When it comes to dressing for work, I’m fairly predictable and stick to a uniform, so to speak. I’ve found a handful of staple wardrobe pieces that I often interchange in order to look and feel professional, stylish and comfortable when I’m on showings. If I have to sum up my work style in a few words, I would say it’s classic with a twist. I focus on quality and investment pieces like great blazers, shoes and bags but typically stick to neutral colors that are easy to mix and match with other great basics like tanks, tee’s and sweaters which are more seasonal. Then, when appropriate, I add interesting accessories or a pop of color.
If I was just starting a career in real estate, design or any other field that requires a mix of professionalism and creativity, the below six categories are where I would initially focus my wardrobe budget. You can start with one or two in each category and build from there as you grow with your career and refine your personal style at work.
Above all, have fun with it and enjoy…
- Quality, Structured Blazers: I have Black, Navy, Tan and a few other colors on rotation. Brands I Love: Veronica Beard (looks like Balmain for for a fraction of the cost), Anine Bing, Frankie Shop and Nili Lotan
- Nice Jeans and Trousers: I wear a variety of black, light, dark, and white denim and also have several pairs of well constructed slacks and skirts on rotation for everyday work looks. Brands I Love: L’Agence, Agolde, Veronica Beard, Anine Bing, Nili Lotan
- A Classic Tote Bag-Any simple, high quality tote in black or tan leather will be a great investment and keep you looking polished and organized when carrying your laptop into the office, on showings, etc. Brands I Love: Milaner Italia, Bembien & The Row.
- Sneakers-For those days when you’re showing hillside properties or sitting inspections and you just can’t do heels or platforms, for obvious reasons. Brands I Love: Chanel, Loewe, Nike AirForce One, New Balance. Pro tip-keep them clean….sneakers are acceptable in professional settings, but only if they’re clean.
- Leather or Suede Boots with a Mid Heel- Start with black or tan boots and build your collection from there. There are so many options, styles and brands here so it really depends on what complements the denim/slacks you wear to work. You could choose a western style boot that hits at the ankle or a tall, structured boot that looks great over leggings or jeans. Brands I Love: Celine, Gianvito Rossi, Bottega Lug, Zara and Schutz.
- Fitted Tee’s and Tanks for layering under blazers- I rotate white, gray, tan, black and other neutral colors that I can slip under blazers or button downs. Brands I Love: Toteme, Anine Bing, Nili Lotan, Iro, Zara.
- A Classic, Quality Belt- I have mostly black and brown belts with a mix of gold and silver hardware…choose whatever combo works best with your wardrobe in terms of jewelry and bags. A nice belt should last forever so choose something simple and classic that elevates your look. Brands I Love: Khaite, Toteme, The Row, and vintage.
I sincerely hope that this list gives you a starting place for building a timeless work wardrobe full of classic staples and special pieces that you love and wear time and again…and that make you feel confident and empowered at work and beyond.
xo,
Tara
