From first-hand experience (as a management consultant in the corporate world) and from living and working in a downtown business core, I regularly observe women who make the WRONG decision when it comes to summer skirts/dresses for work. I know you’ve seen it too…. women on their way to work, off to an important meeting, or on a lunch meeting wearing skirts/dresses that are WAY too short. Why do some women do this? Don’t they feel uncomfortable? Aren’t they aware that their blazer has more material than that itty-bitty skirt/dress? Don’t be this lady! To ensure YOU’RE not the one making this major fashion faux pas in the office, following my top style suggestion: Even on hot summery days, you’re still a professional working in a professional environment! Feel free to wear whatever you’d like on casual evenings or weekends, however, when it comes to business, you simply can’t afford to have the hem of your skirt/dress rise too high. Why, you ask? Do I really need to say why? Well, I will…. It’s unprofessional. Whether you work for in an organization, non-profit, or for yourself, a really short skirt doesn’t really give the impression that you are a serious professional. Don’t let this happen to you! It says that “I don’t really care about getting that promotion.” When you show too much leg (or cleavage for that matter), you letting others know that they should look at what you’re wearing… or not wearing… rather than listen to the brilliant things you’re saying. Women who excel in their careers – whatever career that may be – generally do so by building and showing off their ‘substance’, not their legs. You should want to attract the ‘right’ type of attention, not the ‘wrong’ kind of attention. Unfortunately, we ladies are judged more than men are in the workplace… we’re judged by our hairstyles, by the colour of our lipstick, or by how high our heels are (or aren’t). It’s wise to not add to the uphill battle by wearing an ultra-short skirt/dress. These are just a few of MANY reasons but, I think you get the picture. To keep things appropriate, professional, and stylish, I’ve picked a few chic pieces for you. Enjoy! Diane Von Furstenberg- Esme Pencil Skirt 10 Crosby Derek Lam Striped Pencil Skirt Malene Birger- Dalise Print Shift Dress MANGO- Straight Cut Drape Skirt Alexander McQueen- Fine Knit Wool Dress Happy Wednesday!
5 Key Items for that Last (boo-hoo) Summer Jaunt
Summer is quickly coming to an end BUT the weather is still in full sunshine/heat mode (lucky us)! Now is the perfect time to start planning that last summer jaunt. Where you should go and what you should do is always a fun debate (unless you hate planning… then this part really is no fun) but how to look stylish while packing light can sometimes be stressful. You really don’t need a big suitcase full of clothes to look stylish, be comfy and stay cool. For that last summer week away (the September long weekend is quickly approaching), here are 5 key items that you’ll surely want to pack: Item #1 Cali Stripe Tank Why you should pack this in your suitcase: This is a great, comfy piece to wear over a bathing suit, with a pair of shorts or under a cozy sweater (if it’s a little cool at night). This type of tank is a great go-to because it’s light-weight and has fairly neutral colours. Item #2 Vintage Whisper Maxi Dress Why you should pack this in your suitcase: You will be effortlessly stylish in this dress. To your tussled hair, add some cool shades and a pair of red thong sandals (faux leather would look great with this dress). Effortlessly stylishs for sure! Item #3 Canvas Boat Shoe Why you should pack this in your suitcase: These shoes will go with any outfit you take on this last summer getaway. I especially like them an early evening dress on a patio… when the air is a bit cool (yes, that’s the first sign of Fall you feel). Item #4 Rachelle Trouser Short Why you should pack this in yoru suitcase: This is a great short for day hikes when you know you’ll be on a patio sipping a lovely beverage afterwards. With these shorts, you definitely won’t have to sacrifice style for comfort and functionality! These may be the only shorts you need for this last getaway! Item #5 Jena Buttons Cardigan Why you should pack this in your suitcase: You’ll definitely want to have something that has long sleeves for the evenings. For an evening walk, pair it with sandals, a contrasting coloured tank and shorts. This is also great to snuggle up with a book and a glass of lovely wine! I am definitely one to soak up all that summer has to offer and can’t wait to do so with these fun, stylish items!
Fun Looks for that Summer Getaway
It’s the middle of this hot summer (well at least it’s hot for some people this summer) and you’re off to a fun summer destination… think Kelowna or the Muskokas (or the equivalent in your neck of the woods)! What is one to pack besides the usual hiking gear, sports-wear and essential bikini?? Here are some fun summer options that are easy to throw on yet give you that “I-look-fabulous” kind of vibe. Remember, it’s summer so have fun with these looks! 1. A Day of Wine Tasting Cali Striped Shelf Cami Dress, Bloomingdales.com Accessorize with: This is a fun yet cool summer pick and perfect for a summer patio of wine tasting (in the Okanagan or Niagara on the Lake perhaps). I’d accessorize it with a pretty thong sandal, a delicate gold bracelet and some cool aviator shades. Accessory Pick Emmy Thong Flat Sandals, Shopbop.com 2. Walking Around Town Silk Vest, Farfetch.com and ‘Auris’ Shorts, Farfetch.com Accessorize with: I love this casual, pleated short. With a bright-coloured top, it’s a versatile outfit that can be worn to discover new restaurants, hang out at summer festivals, or take a stroll along a waterfront boardwalk. You can accessorize it with a funky pair of sunglasses, a fedora and dark leather, strappy sandals (I’d opt for flats if you’ll be walking all day). Accessory Pick Bordeaux Sunglasses, Farfetch.com 3. Casual Dinner Out Adalyn Pleated Maxi Dress, Shopbop.com Accessorize with: I’d keep it simple and let this special dress speak for itself. You could accessorize it with oversized sunglasses and wedge heels (try something in a matte red or subtle gold pattern). Accessory Pick Oversized Shades, zappos.com Always remember to keep the most important accessory handy- SUNBLOCK! If you have any style questions about these looks or other summertime fun looks – let me know!