12 Wardrobe Essentials for the professional woman

Hi everyone,

How have you been? Lately, I am very occupied keeping myself busy not to go crazy with this new home confinement lifestyle. Am I making any sense? Anyway, please stay home and safe. This shall pass sooner than we expected (I hope). While we are all working from home, it is also an opportunity to clean up our wardrobe a little bit and get ready to be back to our regular activities. With that said, let’s review the 12 wardrobe essentials for the professional woman.

Before we get started, let’s review some of the colors that are considered neutral since I will be talking a lot about neutral colors throughout this article. However, we will only focus on the darker shades for today.

The white button down shirt : Every woman should have at least one plain white button down in their closet that isn’t too tight or too sheer. The simple white button down is a business staple because of its simplistic elegance. You can pair it with a pencil skirt or a flare pants for a more professional look, or you can tuck it into dark jeans with a blazer for the famous “Casual Friday”.

The Silk blouse: Silk is a breathable, gorgeous fabric that can instantly upgrade any outfit. Whether you’re wearing a white silk blouse or a red silk scarf, you’ll transform your ensemble instantly.

The classic pants: Classic pants in a neutral color (darker shades of neutral) are one of the most versatile items in a boss lady closet. These work wardrobe essentials can be paired with a white button down for a chic look or a silk camisole/blouse for an effortless yet sophisticated ensemble.

The pencil skirt (darker shades of neutral): A knee-length pencil skirt is a staple in the work wardrobe essentials. A pencil skirt hugs the hips to show off a gorgeous silhouette of your lower body. It’s not only attractive and put-together, but it’s also incredibly sexy and powerful. Tuck in a blouse and pair with heels for an outfit that looks good on every woman.

The blazer (darker shades of neutral): A fitted black or navy blazer is all you really need to turn any outfit into a workplace attire. Make sure your blazer is well fitted. If you want a less conventional blazer, go for something that’s longer (rather than bigger). This can create the trendy oversized appearance without looking frumpy. Smart tip: Keep a blazer at work. If you spill coffee on your shirt or have a wardrobe malfunction, you can throw on a black blazer to stay professional and fresh.

The little black dress or navy or cream: A short sleeve dress is so versatile and can be worn alone or along with a blazer or a cardigan. I love going for a bold solid color that can spice up my daily routine. Smart tip: go with a dress that matches the color palette of your company’s brand. You’ll start to embody the brand and show a new layer of commitment to your work through your style.

The cardigan: A versatile cardigan is a must-have for every boss lady closet. Like a blazer, it can instantly dress up a more casual outfit. It can also dress down a fancier outfit, so it can help ensure you always fit right in with the “business casual level” of your environment and still have the “boss lady look”.

The pump shoes in a neutral color (pointed toe / dark shades) or loafers (if flats are preferred): Stilettos are a definite favorite of the boss lady wardrobe but depending of your work environment you may prefer some platform or even some loafers. Black tends to match with most workplaces clothes. I personally prefer the light brown on the women of color better than black (unless you have a cool undertone :-)). However, we also love a pair of nude pumps because they’re casual and professional at the same time. Nude pumps work especially well to dress up work jeans.

The handbag in a neutral color (darker shades / tote or satchel): A quality tote bag or good size satchel is practical, polished, and chic. With lots of space and pockets, you can organize your papers and business cards while still owning the city with your sophisticated style.

The dark Denim :Business casual almost always includes dark denim. That means a pair of dark wash within the rise that fit your body shape the best (low, high, mid rise) are a must for your work wardrobe essentials. Pair with a blouse, blazer, and pumps for a commanding and stylish outfit. Or pair with a sweater or cardigan for a more cozy look.

The Accessories: including but not limited to: nice leather belt in neutral color and watch (stainless or leather bracelet), dainty jewelry (diamond studs & pearls are boss lady approved), sunglasses and silk scarves (neckerchief are so versatile).

Statement Pieces: Don’t forget to show a little bit of your own style in there as we speak a lot of neutral.An accent piece shows off your style and confidence.. If you’re wearing a plain shirt, throw on a large and audacious necklace. If you’re wearing a white blouse with a black blazer and black pencil skirt, throw in a pair of red shoes if you’re feeling bold.

Outfit Details:

Dress (similar here, here) | Belt (similar) | Handbag (similar)

Shoes (similar here, here)| Sunglasses (similar)

Don’t be afraid to stand out in the workplace, because you’re comfortable with the amazing woman you are. The key here is to find the right balance: Remember that clothes are a representation of you. What you wear should show off who you are which is a strong, hard working boss who’s ready to take over the world. So what are your work wardrobe essentials? Let me know in the comment section below.

Thanks for stopping by.

XoXo,

Moumous

Photo Credit @vonvonphotography

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