Exploring

July 7, 2011
Skirt – JF & Son (last worn here)
Blouse – J.Crew
Hat – H&M
Bracelets – J.Crew, Club Monaco and courtesy of Towne & Reese
Purse – Celine
Heels – Alaia

Industry expectations on style will only hold you back as long as you let them.  To a point, that is.  I’ve stayed true to my workplace “don’ts” like: too tight, too short, too revealing, too messy (keep in mind I blog both work and weekend outfits!) and I like to believe I’ve stayed true to at least one thing: polish.  Even a suit can look unpolished and distasteful (i.e. a too short, too tight wrinkly skirt suit) so it’s not always about whether or not you’re wearing one.  Fit and polish are by far more important.

Before starting my blog I would have never imagined wearing this skirt to the office – nevermind for a team Sales & Marketing Meeting!  But I did exactly that yesterday and felt polished.  And still professional.  A big part of the fun of 9to5Chic for me is exploring my boundaries of “professional.”  Another big part is that I also have weekends and nights to enjoy a lot more fashion freedom too.  As always, thank you for visiting and joining me as I explore.  🙂

P.S.  The hat didn’t actually go to work with me yesterday but the rest of the ensemble did (plus my gray blazer, which is in the Mary Poppins bag).  😉