Little Black Dress - Work to Evening

Here are a few photos from a shoot I did several years ago using a little black dress.  Simple minor accessory changes take it from work to evening. 

This is perfect for work with a great vintage gold belt.  Add a smart jacket and you are all business.



Quick change artist...lose the belt and add a rhinestone brooch and bracelet.  You are ready for a nice dinner, the theater, or whatever.  Keep your classic pumps or exchange them for some strappy metallic sandals.

This little black dress came from Shabby Apple.  Unfortunately, they no longer carry it.  However, you can find the same "Classic Ashley"  dress at http://www.jenclothing.com/ and http://www.stopstaringclothing.com/  Beware...this is a very form fitting dress!  I don't suggest this particular style dress for a curvy woman.  Try something slightly A-line instead. 

FYI on dressing for the workplace... Make sure your little black dress is loose enough and long enough to be office appropriate.  There should be absolutely no visible cleavage.  And if your little black dress doesn't have sleeves, plan to wear a jacket at work.  (When it is appropriate for men to go to work sleeveless, then women can too.  Being sleeveless at the office is a real "authority" killer!) 

Photos by Dirk Olsen.   

 

Work Wardrobe

Is your work wardrobe boring?  It doesn't have to be.  This great work worthy outfit was created from two basic pieces:  a blouse and suit pants.  The black pinstriped straight leg pants were rolled to midcalf.  They were paired with a vintage silk oversized shawl collar blouse, a fabulous statement necklace, a gold link bracelet, and black patton clutch.  Multicolor flats complete the look.  (Flats are a great option for those who work on their feet all day!)

 

Being creative with your wardrobe in the workplace is a positive attribute that will get you noticed...as long as you keep a few of the following things in mind.

1.  Does your company have a dress policy?  If so, what is it?
2.  What type of business do you work in?  Is it corporate, communicative, or creative.  That makes a big difference in what is appropriate in your workplace.  Creative jobs allow for the greatest flexibility and corporate the least. 
3.  Where is your business located?  A small town or a big city...that also makes a difference.
4.  Note what the "stylish" female bosses are wearing, and take a clue from them.

And just because a store sell a garment in the "career" section, doesn't mean it is OK to wear it to work.  A few fashion no-no's for almost all jobs:  see through blouses, anything that looks like lingere, anything too tight, too short, or too low. 

Always remember that adding a third piece (jacket, vest, sweater) kicks the outfit up a notch.  So, start being creative with your work wardrobe and make getting dressed for work each day a great adventure.   Photos by Dominic Van Horn.