Nikki’s Inbox: Called to the Dean’s Office
I recently landed an internship working for the Dean of my college, which is super, but since I work either directly before or after my classes, I’ve had to seriously reconsider my style. My friends have teased that now I dress like someone’s mom and while I do need to keep things somewhat professional now (nothing low cut), I really would love to stay stylish and young!
My typical style is a kawaii dress and a blazer paired with leggings and boots. My body type is definitely slim but with wide hips that I hide under high-waisted skirts. I adore wearing black and white.
Please help me!
Callie, 20/New York, USA
Happy New Year, Callie my dear! And congratulations on landing an awesome internship! Those kawaii dresses you mentioned don’t seem like something a mom would wear so I’m curious to know what kind of office wear you’ve transitioned into for this job. You didn’t say, but I’m guessing it’s something along the lines of a pantsuit à la Hillary Clinton. If that’s the case, you shouldn’t have much trouble changing your look. Simply add one or two youthful pieces based on my tips to update your look easily!
Step One: What’s Everyone Else Wearing?
Take a look at what other colleagues and interns are wearing at the Dean’s office? Suits and ties? Fancy tops with formal bottoms? Or just simple basics in neutral colors? You might want to dress more similar to your office peers than the Dean who’s likely to be in a suit all day due to the nature of his/her work. Is everyone else suited up too?
What do your colleagues wear to work?
Step Two: Not All Suits Are Boring
Okay, so let’s say you’re stuck with the blazer and formal bottoms combo. They don’t all have to be boxy and boring! Look for pieces with extra detailing to add chic to your look. A blazer with a ruffled peplum detail or a blouse with a bow or mandarin collar go a long way. Pay attention to the tailoring to avoid a stiff look. The blazer should fit well and, unless you’re going for a business formal look, should have no padding at the shoulders. Skirt suits are very vogue and pencil skirts should hit just above the knees. Pants should be tapered or wide (but not flared) for corporate vogue.
Step Three: Alternative Combos
If a suit isn’t your only option, try mixing your formal pieces with something easier, like a sweater paired with tapered pants or a long-sleeved dress topped with a blazer or cardigan. A loose chiffon blouse is still smart but much more relaxed than a button-down. You’ll still look pulled together but a little closer to your age.
Step Four: Add Color!
Black and white are key colors in office wear (and your favorite colors!) but will get boring very quickly when you wear them every day. A pop of color refreshes your outfit and makes stiff pieces like pencil skirts instantly youthful so you look less awkward in the classroom. A tangerine pencil skirt or a sky blue dress will make sure you don’t look like anyone’s mom! (Style the breezy dress with a tights, a black long-sleeved tee and a chunky angora knit cardigan to stay warm.)
The best part about these looks are the separates – if you invest in the right ones, they can double as chic pieces in your usual wardrobe, even after you’ve served your term at the Dean’s office! Best of luck on your internship and let me know which outfit you liked best! Let’s all start a fabulous year of style this 2012!
Nikki
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Tags: blazer, blouse, internship, officewear, pencil skirt, suit
