Work Appropriate for Who? Featuring Lauren, the Digital Communications Extraordinaire

Today’s interviews a blogger that I’ve not only been following, but I’ve also gotten to hang out with her in person! Lauren is another fellow DC blogger who has some great style. Plus, she’s done an excellent job of figuring out how to stay stylish in conservative work environments. Go check out her blog for posts from fashion to lifestyle advice to super delicious drinks!

Name
Lauren

Blog
DC Girl in Pearls

Age
24

Job Title
Digital Communications

Job Description
In my job, I create digital content, which I then promote with new media. Always searching for the next big platform!

Organization Description
Digital

What dress code was given to you when you began the job?
Business formal, Monday – Thursday. Business casual on Friday.

What do you generally wear to work?
I typically wear dresses or pencil skirts with a button down or sweater shell. It’s my unofficial uniform 🙂

Where do you like to shop for work attire?
My main shops are J.Crew (and Factory), LOFT, Ann Taylor and Brooks Brothers. But I am a bargain hunter and love searching local consignments, I’ve found some great buried treasure!

How have you developed your professional style?
I went to an all girls’ high school and our dress code allowed only skirts and dresses. So I honestly don’t feel comfortable wearing pants (jeans are a rarity for me). When I had to build my professional closet, I naturally gravitated towards skirts and dresses because that’s what I felt most comfortable in. I interned throughout college and my professional style evolved as I saw what other women in the office wore. It was a great lookbook for what to wear…and what not to wear!

In your specific office, what is one thing you would tell a woman to definitely NOT wear?
One of my professional dress pet-peeves is the rogue slit. Ladies, be mindful of the slit on the back of your dress or skirt! I see women all the time who are oblivious to the fact that they’re giving the world an eyeful. When you try on an item before purchasing, check yourself out in the mirror from all angles, including sitting down!

What is the best “dress code” advice you have ever received? Be yourself and be comfortable. 
I once had an anxiety attack over having to wear a pantsuit. It’s just not me and I always feel like a linebacker when I wear one. I worried that I wouldn’t be “taken seriously” because I love skirts and bright colors (namely pink) but then I was told to wear what feels comfortable to you (as long as it’s appropriate). Because the more comfortable and more like “you” you feel, the easier your confidence will shine through.

What advice would you give to women starting in her career about dressing for her job?
I would observe what women in your office wear or even do some people-watching during commuting hours! I get a good deal of office style inspiration just from taking a moment to look at what other women are wearing. Whether you’re in line at Starbucks or eating lunch on a park bench, take note. You’ll start to notice what combinations are 9-5 winners. And #shameless plug, I post work-friendly outfits each week over on my blog. I hope to see you there and I hope this advice was helpful! Email me if you have any questions!

View other Work Appropriate interviews here and check back on Tuesday to see who I interview next!