HELP: best “back to corporate” clothes shopping??? My work clothes now range from home office yoga pants to presentation suits ad I need something in-between.

The request above is a very common dillema.  A woman leaves Corporate America to be at home with the kidos, when she goes back she realizes that her old corporate self/image…is well…not herself. Here are a couple of looks I’d recommend that gives the, “I’m back for business, baby!” look while giving the comfort and ease that your stay-at-home favorites provided: 

P.S. This particular woman is returning to work in the summer. 

The Dress: 

The navy says “business” while the stretch material secretly says, “ahhhhh.” 

V Neck Stretch Sheath, Banana Republic, $130

The Skirt: A pencil skirt with a few modern details shows that you’re still the executive pro…but better! 

Orgami Skirt by Worthington, JC Penny, $27.00

Top: Just because you’re going back to Corporate America doesn’t mean that you need to go back to your same ol’ button-ups. Instead, get something pretty with a smart neckline that will look great under a jacket come fall. 

Daring Dart Top, Anthropologie, $88.00

 The Pant:  This navy trouser is just right: flat front, no pockets and just enough detail with the buttons.  

American Living Pant, JC Penny, $41.99

The Accessories: Don’t ruin all of the effort you’ve put into your getting-back-to-business looks by walking in your first day with an old work bag and shoes.  It would be like presenting a killer presentation without the data to back it up…they’re that important.

Moselle Handbag, Aldo Shoes, $45.00

Savaria Pump, Aldo Shoes, $70.00

admin Career Women, Dressing via Text corporate looks, summer

 I need a statement necklace to jazz up (and add color to) an LBD for a wedding this weekend. Where would you send me for something fabulous, but affordable? 

  

When accessorizing a little black dress (LBD) for a wedding, the first thing you want to take into account whether the event is casual, cocktail, or formal. After learning that this reader’s event was cocktail/formal, I suggested that she head to JC Penny which is pretty easy to get in-and-out from, plus find something spectacular at a great price (none of the necklaces below are over $21.00!):  

Bold Pearl Necklace, $21.00Mixit Chain Necklace with Black Beads, $13.99

Pearl Flower Necklace, $21.

 

 Now, please don’t forget that when all things great go at the top, they must be BALANCED at the bottom.  Meaning: YOU MUST WEAR A KILLER SHOE. You will absolutley ruin all effort put toward your look if you wear a nasty, old looking heel. Here are a couple of shoes that I’d recommend with the items from above.

 
 

M by Marinelli Tanty Jeweled Sandal, $59.95 at DSW

    

Alynda, $118 at Nine West

  

admin Dressing via Text Accessories, LBD, wedding

I am in desperate need of a perfect black blazer/jacket. I just realized this morning. If you spot one in your shopping adventures, would you please send me a shout out?

Black Blazer, New York & Co., $69.99

admin Career Women, Dressing via Text, Mommy-preneur, Plus Size Women, stay-at-home moms Black Blazer, New York & Co., Spring Layers