Week of Personal Style: Corporate Chic

I was in a state of serious denial when I realized my style was corporate-ish American classic – ask anyone who knew me at 13 and I would have rather died my hair black and worn satanic crosses under my uniform at my all-girls Catholic school than have someone tell me I'd be dressing office-appropriately. But after taking a look at recent shopping spree receipts and glancing at the pile of clothes growing on my ironing board, I realized something — I've gone office chic — and I'm ok with that. My name is Christine and I work in corporate America. Whew! Glad to get that off my chest.

So how do I manage to play up the fact that I have style under strict dress code? I wear a simple black sheath dress with a wide funky croc belt, opaque black tights, and super high oxford peep-toe pumps. Technically I'm dressed just the same as the CEO's secretary only my tights aren't sheer, my belt is 3 inches wider, and my shoes are 3 inches taller. It's like new-age office chic.

 

Take my word for it – get this black knee-length sheath dress ($89). It's the most well-fitting plain black work dress I've bought in years. And buy small if you run between sizes. The belt is detachable and has become my new favorite to wear over grandpa cardigans. No girl can live without a pair of ultra-opaque wool Wolford tights ($52). Kill two fashion trends with one stone (oxfords and peep-toe) and grab these chic 5" oxford peep toe pumps in patent leather ($190).

Now, a lesson in looking chic in a cardigan ($70): bright colors are key, and this season, it's purple. Grab a huge oversized beaded necklace in matching hue ($50) and a pair of wide-legged super long houndstooth pants with cute button details ($265).