Shopaholic Goes To...Work!
Yes, you are reading that correctly. Today I started a new (and full time!) job. I wasn't really expecting this to happen - and technically, I wasn't even "looking" for a job. But I was presented with the opportunity to go back into the mortgage business - with the largest credit union in the world. The opportunity - and benefits - are so amazing, I felt it would be foolish to turn it down.
Now, I'm sure you already know my next thought. "What am I going to wear?" The environment is "business casual" but it's a little more conservative than I thought. In all seriousness - I don't own many black, grey and navy "basic" items of clothing. I also don't own many "dress" shoes. This is going to be interesting for a few weeks!
What designer do you turn to for work basics? What does "business casual" mean to you? And more importantly: are you surprised to hear my news?
It's been a while since I had to wear conservative work clothes but I used to get a lot at JCrew and Ann Taylor. Just buy a few pairs of black and gray pants and wear colorful tops to keep your personality incorporated. As for shoes, do they have a closed toe policy? If so, TB Revas are good year-round.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the new gig!
KK
I really like Ann Taylor and J.Crew (hahaha we are all going to say that) and my mom really likes Talbots and Nordstrom. Congrats on the job though, it sounds great!
ReplyDeletexx Emily @ laughliveandshop.blogspot.com
Lori!
ReplyDeleteI am so excited for your new adventure! I work in higher ed, which really runs the gamut. However, I work in a very conservative department of the college and I am often off campus building relationships with businesses in our community. I wear Lilly everyday. Seriously, I wear a little piece of happy everyday. It may be an accessory put with a navy suit from wherever, or Lilly head to toe, but it's important for me to feel like me. Get a few really great conservative staples and then add the fun of who you are into your work wardrobe. I can't wait to see what you come up with!!
All the best,
Katie
Congratulations! So proud of you and happy for you. (I myself have been out of work for way too long and am very frustrated by it.) When I did work, most of work wardrobe was from Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, and/or J. Crew.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck on your new adventure!!!
ReplyDeleteCongrats!!! I wear a lot of ann taylor, j. crew, tory burch and of course still Lilly! You just have to find the right Lilly pieces. The Julianna is perfect for work and also the Jonah depending on the pattern. Business casual is usually slacks and some sort of sweater or cardigan for me.
ReplyDeleteMy favorites for work basics are: Banana Republic, J. Crew, Elie Tahari, Brooks Brothers, The Limited.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your new job!
I tend to wear Kate Spade to work & Lilly while at play. I have a few KS heels which I can stand in all day & run around campus (college professor), so you know they are comfy. They are pricey but if you invest in the more versatile shoe staples then you can pair it with everything. I like KS dresses because you don't often have to cover them with cardis & they are just as chic as suits. There are tons of sample sales & once you're in the KS loop you get the extra percent/extra dollars off deals all the time. Bottomline: don't lose your color & your personality. Your coworkers will appreciate seeing something cheery everyday as long as the level is at the same business casual as their drabby grays!
ReplyDeleteOne good thing is b/t all the conservative colors you can use Lilly as your pop of color such as a button-down under your suit coat or a fun scarf. Good luck
ReplyDelete:)
Congrats on the new job!
ReplyDeleteWow, Lori--Congratulations!!! :) I dress much more conservative at my job now than I did at past places. I wear a lot of Murfees and Elsas to kick up the color a bit when my black pants/grey dresses are just too too boring. Can't wait to hear more about the job (and of course wardrobe) soon. :)
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