Today is 'Going to Work' Day =)

I've always loved putting outfits together; from the clothes, shoes, and accessories right down to the hair and makeup - every teensy detail that would complete the look. My obsession has led to a queer habit of creating ficticious social events in my mind when I do my online 'window shopping', just for the sake of putting an outfit together to suit that 'occassion'. I attain a sense of satisfaction from viewing that 'perfect outfit' in my shopping cart, but of course I never hit the "Submit Order" button ;) The upside to this quirky habit is that I get to 'shop' without any financial constraints whatsoever....

I'm in the mood to play dress up today, and the theme is 'Corporate Chic'. Most companies have implemented the smart casual dress code nowadays, so rules on dressing for work have become more relaxed and less restrictive of the wearer's creativity. However, the drawback is that people wear jeans to work. Yes, surprising as it may sound "smart casual" is NOT a green light to wear jeans to work; unfortunately many people are ignorant of that fact =(

Edit: I did some research, and apparently denim is acceptable but it should be a dark wash, and without any rips, tears, or holes in them.

Why wear jeans when you could choose from pretty, swishy skirts, dresses, or super soft and comfy chinos???

On with the clothes!!! =D

OUTFIT 1

Dress: Breathing Closet; Stockings: DKNY; Bag: Merona at Target; Patent Mary-Jane Pumps: Xhilaration at Target; Headband: Target

I really must recommend getting this dress! At RM39.90, its what you would call a real STEAL =) Plus, the seller is my fellow fashionista, so I can assure you that whenever you see something on her site and don't know what to wear with it, just drop her an email an she'll be more than happy to assist you with helpful suggestions.

Please note that this dress is quite short, so in order to make it appropriate for the office, opaque=non-transparent stockings are a MUST. Other than that, I love everything about it from its adorable empire-waist silhouette to the retro geometric prints. Another plus is the color scheme, which is perfect for those who are attempting a more feminine look but balk at the thought of donning anything in pink.

However, do remember to add a dash of color to the outfit otherwise it'll be too dull. I matched it with a red bag, or you could also try a bright or metallic headband if you're not into red bags. I don't recommend bangles or stuff like that because: (1) they're too fancy for the office; (2) the jangling noise they make when you move is too distracting; (3) too many bangles and they'll be competing with the dress for attention and you'll end up looking over-the-top.

Lastly, black stockings + black heels = mile-long legs =)

OUTFIT 2

Top: Shopaholics Unite! ; Cashmere cardigan: J.Crew ; Skinny twill pants: Shopaholics Unite! ; Bag: Merona at Target; Shoes: Isaac Mizrahi for Target ; Necklace: ASOS

This look is very pretty and versatile - it can be worn for both work and play! The cardigan serves a dual purpose of providing modest coverage and keeping the wearer warm while in the office. Just slip it off when you need to go outdoors. Accessories with accent tones of ivory, pink, and gold help complement the pretty floral top. The skinny pants lend a trendy twist, but I like the fact that it's simple, no-fuss tailoring helps neutralize the 'sweetness' of the outfit.

Liked what I put together? Hated it and think you could do better? Feedback, suggestions, or links to your version of the outfits are more than welcome!