Today is May Day or International Workers’ Day, a day that commemorates the fight for the eight-hour work day. During those 8 hours (not including commute time, which may or may not include comfy flats), you’re probably wearing clothes you wouldn’t otherwise opt to wear. Let’s face it, workwear kind of has a bad rep for being bland and drab. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Workwear can be fun and colorful! Over the last year, I’ve maintained a Pinterest board for inspiration on what to wear to work, which has helped me put together outfits when I worked as a college instructor. Through my clothing, I’ve tried to communicate an image of approachability and creativity – two important qualities for any teacher to portray. My motto echoes Diane Von Furstenberg’s “Feel like a Woman, Wear a Dress.” And needless to say, most of my work outfits were sheath or shift dresses (still looking for the perfect wrap dress!). Here are my favorite picks from my Wear to Work board:
The floral blazer:
I love floral blazers – florals add a fun element without compromising on formality. However, I haven’t invested in a floral blazer yet. Truth be told, it’s hard for me to find the right blazer; I’m petite and anything with shoulder pads makes me look like I stepped out of an 80s romcom.
Ruffles:
Like the floral blazer, ruffles add a feminine touch to workwear while still maintaining an aura of professionalism. The red pencil skirt (is it tweed?) neatly completes the look.
The Belted Sheath Dress:
You’ve probably seen this image of Miranda Kerr wearing a Victoria Beckham V-neck Sheath Dress around Pinterest. There are many great things about this dress. It has an unexpected neckline and length – hitting just below the knee. This is not your ordinary sheath dress, and that’s what makes so great. I have been looking everywhere for a similar one. On a side note, I love the chocolate brown accent belt wrapped around the white dress.
The Easygoing Olsen Look:
Elizabeth Olsen cleverly shows how dressing up for work can look casual with a monochrome color scheme, straight leg pants, platform sandals, and a loose-fitting blazer. The picture on the right shows a more colorful alternative with printed pants and striped shirt. Which look do you prefer?
