Truth: I’ve never had a job where I had to get dressed up for work. I’ve only ever owned one suit- and it was for an interview. (And side note: during that interview I had to teach a sample lesson to a class and my suit got caught on a chalkboard easel and ripped a hole Right. In. My. Bum). So yeah. Me and suits don’t have the best history. But I can’t help but drool a little when I see all of these working moms rocking their power slacks, heels, blazers when walking their kids into preschool drop off. I don’t know how they do it – BALANCE it all nor walk a kid into preschool with HEELS on? I’m seriously impressed. So while I don’t have a traditional job, I love fashion and I’ve had a bunch of readers ask for more work wear fashion. Ask and you shall receive. I’ll be doing several installments of #workwearwednesday to provide a little office cubical inspiration to help you break out of a rut or maybe try something new. We’re starting this week with the basics. For most people, “work wear” reads: black pants, white button down. This week we’ll kick off #workwearwednesday with a black pants challenge.
*All images are clickable and will take you directly to the shopping link!
Challenge 1:
Throwing on a statement necklace might be the easiest way to dress up a bland office look. Tip: If the necklace is short and rests on your collar bones, let it lay directly on your skin and layer your shirt on top. It’s a little more subtle when you allow it just to peek through.
Challenge 2:
Another easy way to spice up black pants, is to add a fun shoe. A bold statement shoe can transform a hum drum outfit by adding color and eye catching details (like laces). Personally I would never be able to wear heels all day, so I included some flat options as well. And more bang for your buck, most of these styles pair great with denim for a weekend look.
Challenge 3:
Add some dimension to your work wear look by adding an interesting layer. Textured knits, drapey wraps, structured capes, faux fur collared vest – these are all perfect options for adding some excitement to your top half, especially when you are wearing something simple on the bottom.
Challenge 4:
This might be my current favorite way to jazz up black pants. Adding a silk neck tie is 100% Parisian Chic! It’s slightly unexpected, but completely on trend and adds color and interest to any simple outfit. Here is a bunch of ways to tie those neckerchiefs (and for the weekend, try tying it around your wrist or even in around a top knot). Anthropologie nailed it with their necklace/scarf combo (pictured in center)! And it’s another one of those pieces that translates into weekend wear. That’s code for: Chambray, Military Vest, Black Leggings, Boots…. and of course that necklace scarf. A scarflace we shall call it 😉 A faux fur stoll or skinny scarves are totally work appropriate options too. Here are a bunch of ways to tie those skinny scarves (I love the bow for work!).
Challenge 5:
Finally, break out of the trouser black pant rut! Try a new cut or a style for a fresh new look whether it be culottes, sailor waist, slouchy (and how comfy do they look?) or even a tie waist.
I took a few of these challenges for a test run in my “home office”:
Wearing:
I would LOVE to see your take on work wear sooooo….. when no one is looking 😉 , take an office selfie, tag @themotherchic and use #themotherchicstyle on Instagram so we can see some of these looks in action!
You can shop all of these items in my new
Work Wear Boutique!
Want some more #workwearwednesday inspiration? I’ve teamed up with a bunch of other bloggers who are also sharing their take on black pants. Go check them out!
andrea
January 27, 2016 at 11:27 amGreat outfit ideas! You look super cute
Tamara DeWire
January 27, 2016 at 11:54 amI LOVE this post! Great ideas! I have the mint Baublebar beads and it definitely adds a “wow” factor! Love your shoe picks too!
Kristin
January 27, 2016 at 8:59 pmYes! So many fab options. Love them with the layers!
Ellen ThatChicMom
January 28, 2016 at 1:37 pmThose are some great looks, love the alternative black pants options!
Carly
January 28, 2016 at 1:48 pmgeez lousie I love those lace up flats. I never pulled the trigger but think I might for spring..they just add an instant COOL factor. Thanks for doing this feature with me!
C
Shannon Marie
February 2, 2016 at 9:34 pmOh my gosh, I LOVE all the options!! Pinning and saving for later! Such great ideas 🙂