Related Posts Widget for Blogs by LinkWithin

Wednesday, March 31

square shouldered


i often struggle with having a wardrobe that is conservative enough for my professional needs, yet still playful and representative of my personal style. i want to be taken seriously, but i still want to be myself. {my girl kindredly and i were just talking about this the other day, actually.} it is often a difficult line to find, but a challenge that i have enjoyed facing, none the less. it's actually part of the reason that i started this blog...


the combination of a high-waisted skirt and a structured top always makes me feel more professional and put together. i usually try to stick to neutrals like black and gray for a more polished look, especially when including an item with studs or grommets.

when it comes to accessories, i tend to wear one larger statement type piece with basic hoops or pearls {though i wouldn't call my menswear watch a "statement" piece, you get the idea.} i also usually like to have my nails painted a fun but neutral color, so today i went with a neutral pink.

top, f21; skirt, h&m; pumps, nine west (old); watch, target (men's section); essie van d'go polish

what are your secrets for maintaining your style yet conforming to a conservative profession/dress code?

xoxo

ps. stay tuned for an exciting announcement later this week!
it may or may not involve winning something. <3



copyright Hiking in Stilettos

11 comments:

Arlynn said...

Love the ensemble you've crafted - it is a great balance between personal balance & professionalism, lovely!

We actually just went to an all-business casual dress code, where we can potentially wear jeans every day. I certainly feel like this allows me to express myself more effectively. I still opt to wear some of my cute business clothes, but now I can wear a fun pair of jeans too! I like to match a pair of dressier dark washed jeans (usually skinny or boot cut) with a flirty blouse, jacket & statement jewelry - usually a great cocktail ring or big earrings.

I have to admit... it feels great waking up on a Monday & just slipping into a favorite pair of jeans for the workday :-)

ashley said...

I have that shirt too! Did we buy that one together in late 09? It's one of my faves and looks great without something under it (I've been wearing it as sort of a vest for work).

You look awesome. Did the black "pearl" one not go with the skirt?

I love those shoes, and I'm sad they're old.

I love how we have so many of the same pieces in our closets. It means I have fabulous taste! :)

Anonymous said...

STORY OF MY LIFE. I'm still trying to figure out how exactly to look professional and still feel like me. I wear a lot of neutral colors, but I've been known to wear a hot floral top or colorful cardigan.

Let me know if you think of anything good.


unravelledthreads.blogspot.com/

McMel said...

i love it!! that top is awesome!

Blair McLeod said...

perfectly stylish and professional. you rock it!

Found your blog while blog-hopping around! loving it -- just became a follower!

wild-and-precious.com

Kb_Mal said...

I am about to change jobs - to a place with a more professional workplace. My husband reminded me the other day that I should probably start thinking of ways to still be unique but not dress too wild. I think your outfit is a great example of how it can be done!

Katy
www.lifefulfilledatlanta.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

I know what you mean about having to be taken seriously while still dressing fashionably. I'm an engineering student...

Anyway, awesome outfit (love the grommet/stud detailing) and I like those shoes!

ps. if ya have time please check out my blog:
http://diyainherstilettos.blogspot.com/

Claire Kiefer said...

I really, really love those shoes!

Natalie Call said...

I feel the same way! I am an elementary school teacher. I know the kids like to see that a teacher can be hip and that they dont' all wear sweaters with things hanging off of them; but I don't know about their parents.

I love what you have put together here. These shoes are. to. die. for!

Valerie said...

Love your outfit. It's the perfect balance between being professional and still having some style. I agree that this is something I struggle with daily! I envy my friends who work in places where they can wear jeans, open toed shoes, basically whatever they want, etc.

Unknown said...

Despite our multiple exchanges on this exact topic, I still find myself struggling every day. It's gotten to the point where I'm not sure I want a "big girl" job any more but at the same time I have no idea what I really like to wear.