Split crepe top – $69 – anntaylor.com

Happy Friday! TGIF!
So the weather is getting warmer, at least for some of us, if you discount the recent torrential rains and temperamental temperatures…And for corporate sisters, dressing for warm weather means an urgent need to update one’s work wardrobe. And with this, comes a slew of questions as to what is appropriate, what is borderline, and what is just NOT OK to sport to work.

In most, if not all work situations, keeping one’s wardrobe choices classic is the best, if not most economical option. For the fashionistas like myself out there, or those in less conservative professions such as fashion, PR, advertising or design, we can always add a fun spin to our work clothes by playing with funky shapes and colors. However, keeping a wardrobe foundation built on breathable, natural fabrics like cotton, silk and linen, and classic, tailored choices, such as sheath dresses (love love my easy, colorful and classic sheath dresses), blazers and cardigans (to wear over your clothes once inside), lightweight trousers, and nice, elegant tops or shells, guarantees you impeccable fashion choices at work.

On the list of NO-NO fashion choices for the office:

•  Anything with spaghetti straps: if your bra straps (even your best Victoria’s Secret’s bra) are showing, or if you have to dig out that strapless bra, you’re stepping in “poor fashion” zone;
• Anything that exposes cleavage: if you can look down and see your bra, you know it’s a no-no;
• Shorts: we actually have to add it on the list, because believe it or not, some people will just roll up in the office sporting shorts, talking about they’re heading to the beach after work. And sporting a shorts suit does not make it ok either…
• Sandals (NOT peep-toe pumps): if you have more than three toes enjoying the sun, you’re in WFDZ (Work Fashion Danger Zone);
• Wrinkled clothes – simple rule of thumb: if you look like you rolled out of bed all dressed after waging your best pillow fight, please…change before you work. And don’t use the linen fabric as an excuse…

In most office environments, you have to follow the “know your office” rule. During my time in one of the Big 4 Public Accounting firms, some of my clients, mostly insurance companies, would require auditors to only wear suits and closed-toe shoes. Back then, showing your toes was considered “offensive”. Depending on your office, dress as required and expected. No idea what is required or expected? Another simple rule of thumb: look at the higher-ups around, and mimic their dress style. Sure, some of them certainly do not have your style, but if you can follow the basics, you are pretty much in WFSZ (Work Fashion Safe Zone).

Among some of the items you can now safely sport during the summer, depending on your office, of course:

•  Cropped or ankle pants: we recommended this one earlier;
• Sleeveless tops or dresses: I’m a bit hesitant with sleeveless anything, preferring to not bare arms in the office. However, as long as your bra straps are covered, you may be safe.
• Peep-toe shoes: Yes, you may show your freshly painted toes (no more than 3 at a time per foot please). However, if your nail polish is chipped or your toes look like they need some serious assistance, please refrain!
  

  Stuart Weitzmann Suede wedges – $385 – neimanmarcus.com

What do you usually consider to be ok to wear in the office, or to be an absolute no-no at work when the weather gets warmer?

The Corporate Sister.