What to Wear to Work This Fall

Now that you have an idea of the shoes that would look best for fall--no matter where you're stepping out to, you'll need to know what to wear to office. Finding chic yet appropriate attire is easier than ever before, and sometimes the right color is all you need to give a work outfit that extra pop that it needs. After all, if you have to sit behind a desk all day, you might as well be able to see some great fashion choices every time you look down:)



While gray has also been an office staple, try pairing this neutral shades with brighter colors for the fall. Purple looks great with great, and you can visit your local department store for business separates that will give your office look some professional flare. A gray pencil skirt with a silk purple 'secretary' top (think the flowing tops that tie at the top--BCBG has tons of them!) is flattering on just about any body type. Or if you want to go for more of a monochromatic look in the office, you can purchase a purple coat to add a splash of color when you pick up for your lunch break, or travel for a meeting.



Ruby red also looks great with black and gray suits. Although I would avoid wearing this shade during the holidays, so as not to look like a Christmas ornament. A muted color like gray will make this shade of red come alive, so try charcoal-colored slacks for this look. And please, PLEASE don't try to match your lipstick with the shirt. Not only will you look like your mouth is bleeding, but if you choose a red that doesn't match with the undertones in your skin, no amount of bronzer will make this look work. And, your teeth will look slightly yellow. Not good.



If you choose a dress in a bold color for work (make sure this is acceptable for where you work--some coroprate establishments still rely on the 'power colors'--black, navy blue, and gray) you should go with a pair of tights that are not as 'outspoken.' Turqouise is big this fall, and if you choose a dress in this color, black tights will almost always be appropriate. However, make sure that you wear black shoes with these tights to elongate your legs and create more of a polished look. Just because you have on a blue dress doesn't mean you have to get the pumps to 'match.'



There are some great examples of cool fall and winter wear at Nordstrom this season--visit http://www.nordstrom.com/ to find a store, or to order online. If you want to find unique pieces that will give your work look more of a vintage feel, you can visit your local thrift or consignment shop, or find some great deals on http://www.1abccloseouts.com/used.htm

And now, it's time to take my own advice and make a run to the consignment store for a brooch that will go great with a blouse that is definitely going to get the right attention at a client meeting. More tips are coming soon; until then, stay cool--and pink:)

Trendy Winter Wear

It's hard to believe that summer is over--which means that it's time to start finding ways to look fabulous even in cold weather. Even though you'll be showing less skin in the winter, you can still be trendy, sexy--and age-appropriate. And what better way to do that than with an eye-catching pair of shoes? Here are a few you may want to try, as well as links to great stores that will offer you reasonable prices on shoes you've just got to have this winter.

One of the biggest shoe trends for the winter are thigh-high boots. If you wear lots of jeans, suede winter boots will compliment the denim well. And, no, you're not going to look like a low-budget hooker in these boots if you know how to pair them with the right clothing. Short cocktail-style dresses are a perfect clothing accessory for these shoes, since many of these dresses flare on the bottom to make the look a little more innocent. You could even pair the dress with a fitted leather jacket, which makes the outfit great for day or night. Check out this link for Louis Vuitton boots for style inspiration. http://www.louisvuitton.com/web/flash/index.jsp;jsessionid=ITP3HGJJCHXH2CRBXUCFAFIKEG4RAUPU?buy=1&langue=en_US&direct1=home_entry_us

Visit your local mall to find booties and boots from Aldo. The store makes some great leather and suede fits for the colder weather, and many of the shoes will last you into the next season. If you've looking for a pair of casual boots that you can wear when you're running errands, check out the Driskell variety, which is available in both black and brown. Boots for a dressier occasion include the Sebo, but these look great with jeans, too. http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/women/boots

And, if you're already on your way to Target to pick up more school supplies for the kids, or to purchase some new kitchen appliances, stop by the shoe section. I know you're saying 'Target? You want me to go to Target to find shoes I won't be embarrassed to walk in? " And my answer is 'yes.' Brands like Mossimo have long been a mainstay at the store, and the designer has come up with lots of leather and suede booties and high boots that you're really going to love. And you'll love the prices even more. If you go in the store with a $50 shoe budget, you just may find a stunning pair of boots--and a sandal for next season. http://www.target.com/Womens-Shoes/b/ref=nav_t_spc_5_icn_0_0/185-0804916-6711354?ie=UTF8&node=1041816

Well, that's all for now. I've clearly been inspired by my shoe findings, so perhaps the next blog will contain some of my findings. Until then, ladies, stay cool--and pink:)

Great Accessories

Ok, so by this time, everyone is feeling the 'heat' of the recession (yes, that's what it is) in one way or another. But your fashion doesn't have to suffer because of it! There are a number of great places to get some cool accessories that will spice up those solid color T's you bought at The Gap two months ago and have no idea how to wear. So, here are some affordable options:

Claire's.
Yeah, I know, all the 12-year-olds shop there to get frosted pink lipstick and stickers, but the earring and rink racks in the store have some pretty cool stuff! You can find chunky cocktail rings that you can wear day or night, or if you're just looking for a pair of hoop earrings that will add an appropriate 'kick' to a work outfit, Claire's has what you need. There is also nickel-free jewelry for those of us that are sensitive:)

Icing.
Again, I realize this Claire's spin-off is home of cheap club jewelry. But, if you put the right pieces together, you can look professional and polished. Try the chunky chains with a fitted turtleneck, or some nice droplet earrings for a semi-formal event. You can come out with some great stuff, and you probably won't spend more than $20.

Macy's.
If you're looking for vintage-inspired jewelry, pay Macy's a visit when they're having one of their big sales. You can find fake pearls of all colors (but don't wear too many, or you may look like you've just come back from Mardi Gras), as well as brooches that you can add to a blazer or sweater for a sophisticated look. In most cases, the sales allow you to purchase items for up to 70 percent off, and the jewelry really looks high quality.

Well, I'm off to find some more places that offer the (cheap) accents you need to make your wardrobe complete. Stay cool--and pink:)