Can you believe that 2016 is right around the corner? Although the holiday season coming to an end is always bittersweet, there are so many things to look forward to when a new year arrives. For 2016, I am specifically going to be focusing on my career goals. One way to impress any employer is by your attitude and appearance. Personally, I know that I do my best work when I feel comfortable and confident in what I’m wearing and how I present myself. I’ve listed my Top 5 wardrobe essentials that you can wear multiple times with different outfits, for any workplace environment.
Black Blazer
Whether you have an interview, presentation, or anything business related, a black blazer is always a necessity. The tailoring is key, so make sure to get one that fits properly on your shoulders and doesn’t pull in the back when the buttons are done up. I’d go for a standard black blazer before purchasing others in different colours and fits – you’ll always find an effortless way to wear a black blazer before a red one! One of my favourite pieces in my closet is my Babaton Peter Jacket – PS. it’s on sale right now for Boxing Day!
Slim Fit Trousers
Classic, clean, and comfortable – the three C guidelines to always follow when finding the perfect pair of trousers. I always choose a slim fit so that I’m able to wear them with flats, heels, or boots. I also find that it’s easier to dress down a slim fit in case your work place has a casual dress day. Zara is always my go-to when it comes to pants because they always have a wide variety of colours and patterns such as these Double Fabric Trousers.
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats – because Mondays are hard enough in heels. I’m in love with these Scalloped Ballet Flats by Lauren Conrad and all of the colour options. I’m torn between the rose gold and the wine colour – what’s your favourite? Check out the rest of her line for Kohl’s but be careful, contents are highly adorable. I warned you!
White Oxford Shirt
A classic white oxford shirt – need I say more? Again, the tailoring for a dress shirt is very important so make sure it fits properly! I’ll always spend a little bit more for a structured shirt, but I’m super impressed with Joe Fresh’s Washed Oxford Shirt. Always ensure that your shirt is properly ironed because a wrinkled shirt never passes. As soon as I wash one of my shirts, I always iron it and hang it in my closet. That way it’s ready to go on those busy work day mornings.
Bucket Bag
Love it or hate it, the bucket bag is here to stay (at least for a little longer). I had my eye on a Mansur Gavriel and it may or may not have been my phone background for the few weeks that I was creating every rationalization as to why I needed this bag. Sure enough, my internal financial advisor kicked in and I chose to forgo the beautiful mini bucket bag. Thankfully, I found this Kelsi Dagger Brooklyn Dusen Bucket Bag for a quarter of the price to fill the void, and I couldn’t be happier! This is the perfect bag to spruce up any office outfit when you have evening plans after work.
1. Aritzia: Babaton Peter Jacket – $295
2. Zara: Double Fabric Trousers – $45
3. Kohl’s Scalloped Ballet Flats – $40 – $50
4. Joe Fresh: Washed Oxford Shirt – $39
5. Urban Outfitters: Kelsi Dagger Brooklyn Dusen Bucket Bag – $210
By Claire Aiello, Toronto, @claire_aiello
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