lazy to shave my legs. So I simply wore my black leggings. And since it wasn’t exactly warm today, it worked out well. And yes, the waist of the skirt is up at my natural waist. But I think that’s how the skirt was designed. It ended up just above my knee and I thought it looked great.
Red Shirt: Wal-Mart
White Shirt: Wal-Mart
Skirt: Goodwill
Leggings: Wal-Mart
Boots: Wal-Mart
(I didn’t realize how much of this came from Wal-Mart until now!)

Here are a few outfits that mainly used items I got when I went to Goodwill back in September. I can’t remember when I wore them, but it’s good to have them up. You can click on them to see the full-size picture.

Yellow Tank: Goodwill
Olive pants: Goodwill
Jacket: Goodwill

Sweater: Wal-Mart
Pink pinstripe pants: Goodwill

Shirt: JC Penny Outlet
Vest: Goodwill
Pants: Wal-Mart

White t-shirt: Wal-Mart
Black 3/4 length sleeve sweater: Goodwill
Olive Pants: Goodwill

Today I was going through my closet and found the scarf. I had been wanting to wear the yellow tank again and thought it was a great match! If I’m not careful I’m going to turn into The Doctor in his 4th regeneration!

Pants: Goodwill
Yellow tank: Goodwill
Shirt: JC Penny Outlet
Scarf: Christmas present from Mom in 2007

Around Christmas last year, my Mom found a JC Penny catalog outlet here in Columbus. So we went out there to take a look. I was so happy to find a tall section that had tons of pants and shirts and skirts! I had never seen tall shirts before. It was soooo nice. But we also found this sweater that I just had to get. My favorite color is green, but I’m sure you already figured that out.
Oh, and please excuse the underwear. The pants are a little loose on me now.

Sweater and scarf combo: JC Penny outlet
White tank underneath: Wal-Mart
Pants: JC Penny outlet

Yesterday, I bought my first real set of work clothes. I’ve never had a job that I had specific work clothes. Lab work never required anything fancy and even when I had an office job, I was allowed to wear nice jeans and a nice top. While it was never explicitly stated to me that I needed business casual clothes, I observed most people who work at the school dress that way. I went out with my good friend to go shopping for good quality but cheap pants. I have a fair number of nice tops, but I am a jeans or gaucho pants kinda gal. Thank goodness for Frugal Fannie’s and sales.

I am nervous about starting Tuesday (I’ve been preparing today and will continue to do so tomorrow). Students don’t trust new people; I learned that from substitute teaching for labs or just simply starting out the quarter with a new set of kids. I’m also concerned about having enough material. Teaching at my grad school was nice, in some respects, because we were handed everything that we needed. I’m coming up with original material.

Of course, I am also searching for a part-time job. I have an interview tomorrow and many applications out. At this time of year, I’m not sure how lucky I will be with finding a part-time job. People have suggested seasonal work to me, but as much as I need the money (and I do), I hesitate to give up my Christmas. I’m not from MA, and I want to spend Christmas with people, especially in light of my father’s death. I couldn’t justify leaving on Christmas Eve and then taking an early flight back for a seasonal job. For my own sake, I need to have Christmas be somewhat relaxing. With a holiday job, I would inevitably have to work Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas.

As per usual, wish me luck.

Rayon was the first manufactured fiber, and it was first known as artificial silk. Here is a list of things to know about rayon:
• Rayon is soft (almost silk-like), comfortable, and absorbs well
• Rayon does not have static problems
• Rayon shrinks easily
• Rayon has a natural flow and draping ability so it is often used for women’s dresses, skirts and blouses
• Rayon is best washed with hand and using a gentle twist to wring out water because it has low elastic recovery. It can also be dry cleaned
• Rayon is a durable fabric
• Rayon is easily dyed
• Rayon does not insulate body heat, thus it is ideal for use in hot and humid climates

References: ehow, and wikipedia

Well this one took 2 evenings, the pleats are fully doubled, so no bottom seam.  This one used a full 2metres of fabric. It was much trickier than skirt 1 and skirt 2, since I did hidden seams within the pleating…

Back to work means….work clothes!  And it is a sad but true fact that I still don’t fit into some of my old clothes like I once did.  Every now and then I get all excited about pulling out an old fave pair of trousers, then, ur, no. Bugga.  These hips are changed forever I fear.  So I turned my attention from making toddler clothes into making something for me.  I started with some leftover fabric from this little girly dress, and roughed up a newspaper pattern based on where my hips currently sit on my body, and then how much fabric I had to work with for length.

It is not a bad effort, I am partly proud of the result because it was my first foray into adult sized sewing, and I can instantly see the cost benefits of this sort of effort and industry, but my little miss analytical/critical nudged in and I instantly wanted to do an improved version.   So like most of my crafty efforts it has turned into a short term obsession, completing a skirt-a-day (well, evening) and now I have a few – well, 3 so far.  With more ideas to come.  So here is v1, and then I will reveal these skirt-a-day skirts til this fix has run its course…

As requested, some insight as to what a ‘guy’ wears to work.  

When I think of a ‘guy’ I automatically picture a mid-20-something year old– so I have geared these looks towards a young professional.  

If you are a banker, you know what to wear, its pretty strict. The growing advertising, journalism, marketing, sales, photography, entrepreneurship world has allowed for a collaboration of self expression and professionalism.  In most environments it is an old joke that the marketing guy walks into a corporate meeting wearing his plaid pajama pants and a shirt he grabbed from under his bed becuase he was in a moment of sheer and utter brilliance.  I think you get like 2 of those passes in your career… and it better be a million dollar epiphany.  

So for you ‘guys’ out there looking to score a good job, be seen as a trendy professional, or even just make transitioning from ‘day-to-date’ a little easier, here are some good looks to pull from:  

An easy to follow, chic, look from Calvin Klein:  white shirt (3/4 cuff for a more casual look), plain dark tie, grey trousers with a mute pinestripe.

Conveys the message to women: I make money doing something that will provide for our grandchildren.  

Take this look from the office to Mi Cocina, loosen the tie, have a margarita, watch the women flock.

this ones is a little more trendy if you’re willing to get outta the normal comfort zone.

 Gucci:  skinny dress pants, white collared shirt, statement tie (I am loving the shorter and narrow monochromatic strips on this one).  This model is wearing a double breasted trench with this look.  I’d really love this look with a deep red velvet blazer, or even maybe a rich canary.  

I’d like to see this outfit at a business dinner at a trendier resturant, or even meeting a client outside of the office.  It says that you know you look damn good.  

The below look is also all Gucci:  I adore the plaid pants.  But you gotta rock them.  if you have any doubts, don’t bother. 

I like the contrast of very conservative on top, with the deep burgundy tie, vest, sport coat, and then crazy ass pants.  

You need a slamming body to pull this off.  But it is so doable.  

I’d totally love going somewhere where you are going to be seen with this guy. Conveys knowledge of how to style with statement pieces without seeming like you care too much. 

This look is alot.  Gucci purple corduroy  blazer with a purple plaid pant (say that 3 times fast).  

I think that most guys will have a better chance pulling the top or the bottom half off individually, but not the whole look. 

Pair the blazer with some nice dark wash jeans and you’re good to go for a corporate casual friday. 

If you’re feeling a little more laid back– an ivory or grey cashmere sweater would really compliment the pants. 

The below is definitely one of my favorite looks.  Burberry does men’s clothes SO well. 

Dark slacks, white shirt, slate grey tie, scarf, and gorgeous overcoat. 

paired with the dark shoe. 

this look is lethal… total Harvard or Yale grad look. 

back to casual fridays for our southern states. 

Another great look from Calvin Klein.  

Nice v-neck striped sweater with some dark slacks. 

always flattering. simple and sexy.  

easy for anyone to pull off.  But i really wanna see a big industrial watch on his wrist for a little edge. 

….and maybe a wool red check scarf. 

This below outfit is amazing for work travel.  Nice dark wash jeans, red accent loafers, a gorgeous distressed chocolate leather jacket and a cool scarf.  

Nothing can wrinkle and you look put together getting off the plane.  

Plus loafers rock going through security.  

Another more formal look from burberry.  

Narrow slacks,  white oxford, skinny tie, cardigan, and a nice dark blazer. 

This look can go all around from a formal meeting with Clients to a casual internal meeting at P.F. Changs. 

Also easy to break down pieces for later in the night.  Pull the cardigan off and throw on just the sports coat and its perfect for going out for drinks.  

This can also be “causal-ed” by opting for some nice straight leg dark denim jeans.  

…and this is the way to run into the office when you have that moment of utter brillance. 

Gucci:  a cool track jacket, loud sweater, some dark denim, and cool sneakers. 

It will take you just as much time to grab a T and a hoodie and sweat pants as it would to grab these items.

 (plus you wouldn’t have to smell them for mold or check for pit stains)

As far as business accessories go I am obsessed with this Burberry Two Pocket Twill tote for men. 

Statment Gucci Aviators add some edge to any of the above outfits.  Especially if you are rocking the all black and white, these are perfect. 

I really think that this Brera is the perfect watch for most men.  Simple  good sized face but obviously a high quality. 

Some great classic looks that you can mix and match.  Always wear what you are comfortable in, but if you want to shake it up a bit, start small. 

I recommend scarves, they are very easy to toss in the back of the car if you decide that you had the confidence for the canary wool scarf at 7 when you left for starbuck, but it just isn’t working for the rest of the day.

Plaid pants, on the other hand, are a little hard to back out during your morning commute. 

Have a great week. 

(marisa) 

This is exactly how i want to start dressing to work. Exactly! Gucci read my mind when they were designing these fall looks! I wish i could just touch the clothes and they’d pop out of my computer screen and into my closet! Check them out here!

P.S. All my sentences finish with exclamation points on purpose- to emphasize my excitement, jealousness, and all the emotions that are conveyed by exclamation points!!!!!!!

Another P.S. Notice how famous slim pants and tights are right now. So great!

Ah, the feeling of going on a first interview.  As if waiting for the call after submitting an application or resume isn’t nerve wracking enough, if and when you do receive the call there is a ton of work that goes into the process beforehand.  I know that me personally, I turn into a nervous wreck, I go through all of my “work” clothes trying them on until I find the perfect outfit.  Then of course I change my mind a few times before asking my young daughters to pick one.  I get up early that fate deciding morning and think about what I should say to the basic questions each interviewer asks such as “I am a little concerned about your having small children, do you have backup because it is necessary you be here every day”.  My standard (yet true) answer for this one is “My husband has a wonderful job, he has worked there over 10 years and his boss is his cousin, and therefore very understanding when it comes to our kids; if need be he can take them to the doctor or let them hang out in an office and watch TV on the couch”.  This answer seems to please the interviewer, and it makes me feel like there is a spark of hope there, I often think why is this a problem that I have small children?  Then I realize because obviously people before me have used children as an excuse to call into work, then I proceed to tell my hopefully future employer “Honestly I look at it this way, if I am not at work I do not make money and my bills do not get paid”.  This also seems to put the boss at ease and again things seem to be looking up for me.  I consider myself a humorous person and can’t help but to throw some of my witty charm in there occasionally, and it works because unlike some people I have had the traumatic experience of interviewing when I was in Human Resources as the Recruiter, I do know when enough is enough.  I would love if this person who holds my future employment status in the palm of their hand would say “Great!  You’re hired!  When can you start?”  Well this almost never happens and although this has happened in the past to yours truly, the last two interviews I went on about 2 weeks ago both interviewers asked me when I could start, and of course instead of yelling out “ASAP!!!”  I tell them I am available any time and inquire about how much the position pays, normally they quote me an amount that is at least a dollar below my minimum per hour pay request, but with a potential raise in 30-60 days.  When asked I advise I have no more questions because a good interviewer will give you all of the necessary information leaving no room for inquiries, we exchange pleasantries, shake hands and I allow them to show me out of the maze in which their office is normally located in the rear of.  As I call my husband, mom and then my best friend to report on the interview, I am feeling good, like I was fully qualified and they will of course call me even though they have a few more interviews to do.  Well it’s been about 2 weeks and a few calls to inquire if the position has been filled yet, still they haven’t hired anyone yet.  I am sitting here wondering if I did not hear them when they secretly whispered “Don’t call us, we won’t call you”!

My son, Tim Totten, has started another new business.  I am sure it will be just as successful as his others are.  Elite Uniforms in Eustis, Florida will have it’s Grand Opening on August 1st.  Tim has held several Sneak Peeks and there are others scheduled for this week.  It is going great!  The boutique style store is located in the historic downtown district.  Tim offers scrubs and accessories for women and men.  All kinds of medical personnel, vet techs, as well as those working in nursing homes and ACLF’s wear scrubs.  He will also be taking orders very soon for local city workers in the fire and law enforcement departments.  Visit his site for more info.  The customer service is excellent!  

by Alexis Cala, PICurrent Assistant Producer

Courtesy of Steve Weaver

As an intern, how you dress can be a major factor in how others see you and where you stand in a company.

In some instances, it can even mean the difference between an internship and a full-time job. While working hard can pay off, keep in mind that dressing professionally can make a difference too. Making an effort and looking the part shows your dedication and desire to be part of the team.

Each company has different standards on what is appropriate work attire, but here are a few general tips for dressing to impress:

• Ask! During the interview process be sure to ask about the company’s dress code and appropriate attire. This can save you some hassle later.
• Start with the basics. Look professional and prepared, start with a pair of black pants, a dark suit, some collared shirts, dark shoes, etc.
• Keep it neat and clean. Make sure your clothes are ironed, stain-free and in good condition. When your clothes look sloppy, so do you.
• When in doubt. Err on the safe side and opt for professional suits and dress clothes. Leave the ripped jeans, torn shirts, short shorts, and flip flops at home.
• Blend in. Dress for the part by making sure you choose appropriate clothing for your role.

Getting an internship can be a foot in the door, but it doesn’t necessarily mean your rolling in the dough. Fortunately, looking nice at work doesn’t have to cost your entire paycheck.

You can find professional clothing without a crazy price tag by checking out some of these helpful organizations:

• Dress for Success: Helps women get clothing for work
• Career Gear: Helps men get clothes for interviews and work
• Try your local discount stores, like Ross or Marshalls
• Also check your local clothing closet, church, and shelters

Be sure to visit our sister site, The Beehive, for a great section on dressing for success.

For more information, please visit:

The Denver Post

Associated Content

What is this?

You have a closet full of clothes; racks of clothes, shelves of clothes, piles of clothes and still nothing to wear. How many times have you stood at your closet door, panicked, at 7:00 a.m. and just grabbed the clean black slacks? You know, the pants that look just like the ones you wore yesterday, or were it the day before? Sounds familiar? How about looking into your closet and finding useful, pretty, personal pieces that help get your day off to a bit better start? Your clothes can give you a lift, raise your confidence and help you show the world who you are. Find out how.

1. Pink Is The New Black: Barbie look is a real clunker. Trust me. No office is that funky. And hot pink bike shorts never work, especially at work; or even when biking, for that matter.

Style It: Try this color in hints. If you must, keep the trench but pair it instead with a clean, elegant black dress. For the less adventurous, a colored bag is an easier accent to pull off.

2. Casual Corner: There are people who anticipate Casual Friday all week like it is Christmas. And then there are those who embrace it daily. My word of advice: Don’t. If you’re exercising the idea of Casual Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, then how is Friday different? You’re basically just sloppy.

Style It: Lose the leopard stirrup pants. They never work—even on a casual Sunday. Do not encourage your employer to cancel “jean” day – On jean day, please wear jeans. Not sweats, not shorts, not pajamas. A pair of clean jeans will do.

3. Act Like You Care:Yawn! Definitely more appropriate for the ‘I’m-bored-room than the boardroom’. a little thought goes a long way.

Style It: Two things here. First, think fit. The No. 1 style mistake women make is the fit. Jacket should always be short and the sleeves should never go beyond the wrist. It gives you a sleeker appeal. Second, think accessories! You’d be surprised how a little accent can change everything. I’d opt for a skinny belt over the jacket or one shorter, more substantial statement necklace.

4. Working To Get Notice: Working? You bet, if your profession is the oldest one in the world, or even if you’re auditioning for the next season of Dancing With the Stars, need to get noticed in a decent way.

Style It: If you must wear shorts to the office, go with a darker pair, and wear them with something much more sophisticated, like a shrunken boys’ blazer and shirt. Otherwise, go for the skirt instead.

5. I’m Just Not Into This: Looking like a bargain deal from Feline’s? Avoid It! Do not wear fishnet stocking and 5 inch heels to work (together). If you must wear this combo, please pair it with a conservative suit/dress. You want to tone down the vampy look. Turn heads responsibly.

Style It: You love the belt. You love the bag. The dress is interesting, and black lace tights are definitely on trend. But all together it is a fashion collision. Always pick one item that will make your outfit standout. Pick one, and wear it with chic, high-waisted men’s-style trousers (maybe in navy or black) and a shirt. Carry the bag too, for that extra oomph! Or if you may, do not wear fishnet stocking and 5 inch heels to work (together). If you must wear this combo, please pair it with a conservative suit/dress. You want to tone down the vampy look. Turn heads responsibly.

6. Walk Don’t Run: This is total commuter cliché. Unless you are literally running home, don’t really wear sneakers and backpack to office.

Style It: I understand the need for comfort, but what about chic, simple ballet flats and a tote bag? And the plus side: Ballet flats are even less cumbersome to carry than sneakers and fold up small enough to tuck into the tiniest of bags.

7. The 90’s Aren’t Back-Yet: Chest full of button coats and shoulder pads are no where in fashion now.

Style It: Start by softening and/or removing the shoulder pads (any tailor would be able to help there), add black stockings, and ditch the metallic square-toe shoes (awful!) for a classic Ferragamo pump instead.

8. Fits Like A Glove: Again, I emphasize fit. Something that fits properly will change your look completely. Seriously, ladies, stay away from those body-hugging, tight, “lift and separate” dresses, jeans and tops. Just because the outfit garnered you 20 phone numbers at the nightclub does not mean you should recycle it for the office. You want the right kind of attention from your colleagues.

Style It: Jackets often have allowances inside the seams to be let out slightly, and any tailor can do this. It will make for a better fit. As for the pants, keep it G-rated.

9. I Love The Sun: So do we! But remember you are going to the office and not to a barbecue party.

Style It. Do not dress for a summer barbecue. If you really need to wear that cute sun dress, by all means, please go ahead. But add a jacket or cardigan. You want to appear professional, especially if you have an impromptu client meeting. A good rule of thumb is to keep a jacket/sweater in the office for emergency meetings… click here to read more

Although work attire is simple and relaxed here in the Middle East, I remember back in my NYC days, it was an entirely different story. I at first ran around to job interviews wearing my sister’s black, Jcrew, pant suit. Then later after scoring a job, I had to keep up with my stylish workmates who shopped waaaay more than I did. Of course, work dress code depends a lot on which field you work in and what position you might hold, but overall, New Yorkers are known (amongst a billion other things) for their fabulous work getups.

These days, I not only work in the high tech industry, which is notorious for it’s relaxed work attire, but I work in a country that doesn’t enforce any kind of work dress code. (or any kind of code code period.) It’s such a breeze! You wake up, shower or not shower and throw on a pair of dog haired jeans and a crumpled up top you grabbed from the dirty laundry. Who cares?

Well, sometimes I do. I can miss those L train fashion packed commutes, rallying uptown in the morning then back out to Billyburg in the evening, peering over at a girl’s skirt impatiently swishing around while waiting on the platform, or a boy’s sneakers planted directly below my subway seat gaze. Each day was truly a full day of fashion inspiration.

In my work wear daydream today, I picked out some work pieces that I could wear just about anywhere. Shopping on: opening ceremony, urban, anthropologie and shopbird.

~ ready to work ~