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Dress Code Personal Style

Have a passion for fashion but a dress code to adhere to? Vent your frustration, give tips, ideas, and advice, and get sartorial inspiration from the stylishly office-bound.

Network Leader: Leigh Krampe

Networks > Dress Code Personal Style

Lisa Lahey I have a job swappee on Monday March 22 - Dr. Robert E McGinnis....he writes YA novels. He has a profile on linked in. i have no idea what he wants me to do ha wish me luck

16 hours ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Lisa Lahey National Job Swap Day is on Monday March 22 2010. It can be a virtual or actual swap. Find a partner/s and get swapping. To that end make sure if you swap in person you are dressed appropriately ...MoreNational Job Swap Day is on Monday March 22 2010. It can be a virtual or actual swap. Find a partner/s and get swapping. To that end make sure if you swap in person you are dressed appropriately for the job....ask your friend/social media acquaintance what to wear...you don't want to embarrass yourself dressing inappropriately...of course if your friend is a stripper you don't have to wear too much..its only coming off soon anyway haha
good luck

1 day ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Sabera (Kapasi) Photographer I'm visiting Florida next month and am looking for a semi-formal, yet summer-y cotton dress to wear when the hubby and I go out for dinner at the trip. I've been looking up stores but haven't ...MoreI'm visiting Florida next month and am looking for a semi-formal, yet summer-y cotton dress to wear when the hubby and I go out for dinner at the trip. I've been looking up stores but haven't really found anything suitable for my budget (around $25 - $30). Ann Taylor is too formal, Target is either too formal (merona) or too girly (other in-store brands), Old Navy dresses are in jersey which to me is, yucky. Where else? Any suggestions?

1 week ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Ann Ellingham Crutchfield: I lived on Siesta Key for 3 years....@ 10 years ago was voted the most beautiful beach in the WORLD. shorts, skirts and trendy tops (and a ...MoreI lived on Siesta Key for 3 years....@ 10 years ago was voted the most beautiful beach in the WORLD. shorts, skirts and trendy tops (and a bathing suit) are all you need! Just throw a wrap or sweater in the suitcase...when you go into restaurants you'll need it! Lots of great little (very high-end) shops on St. Armends' Key (next to Siesta Key). Have fun!
4 days ago

Sabera (Kapasi) Photographer: Thanks for the tips Ann! Really looking forward to the trip...
3 days ago

Alison Rayner There's nothing that frustrates me more than out of date dress codes. It seems like a feeble attempt to hold on to the past. For example, when I worked in sales at a hotel, peep toe shoes were ...MoreThere's nothing that frustrates me more than out of date dress codes. It seems like a feeble attempt to hold on to the past. For example, when I worked in sales at a hotel, peep toe shoes were held in the same regard as showing up in your pjyamas! I believe that if you're working hard & well and are good at your job, why do organizations need archaic dress codes to try to keep their people in line? Especially in a fashion-forward office.

1 week ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Jeremy Tadman: My organisation has gone as far as to announce the only concession made on our official "casual" days is that you're allowed to wear jeans. Why ...MoreMy organisation has gone as far as to announce the only concession made on our official "casual" days is that you're allowed to wear jeans. Why bother? And why move backwards? "Business" attire just generally looks terribly out of place on a large number of the people who are forced to wear it, and it just isn't comfortable.

I can understand places like restaurants and hotels who are entirely customer facing having a uniform for branding purposes (it also makes it easier to identify staff when you need them). I also understand clothing outlets which encourage employees to wear their particular brand of clothing (if you wouldn't wear it, why sell it?). But for "back office" work there's really no excuse for such things. And in the places where there is an excuse, at least make sure there's something to suit everyone (and not "one size fits all" aka "one size fits nobody".
1 week ago

Jeremy Tadman: Eeep! Brazen ate my paragraphs!
1 week ago

Rebecca Thorman Another interesting article on the complexities of dressing as a woman. Not sure what I think - MoreAnother interesting article on the complexities of dressing as a woman. Not sure what I think - http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/34861316/ns/today-today_books/

8 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Stanley Lee: @Morana: Sorry for the typo in my last response with your name. While it is not rude to ask someone who is revealing to cover up more (preferably ...More@Morana: Sorry for the typo in my last response with your name. While it is not rude to ask someone who is revealing to cover up more (preferably in private through a senior female coworker), I do agree about how unreasonable for men to expect women to look like they have no breasts at all from your example. Perhaps finding strategies on dealing with that would be enlightening and good reference for the future? Strategies for dealing with that don't just fall out from the sky. ;)
4 weeks ago

Sara Gonzalez: Good article and I think it addressed some valid points that you have to take ownership of how others see you. It may not be fair but it's ...MoreGood article and I think it addressed some valid points that you have to take ownership of how others see you. It may not be fair but it's reality. Thank you for posting this Rebecca!
2 weeks ago

Christie Best stylish outfit I was able to pull was skinny work pants with navy sailor blazer and long sleeved shirt with flat black suede boots. It felt fantastic!

2 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Vanessa Alvarado For those with a personal vendetta to be incredibly frugal during the required clothing-replacement process, here are my ideas:

1. Ask friends/family for clothes they no longer ...MoreFor those with a personal vendetta to be incredibly frugal during the required clothing-replacement process, here are my ideas:

1. Ask friends/family for clothes they no longer desire
2. Start with simple patterns and sew some work clothes
3. Browse thrift stores for quality pieces
4. Repair clothes already owned
5. Skim Sales for quality pieces at reduced prices

Retail is boring me. Being frugal is fun, fulfilling, and less expensive!

5 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Ann Ellingham Crutchfield: Search for the best thrift stores. If you can find the thrift store that supports the "IN" not-for-profit, you'll have the fun of ...MoreSearch for the best thrift stores. If you can find the thrift store that supports the "IN" not-for-profit, you'll have the fun of treasure-hunter for designer bargains. Today I wore to work a Saks 5th Avenue label casmhere sweater ($0.50 for a Salvation Army), a St John's Knit skirt (I think that was under $5) and a J Crew blazer ($1). I must say, I looked great!
5 weeks ago

Meghan Skiff: Expanding on #1, I've enjoyed raiding my Mom's costume jewelery the past few years (she doesn't mind). She has some awesome pieces from the 70s ...MoreExpanding on #1, I've enjoyed raiding my Mom's costume jewelery the past few years (she doesn't mind). She has some awesome pieces from the 70s that she would never wear today. I, on the other hand, love the extra pop they give a basic outfit.
4 weeks ago

Leigh Krampe It's Thursday, snowy, and half the office (boss included) is out at management meeting--I'm so wearing jeans and cowboy boots.

7 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Andrew Shell: On a cowboy?
7 weeks ago

Heather Gaona: for cowboy boots: Steve Madden, unless you really want to drop some cash, in which case, Frye
4 weeks ago

Emily Moore I just moved to the Washington, D.C., area and am looking to be stylish on a budget. Can't wait to hear what advice you guys might have.

5 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Emily Moore: Thanks for the recommendations! I know that this is going to take some transforming of how I think about shopping, but it's definitely worth it.
5 weeks ago

Rebecca Thorman: You'll hear this a lot, but definitely spend some money and time finding great basics. I have some really cute black dresses I've been able to ...MoreYou'll hear this a lot, but definitely spend some money and time finding great basics. I have some really cute black dresses I've been able to dress up, dress down and wear for years with accessories and different shirts and jackets. Also, I've mentioned this before, but I wouldn't skimp on shoes either - a good pair will last several years! I'd grab some nice boots and a couple pairs of heels to start. You can supplement your basic pieces with cheaper trends each season. Hope that helps!
5 weeks ago

Stanley Lee Are there any American Apparel advocates in this network? It would be great if I can get in touch with you as I needed some opinions for a marketing project. Thanks!

5 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Jung Fitzpatrick So glad to see some men commenting here! What are dress code issues that guys face in the workplace?

6 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

James DeRosia: The dress code issue that I saw with 90% of men in the workplace is that they don't know what the hell they're doing. It may be an issue of ...MoreThe dress code issue that I saw with 90% of men in the workplace is that they don't know what the hell they're doing. It may be an issue of working with engineers for so long (I was one) but the ill fitting clothes and the Dockers label are not doing anyone any favors. It's easy to dress appropriately, as a man, but apparently it's hard to dress with style. Here's the thing, guys, figure out how to buy clothes that fit you properly and you're 90% there to looking good.
6 weeks ago

Jung Fitzpatrick: Well said James! Fitted clothes makes everyone look 100% better. I think someone posted about this earlier, but finding a great and affordable ...MoreWell said James! Fitted clothes makes everyone look 100% better. I think someone posted about this earlier, but finding a great and affordable tailor is a good investment.
6 weeks ago

Jung Fitzpatrick Umm...best dress ever? http://www.butterbynadia.com/wrap.html I'll be wearing ...MoreUmm...best dress ever? http://www.butterbynadia.com/wrap.html I'll be wearing the Signature Satin wrap in aubergine for my friend's wedding. She's super fashion savvy and picked this for her bridesmaids!

6 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

James DeRosia If you're gonna go Frye, at least in mens boots, the models that are made in the U.S.A. have noticeably better quality than the ones that are hecho en Mexico. Of course the price is a little steeper.

6 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Jessica Schanberg Frye is the only boot worth mentioning. I love mine and so did General Patton...

6 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Meghan Skiff Hi everyone!

I'm the maid of honor in a wedding that will take place at the end of March. The bride is so fabulous that she is not requiring us to wear traditional bridesmaid ...MoreHi everyone!

I'm the maid of honor in a wedding that will take place at the end of March. The bride is so fabulous that she is not requiring us to wear traditional bridesmaid dresses. We can wear any black cocktail dress we like. I'm torn between a few options and would appreciate your opinion! Option 1: http://bit.ly/6eEVbU Option 2: http://bit.ly/6Wm6Sx Option 3: http://bit.ly/4TZ7vT

9 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Sabera (Kapasi) Photographer: Option 1. Definitely.
7 weeks ago

Meghan Skiff: Thanks everyone! I do believe I'm going with option # 1, I'll be sure to take pictures and share them with you!
6 weeks ago

Aida at Citi It's pouring rain outside my office! I wish I was wearing my favorite jeans and my Burberry rain boots. Instead I will no doubt slip and fall in my 3.5 inch heels and fall on my newly dry cleaned ...MoreIt's pouring rain outside my office! I wish I was wearing my favorite jeans and my Burberry rain boots. Instead I will no doubt slip and fall in my 3.5 inch heels and fall on my newly dry cleaned suit. To those of you in Orange County- stay dry out there.

7 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Rebecca Thorman: Oh man, I don't envy you! Does anyone really care around extra pairs of shoes for such occasions? I had one friend who basically traveled around ...MoreOh man, I don't envy you! Does anyone really care around extra pairs of shoes for such occasions? I had one friend who basically traveled around with half her closet in her trunk, but I'm more of a minimalist... ha.
7 weeks ago

Cybyl George I like option #3. It's simple, but has some character with the assymetrical pleating.

8 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Rebecca Thorman Guys, I need your help! I'm flying to Philly tomorrow for an evening wedding, and I have a ton of dresses, but am thinking they are boring. Which do you like best?
1 - MoreGuys, I need your help! I'm flying to Philly tomorrow for an evening wedding, and I have a ton of dresses, but am thinking they are boring. Which do you like best?
1 - http://bit.ly/7BIcAH - wore this to a summer wedding.
2 - http://bit.ly/6aBo73 - wore this to the Governor's Residence a couple years ago.
3 - http://bit.ly/6stAm7 - I've worn this a lot for birthdays and parties.
4 - http://bit.ly/4PWpca - the holiday party dress I already shared.
Help! I really don't want to buy a new one.

10 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Rebecca Thorman: Hi all - Thanks for the vote of confidence on #1! I did wear that one... most of the girls at the wedding were in black, including the ...MoreHi all - Thanks for the vote of confidence on #1! I did wear that one... most of the girls at the wedding were in black, including the bridesmaids! (is that an East Coast thing?) so I was a little uncomfortable at first, but ended up having a fabulous time and got lots of compliments. Philly rocked too; wasn't sure what to expect when we came in from the airport, but the city totally grew on me in our short time there :)
9 weeks ago

Meghan Skiff: I think that is an East Coast thing...all black is even the case in Pittsburgh, even though we aren't really "coast". In fact, it is funny you ...MoreI think that is an East Coast thing...all black is even the case in Pittsburgh, even though we aren't really "coast". In fact, it is funny you should bring this up, because I was just about to post something in this group along the same lines! See above.
9 weeks ago

Paula Patinella I prefer to have people listening to what I am saying rather than looking at what I'm wearing. I keep things simple, choosing solids over prints & being bold with rich colors. You can mix ...MoreI prefer to have people listening to what I am saying rather than looking at what I'm wearing. I keep things simple, choosing solids over prints & being bold with rich colors. You can mix and match 2 skirts, 2 shell tops, 2 cardigans & make several outfits. Invest in some beautiful scarfs & learn how to wear them in original ways; European women do this. For traveling, it's a lot lighter to carry six scarfs than six outfits. For fun, I make jewelry which reflects my creativity & personality.

10 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Tania Deb: Hi Paula, I like your idea of carrying scarves for travel. It sure is a lot lighter than the sweaters I carry most of the time. But I have to ...MoreHi Paula, I like your idea of carrying scarves for travel. It sure is a lot lighter than the sweaters I carry most of the time. But I have to disagree about people not listening just because someone is not dressed in basics. Most prints and patterns are not distracting, same for most jewelery. Seeing and listening both contribute to how we understand what others are saying. So, I see nothing wrong in wearing creative and colorful outfits while presenting my ideas to others.
10 weeks ago

Vanessa Alvarado: Good idea with the scarves. I'm hunting down interesting old sweaters/materials to transform into a multitude of scarves- for warmth and fun. What ...MoreGood idea with the scarves. I'm hunting down interesting old sweaters/materials to transform into a multitude of scarves- for warmth and fun. What kind of jewelry do you make?
9 weeks ago

Meghan Skiff Hi Guys, have any of you tried this yet? I think it looks pretty cool and might try it out.

MoreHi Guys, have any of you tried this yet? I think it looks pretty cool and might try it out.

http://www.shoedazzle.com/

10 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Melissa Malott: That does look cool, and could probably transform my wardrobe pretty quickly.
10 weeks ago

Melissa Malott: Although, I'm a little worried about getting shoes that might not be compatible with Wisconsin's winters!
10 weeks ago

Nadia I really like 1 and 3 but think 1 is better suited for a evening wedding too.

10 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

Rebecca Thorman Great article by one of my fav bloggers Laurie Ruettimann - Your Wardrobe as a Feminist Issue - http://bit.ly/7OtN2E

10 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Morana Medved: I disagree that women necessarily have it harder than men when it comes to wardrobe, but they do have more options and thus more ways to get it ...MoreI disagree that women necessarily have it harder than men when it comes to wardrobe, but they do have more options and thus more ways to get it wrong. I disagree even more that dressing feminine will make people take you less seriously. Dressing sexy will do that. And dressing masculine in my experience is more likely to turn people, especially men, off. I work in a male-dominated field and dressing feminine, professional and creative has so far been to my benefit.
10 weeks ago

Meghan Skiff: Agreed, dressing sexy is a guaranteed way to not be taken seriously at work. I have, however witnessed situations where the girly girl was ...MoreAgreed, dressing sexy is a guaranteed way to not be taken seriously at work. I have, however witnessed situations where the girly girl was dismissed..think Elle Woods. I think it has more to do with the mindset of the feild that you are in as opposed to how many men are in it. There are plenty of progressive men out there! At any rate, glad you haven't encountered this, Morana, because after all that is how it should be!
10 weeks ago

Sharon Wiatt Jones I have black, a reddish burgundy, blue, and lavender (that one is for bifocals.) I don't always think to accessorize with jewelry, so glasses help me feel put together. It adds up though.

11 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Jung Fitzpatrick: Yes, the glasses as accessory can add up...I'm having my frugal fashionista friend come check out the frames with me...I'm intrigued by the ...MoreYes, the glasses as accessory can add up...I'm having my frugal fashionista friend come check out the frames with me...I'm intrigued by the frameless glasses and may consider that more seriously. Will let you know!
10 weeks ago

Morana Medved: Sharon, if you look closely you can see a band across my nose. I've had these for over three years now and still get compliments all the time. I ...MoreSharon, if you look closely you can see a band across my nose. I've had these for over three years now and still get compliments all the time. I also have "ultralight" lenses that are thinner than standard. It is an investment, but it's definitely more long-term than anything else I had. Just don't get photosensitive lenses - you usually end up with permanent tint after a while.
10 weeks ago

TeeTeeEchols Seasons Greetings and Happy New Year. It's been a pleasure chatting about style in the work place. My hope is that we continue to ask, respond, recommend, debate, or refute fashion advice in 2010. ...MoreSeasons Greetings and Happy New Year. It's been a pleasure chatting about style in the work place. My hope is that we continue to ask, respond, recommend, debate, or refute fashion advice in 2010. Active participation is vital when using social media as a networking resource. Lastly, I would like to encourage men to post fashion tips or faux pas, as your perspective will increase the group’s knowledge of how men communicate through fashion in the work place. And you?

12 weeks ago from Dress Code Personal Style

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Vanessa Alvarado: Glad I'm not the only one trying to take out the middle man. Manufactured clothing bores the hell out of me. What sewing machine did you parents ...MoreGlad I'm not the only one trying to take out the middle man. Manufactured clothing bores the hell out of me. What sewing machine did you parents get you? Is it user-friendly for a beginner?
10 weeks ago

Meghan Skiff: Sorry for the delay, I wanted to check the model # to be sure. Thsi is the machine that I got: MoreSorry for the delay, I wanted to check the model # to be sure. Thsi is the machine that I got: http://bit.ly/5lBdNs I'm not sure if this one is the same as what I got in terms of the accessories included. Mine came with all sorts of accessories, including an introductory DVD. It seems pretty userfriendly but I haven't done much yet with it. There is a sewing studio right in my neightborhood here in Pgh, so I'll be taking classes later this month!
10 weeks ago