High Waisted Pencil Skirt
As you may know, a pencil skirt is a staple in anyone’s wardrobe. Since I tend to be a little bit more on the fancier side of things, a faux leather pencil skirt is my skirt of choice. But I have to be honest though and admit that I never wore skirts until this year (I know crazy eh). I have always opted for separates instead, as finding the perfect length was always difficult for my height and body type. But now that I have, I am obsessed. This length is extremely flattering (even on a short girl like myself) while the slit makes it classy and chic. The versatility of a high waisted skirt is endless; pairing it with a cropped white blouse like I have here, with a bright colour or printed blouse, will take you from office to night out anytime.
Trendy Heels
I absolutely LOVE trendy heels. Now don’t get me wrong, I have some basic pumps that I love just as much but my favourite are always something that is just a little bit different; whether that is a curved or beaded heel, or bright pump. The first thing I always hear when I buy another ‘trendy’ shoe is “how are you even going to wear those?” And the answer is simple, with anything! If you purchase a ‘trendy’ style shoe (like these Sophia Webster’s I have here) in a neutral colour and a traditional pump in a trendy colour (like these classic Manolo’s), they will never go out of style. And it is easier to piece together an outfit than you might think because you are balancing trendy with traditional. I wear both of these Sophia Webster’s and these Badgley Mischka’s with suit separates and let me tell you, it is stunning!
White Button Down
A white button down has been around for decades and will always be a staple in the workplace. Making them one of my favourite pieces to have on hand. They are extremely versatile as they can be paired with literally anything. I do have a few classics on hand but it wouldn’t be me if I told you that I didn’t gravitate to my trendier pieces instead. I prefer one’s that have more detailing as they will elevate even the most simplest looks. If you are ready to step out of your comfort zone with some of my suggestions, this is a great place to start. My go to’s include a button down with either balloon sleeves, off-cut hem lines, or beaded collars/buttons (Zara has some of my favourites). These are my favourite pieces to wear because they are easy to create a tied in look on days where I am just not in the mood to wear jewellery or a lot of makeup. The eyes go directly to the shirt for an effortless, yet chic look that is easy to transition from day to night.
A-Line Coat
As with a classic white button down, A-line coats have been around for decades and I cannot see them going anywhere any time soon. They are so flattering and accent you in all the right places, making you look long and lean (every short girl’s dream). Marie Saint Pierre is my favourite designer when it comes to these types of coats/blazers. Her fabric is impeccable and her style is trendy yet classic. They are extremely versatile and no matter the colour, can be paired with basic separates to create an elegant, yet professional look.
Statement Necklace
For as long as I can remember, statement necklaces have always been a staple in my wardrobe. Whether you are wearing jeans and tee or a suit, a statement necklace will always tie in your look. It always adds a little something extra to polish off any look. This necklace is my favourite that I purchased from a boutique that imports their jewellery from NYC. The best part about these pieces, are that it doesn’t matter the price as long as you take care of it, it will look like a million dollars is hanging from your neck. What I love most about necklaces are that no matter the size, colour, or length, the look always changes.
I get a lot of ‘quick looks’ or comments about my style because it is a bit more edgy than most care to be in the workplace (or in general really). For me, if it comes in a wild colour, print, or have shoes with wings on it, more often than not it is in my cart without hesitation. And honestly, I don’t really mind. I worked in retail for 10 years and we would tell our clients all the time that there are NO rules when it comes to fashion, because I truly don’t believe there is. Your style is a way for you to express who you are without having to speak. And it doesn’t matter how bold the colours may be or if you dare to mix patterns (which I do that too), because as long as you walk in the room with confidence, you can wear anything. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.