10 KEY PIECES TO WEAR TO WORK JCPenney 15% OFF Sitewide + FREE Shipping JCPenney offers 15% OFF Sitewide + FREE Shipping On $99+ orders. Shop and get JCPenney 10 Off 25 Now!!! If you’ve entered the workforce in the past 10 years, chances are you’ve always dressed casually on the job. But now the trend is shifting back to more professional career wear, so it’s time to take a new look at how you’re presenting yourself. Your attire definitely affects how you’re perceived at the office, but it also can change your own attitude. Slip on a tailored jacket, and you’re instantly in business mode—serious, responsible and focused. And the higher you go in a company—or the higher you want to go—the more polished you’re expected to be. Keep your main pieces classic, and use shoes and accessories to add a trendy, fun vibe when appropriate. Tailor your choices to your company’s culture. If you work in a law firm, you should always look like you’re ready for court. If you work for a fashion-related company, your outfit should convey that you’re trend-aware. If your workplace is more laid-back, keep the top part of your look classically professional, but tone it down with clean denim or classic skinny twill pants. Yes, casual Friday still exists, but on a different level. Instead of distressed jeans, a t-shirt and sneakers, it’s dressy dark denim, a pretty top and a sharp jacket. A good guideline is to look in the mirror each morning before you leave for work and ask yourself two questions—do I look professional and would my attire be distracting to anyone?
Need help revamping your work wardrobe? Start with 10 key pieces and build from there:
1.
Black sheath dress Look for one that fits well, with a high neckline and a hemline that ends just above the knee. Don’t be afraid to mix it up. Try it with a cardi or jacket, or add a blouse to create a romper effect.
2.
Crisp white shirt Another go-with-anything piece. It brings a sharp, focused feel to your look.
3.
Crewneck sweater Just as a cardigan is a more casual version of a tailored jacket, a crewneck sweater is a relaxed alternative to a blouse. Pair it with a jacket or cardi, and you’re perfectly pulled together for the office. The crewneck sweater is the new modern. It’s a classic look that’s totally current when paired with a pleated skirt.
4.
Cozy A long, open-front cardigan is an on-trend, work-appropriate alternative to the more structured look of a tailored jacket. Adding a third piece is key to making a top with pants or skirt look more polished. The cozy is the perfect modern approach to your casual Friday look—simple, elevated, yet comfortable.
5.
Classic neutral pants Black or gray pants complement virtually everything. Look for classic details, stretch fabric and the perfect modern fit, such as skinny ankle pants or wideleg trousers.
6.
Pencil skirt A high-waist pencil skirt is universally flattering and totally work-appropriate. It can be black or any other color, even patterned.
7.
Classic black jacket Whether you’re wearing pants, a skirt or even a dress, a classic black jacket always elevates your look. It’s infinitely versatile, and no one will realize that you’re wearing the same jacket countless different ways. Keep it handy, as you never know when you’ll be called into an important meeting.
8.
Layering cami In the workplace, you always want to dazzle with your talents and expertise, never with your cleavage. A simple, clean-lined cami is your best friend when it comes to low-cut necklines or semi-sheer tops. Start with neutrals such as white, cream, taupe and black, then add pops of color to suit your wardrobe.
9.
Classic 2½” pump This should be a neutral color like black, gray or nude. You want a bit of height, but not so much that you can’t walk gracefully. This is your go-to shoe for the most polished look, but it’s also fine to be more adventurous with your footwear. Higher heels are fine with pants or a long skirt; ballet flats pair well with ankle pants or fuller skirts.
10. Bow blouse A blouse with a bow keeps the attention on your face, so your colleagues focus more on your words. Tie the bow in different ways to create multiple looks. The blouse can be any color or a subtle print like a pinstripe, mini-dot or foulard.