Tuesday Shoesday: Ankle Strap Heels

1. {Photo/Buy: Revolve Clothing}

Even though I've been quite obviously obsessed with booties lately...aka I accidentally bought a pair of YSL platform booties over MLK weekend...I've also been on the hunt for the perfect pair of ankle strap heels. I'm definitely a fan of a sexy, high, high heel (often platform), but these are just as sexy without totally destroying your foot with crazy height. My favorite in this group is definitely Nicholas' "Hari" pump. I absolutely love the texture, the shape of the heel, the color combination and the overall weight of the shoe. It's delicate without being too strappy and can be paired with anything from cocktail attire to jeans and a cute black tee.   

2. {Photo/Buy: Shopbop}

This style is so versatile, which is a huge selling point for me (and you, depending on what you have to work with in terms of "dress code" at work). I really try (keyword try...clearly YSL booties are not gonna fly at an accounting firm) to buy both clothing and shoes that will work on the weekend as well as in the office. Living in L.A. makes that a little easier for professionals, as guidelines for attire are on average less conservative than other cities. However, I think there is certainly at least one ankle strap heel that will work in your office (and after hours). Case in point, option #2: Jeffrey Campbell's "Soltair" pumps. They're a comfortable height and they're neutral but have that bit of texture to keep it interesting!


So, those first two options are my favorites, but I found so many I loved that I couldn't leave them out! The best part is that two of the three are under $150! I really love the Pour La Victoire wedges (center), so get them before I buy them first...

{Photo/Buy: Revolve}

{Photo/Buy: Piperlime}

{Photo/Buy: Revolve}

THE WORKING BITCH STRIKES AGAIN: In Color.

I know, you think I lost my shit. I went from black/white/gray to freaking neon brights in a matter of days. It's okay, I'm feeling fine and I'm wearing a neutral-toned outfit as I sit writing this. I also shouldn't be given too much credit for originality when it comes to this outfit because I definitely stole it from a Facebook post by L*Space last week, in which they highlight the berry/paprika combo for summer swim. Buuut they include clothing ensembles as their inspiration, which is what caught my eye. 

At a few points in my life, I have expressed my absolute, unwavering distaste for red/pink, pink/purple and purple red combinations. Somehow, this is different. It's like the chic version of purple with a brighter version of red and I really love the way they play together. I also didn't expect black to work in this instance, but it totally does--especially accented with gold. I wore this on a Wednesday, and I think it helped me break up the week a little; add a little spice in the midst of monotony. You might say that I've taken Brad Goreski's "pop of color" theory a bit too far. Reversed even. This might qualify as a "pop of black" situation. Either way, I'm obsessed.

Before you think to yourself that this is way too much for you to pull of in your serious office environment, think again. Keep in mind that I'm an accountant--a first year accountant even--at a huge firm. Granted, it's in LA, so we're a little less serious, but still. I got compliments all day (and a few confused looks from the older partners-not bad though, confused). The only profession I would label this "inappropriate" for is law. So sorry lawyer friends. But at least you have the weekends (unlike me right now).

Toodles. 
 

Viva Vena retro shirt / Juicy Couture slim pants, $155 / Michael Kors gold bangle jewelry / Fendi , $335

RETURN OF THE WORKING BITCH

LADIES, ladies. I introduce to you maybe my favorite work look ever. Now, I know it probably doesn't scream at you or jump off the page at first glance. But that's okay. I like to think of myself as a subtly fashionable person and this ensemble is definitely in line with my philosophy. 

Despite previous posts about incorporating color into a modern girl's work wardrobe, neutrals are my jam. My favorite color? Black. My second favorite color? Gray. After that, nude/blush and white (I'm pale, so I try not to do tooooo much white). I won't continue any further, as I'm sure you get the picture here. 

This Equipment top (available at Nordstrom- my favorite place- and Piperlime) is insane. On top of being both neutral (the body of the shirt is a very light blush color), it has a trendy touch of python print and it's incredibly soft, light and comfortable. If you're anything like me and you sit in an office all day, you want this look for two reasons: comfort and hotness. Like, hello, if you can look super cute AND be comfortable, why would you wear anything else? 

In addition, I HIGHLY recommend learning how to rock the power bun. When you just don't feel like washing and drying that crazy mane of yours (or you just feel extra bitch-tastic), this is the solution you've been looking for. Yes, I know the sock bun thing has been around for a while, but you need to start taking it seriously. I haven't seen anyone look heinous in a power bun yet (unless they let it fall out all over the place), it's easy and it makes you look sexy without exposing any cleavage. Add some studded shoes-smoking loafers are also a great comfort choice- and you're borderline guaranteed to be "the cute girl" in the office. 

Work/Python by themackenz featuring equipment tops

OBSESSION OF THE WEEK: Collar Necklaces

I talked about color in work wardrobes last week and mentioned jewelry as a great way to incorporate that something special into your outfit. More specifically, collar necklaces are a great way to complete both casual and work ensembles--especially for summer!


When I first fell in love with a collar necklace (via pinterest, of course), it was this gold HRH Collection necklace, I didn't think I'd ever be able to pull it off. In a moment of weakness, I ordered it as a fashion experiment. Luckily for me, I was able to justify my purchase, as it is totally stunning. The double chain is eye-catching and dresses any outfit up. I've worn it to work with a nice blouse and to go out at night, and versatility is always a plus! Each chain has a unique finish, which makes the piece even more unique. Between this and my Rebecca Minkoff bags, I'm able to look like I might know what I'm doing when I get dressed. I surprise myself (and the rest of the world) daily.

Another great website for collar (also called "cuff" or "bib" necklaces) is called BaubleBar. When you sign up for the website (you don't have to if you just want to look), they give you a $10 credit toward your first purchase and have a rewards program for future purchases. Everything is reasonably priced, and they are always featuring the newest designs. They have a great selection, and these two (the spearmint and coral ones) are some of my favorites!I have yet to buy either of them, but by the time I'm finished with this post, I'll probably have persuaded myself to take the plunge...


For all of you big spenders out there, I've found another option for you. I only wish I could own this CC Skye neon chain necklace, but it's a little pricey for the budget I attempt to keep. Stars like Demi Lovato have been spotted wearing this little wonder, and there's no question of why. It's bright, trendy and stands out incredibly against black (my favorite color, if you weren't aware).

Happy shopping, bitches.

xoxo

THE WORKING BITCH & Bright Colors

In yet another effort to avoid dressing like the dull, drab color scheme often associated with offices (i.e. black, white and a multitude of grays), I have drastically broadened my color horizons for work apparel. Typically, I am a serious proponent of black--it's slimming, matches with everything, helps highlight accessories and looks good whether you have a sun-kissed tan or wore SPF 100 your entire Cabo trip. While there are lots of cute neutral options for regular and night life, this isn't exactly the case for work life (at least for those of us subject to business professional and casual). Yes, everyone needs neutral, classic pieces for a work wardrobe.  You should definitely have a black or gray (or both) suit, but let's try not to look like every other office clone out there in a plain suit. For day to day wear, I recommend incorporating pops of color. This doesn't mean dress like a rainbow....and you obviously have to read your work environment. If you work at an extremely professional and conservative corporate law firm, you may have to use subtle hints of color (so maybe the orange pants are a no).

If you can do it, a colored pant (like these by Vince Camuto) can be so cute and eye catching. There are lots of great colors in tops, of course. This silk button down by Trouve comes in coral too! Maybe you're just trying to catch the attention of the cute guy four cubicles down as you take the scenic route to the restroom four times a day, but being noticed is important beyond this purpose. Appropriate pieces in rich colors (not necessarily bright) can set you apart from the sea of black, white, gray and basic blue that surrounds you. It never hurts to have a conversation (compliment) piece. Sometimes all you need is the right introduction, and poof! You've made the right connection. Another plus? It's easier to transition your outfit for happy hour at the bar....


One more way to incorporate this trend is with jewelry. There are so many eye-catching, unique ways to wear jewelry in the workplace. Plus, it's perfect for a more color-subtle style. Jewelry is appropriate for every season and you can find great deals and prices for different types of fashion pieces (H&M often has great options!). I'll also be zeroing in on my favorite type of statement jewelry of the moment in my next post....

xoxo

OoTW + Animal Print

Gold/Leopard by themackenz featuring crossbody handbags

Zara cotton blouse
$50 - zara.com

Oroton ballet flat
120 AUD - oroton.com

Rebecca Minkoff crossbody handbag
$330 - nordstrom.com

Michael Kors water resistant watch
$180 - couture.zappos.com

Tory Burch gold stud earrings
$68 - nordstrom.com

THE WORKING BITCH & Animal Print

I've recently decided two things about the real world. First, I need a work wardrobe. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with 85% of my current closet contents a few months from now, when I won't be able to wear jeans and cotton tees to work on a daily basis. Only two days a week available for casualwear? How am I supposed to get any use out of my clothing? On one hand, this is tragedy for all of my super cute sheer tops, rompers and maxi dresses. On the other, it's an opportunity to SHOP.

This brings me to my second realization. Upon revelation #1, I was neither happy nor enthused about this type of shopping. I don't want to regress to my high school closet, which was 90% JCrew. However, thanks primarily to Pinterest, there is hope. I decided that I refuse to dress like a stuffy librarian just because I'm going into an accounting firm every day (yes, accounting). Luckily, there are options for those of us attempting to avoid boringness. Thank God.

Option one? Animal print. Please, one piece at a time people. Let's not get carried away trying to look like those bitches in magazines who wear a bunch of stuff that doesn't match and end up matching. It's not going to work for you.



 
Snakeprint and Leopard print blouses, Zara
Shoes, Delman at Nordstrom
Dress, Charlie Jade

Congratulations, Nordstrom Bank. You are the direct beneficiary of my logic.