STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

ILoveChoo · Hermes

Never mind

Ritz · Dooney & Bourke

RE: HELP!!

ILoveChoo · Hermes

do you think my boss would think I was being rediculous if I emailed him back and asked for an explaination? It's not a new job- we're just moving into a new season...up until Wednesday it's been casual dress, so I have no idea what to expact. I know I'm being rediculous, but I literally holding back tears- I'm so sensitive lately and this whole weight gain thing is not helping things...I don't even want to leave the house, let alone have to look professional.

what do you think about the black pants with a pale pink collared shirt and the gray cardigan?

-- Edited by ILoveChoo at 13:37, 2006-12-11

Elle · Hermes

I err on the side of slightly too formal at first, and go with black pants and maybe a button down under the black v-neck sweater and close toe shoes. Or if you have a blouse other than a typical button down that would work with your tweed blazer, I'd throw that on with black pants.

I think you'll have a much better feeling about what is appropriate to wear after a couple days.

sydney · Kate Spade

I tend not to ask - I would stay conservative and watch what others in Management are wearing. It always pays to dress up rather than down. If people can visualize you in your bosses job by the way you dress, you're more likely to be taken seriously and get that next promotion.

I have a conservative profession, but I like to dress funky so it's tough. I find basic black always looks dressier, so I would stick with your back basics until you are able to widen out your wardrobe. Change the color of your tops for a spark of color.

After holiday sales will be a great way to pick up a blazer or two to mix in with the rest of your options. After a week or two, you'll know what "business dress" means for your company and you can buy items that fit with your personality and the company.

-- Edited by sydney at 13:43, 2006-12-11

asf · Kate Spade

don't stress!

when i worked for the leg., i'd only wear suits on session days that i knew i was going to be visible - if i'd have to go to the floor for something, or if i had a meeting with someone important. otherwise, i'd just do a sweater or blouse and pants or a skirt. i'm sure that'd be fine for you, too. also, you've said the other people in your office are super-casual in the off-season, right? i'd bet they translate that over to session, too, and don't wear suits unless they have to. maybe if you can pick up another blazer or two, just in case you want to feel more "professional" than a sweater would make you feel?

is there anyone in your office you're comfortable asking about this? honestly, i'd say you'll be fine working with the pieces you posted above and just mixing and matching.

ILoveChoo · Hermes

See, the thing is that I'm more afraid of being overdressed than underdressed. When I started in July I was told the office was "business casual"- I showed up in a skirt, polo shirt, heels, and pearls and got laughed at for being too dressed. Everyone else was in jeans, logo tees, and birkenstocks. NOT in any way what I'd think business casual is.... I just don't want to be embarrassed.

Elle · Hermes

Then maybe wear a plain tee, black pants, and your blazer (or a cardi), and if you feel overdressed you can remove the blazer (or cardi)?