After a full two (or is it three?) years in the advertising field I've been building up my workwear while sticking to my budget. Although my office is pretty lax when it comes dress code I just feel, work, and crush it better when dressed for the part.
Fake it til you make it right?
There are so many side projects I've undertaken besides decluttering & decorating my apartment, that I really need to stick to a budget while I build out my workwear essentials. Not only that, we're smack dab in the middle of the holiday craze. Sticking to a budget is key if you want to make out of December with your savings account still intact.
For me, personally, I try my best to get most of holiday shopping done during Cyber Week and now that I'm building out my workwear I kept my eyes peeled for any essentials on mega discount.
One of the stores I've made a pitstop on during that week was Old Navy - they've had my heart since high school thanks to affordable and colorful fleeces. So, after scooping up some sweaters for the fam, I scoped out their site for any workwear basics for myself. Everything was so well-priced that when I hit their "confirm purchase" button I didn't have a heart attack. In the end, I got a few basic turtlenecks, knit sweaters (all in neutral colors), printed trousers, and a pair of culottes.
I am ALL about the culottes after seeing them on my friend OJ and CIGS and definitely wear them more than I've posted on the blog. The pants have a voluminous shape which is all sorts of flattering on my frame. I've paired them with crop tops, fitted bodysuits, and billowy blouses when feeling adventurous. These from Old Navy are pretty thick in fabric for the price, look & feel great. Highly recommend as anyone's culottes starter as they are now listed for $13.97 but make sure to size down.
Sunglasses: Ray-ban Turtleneck: Old Navy Pants: Old Navy Coat: Planet London Boots: Zara (similar) Necklace: Custom (make your own here) Purse: Shana Luther Lipstick: Cranberry Cream via Clinique
Last time I wore these culottes to the office the temperature dipped a bit so I paired it with a neutral turtleneck and glossy black boots. The total outfit is under $100 which keeps me within budget. Each piece I've scored has ended up becoming a great workwear addition and I'm confident I'll be able to wear them all in more ways than one.
Now, let's chat workwear. What do you consider a must-have?
Photos by Lydia Hudgens.
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