office

As you know, all spring and summer stock is up to 60% off...head into a location near you to check out the great deals already in progress.

Do you stare longingly out of your office window (if you have one) at the beaming summer heat and those that wander by in flip flops? No, me neither, I really enjoy the air conditioning...But I must say, I envy the casual wardrobe. This morning sadly, I rode off on my bike so quickly I forgot my work shoes. Thus I must hide my feet all day like they were infectious! In most workplaces, it's just not that cool to wear flip flops to work.  However, there are ways to bring the summer into the workplace without creating two distinct wardrobes.

Blouses are often thought of as something best kept for the office, school or an interview. However, the one above is so pretty, light and offers a wingspan that makes movement (maybe some fun dance moves?)...pretty enticing.

Pencil skirts are such a consistently great option for an office setting. They're easy to pair up and this one specifically fits divinely with abundant stretch. The botanical print is so fresh and summery! And no reason this cannot be part of your weekend wardrobe worn with espadrilles and wide brim hat. (Also has a wonderful matching top)

Graphic t's have become mainstream enough that they appear more and more often in the office. However, choose wisely... the 'NAP QUEEN' or 'FREE HUGS' won't help promote your credibility. Or, maybe date night; change into distressed jeans and heels and (as above) a funky clutch. Still chic but with a sprinkle of fun.

Wanting to keep things simple, comfortable, yet stylish, feminine and professional...this dress crosses over the boundary from workplace to weekend so seamlessly (super stretchy fabrication, shirred back and comfortable length). Seen above with sandals; worn with sling backs or Mary Janes and a lightweight blazer or short cardigan, this will get lots of time outside of the closet!

Summer is here, maybe time off is limited. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the levity of the seasonal wardrobe... light, pretty and often colourful. If in doubt about what is appropriate in your office place, observe what your Supervisor wears...unless he's male, in which case, speak to HR!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

NEW ARRIVALS: Some insider info...no photos available yet but I was able to peruse some of the 'new' stock already in the stores and very soon to come...

• Tencel shirt dresses (one of my fav. fabrics, excellent for this time of year as well)
• Bomber jackets are hot right now...to come, a wonderful knit fabrication...which looks great with...
• gorgeous pencil skirts (not the usual plaid print)...print! ;)
• and a recut of one of the seasons best selling front pleat dresses..new prints!                                                

Just to name a few...  ... read the full post and reader comments

Needless to say Mom's job does not end at 5:00pm....try 5:00am, or 3:00am...whenever needed. A seemingly endless job with no salary (preschoolers make more with their weekly allowance). However then of course, there is the 'outside' job that pays the bills, where an entirely different wardrobe is usually required. The workplace of today is far more transverse than in days past and what was once not appropriate (ie: wearing jeans) has all but changed with sometimes unspoken or unwritten requirements. Then to complicate things, along comes summer and we feel compelled to wear our sandals and tank tops....what are the options? What is acceptable, comfortable...YOU!

Lets have a view at some of Plum's great suggestions for the 'out of the home office' choices:

Wanted: A dress that can be put to work, or taken out for drinks later....position filled. This dress easily works for multiple occasions and presents a very polished look.  Perhaps the office air conditioner is unpredictable or you're on the road at different locations, easily add a jacket or a cardigan to accommodate various environments.

Simone v-neck flared with pockets (white/grey or white/navy) $129

Many work environments now accommodate jeans (or jean day).  However, keeping them on the 'neat' side is usually an unspoken rule or offsetting their worn look with a very sleek contrasting jacket and heels. can make it work.  Accessories possibly should be kept to a minimum unless you're working in a creative field. Don't we all wish our office was out in the sunshine! The scarf adds a bit of individuality without being too distracting. And the linen jacket is such a go to piece for this time of year.

Tobias buttonless linen jacket (black, mustard, white) $179

Perhaps your work place is of the traditional nature. In which case, you feel the need to invest in the ubiquitous trouser. Perfect with a blouse or simple button top and flats or possibly slingbacks.

Tobias slash pocket pant (beige, black or grey) $95

Here is yet another work appropriate dress featuring a lovely, abstract light print. Also great for the Mother's day brunch...you are taking Mom out, aren't you? No pressure! ;)

Numph garland zigzag dress (lavender fog) $145

Not to be outdone by the ubiquitous pant, is the knee length, peg skirt. The skirt is yoga (which is synonymous with comfort). However Plum has other skirt options, pull-on is another great option for ease and comfort, helping retain the feminine feel if this is your goal, along with providing for a day of movement. Paired with this lovely lace blouse, keeps things light and in keeping with the season.

Yoga pegged skirt (rinse indigo) $84

H&D Lace blouse (black or white) $75

Whatever your workplace (home, office or even your car)...finding the right combination of appropriate work wear is important for being able to put your best foot forward and feel comfortable with who you are and where you are. But lets not forget to call Mom to thank her for helping you get where you are, because no doubt she played an important part.

"Being a full time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs...since the payment is pure love." Mildred B. Vermont

Yours in Fashion passion....

Suzanne M.  ... read the full post and reader comments