How to Take Your Look from the Office to the Evening
Holiday time means party time, but when you’re a working girl, all the post-work events mean that you need a look that easily goes from day to night. Transforming from an office appropriate ensemble to one that will work for a party can be tricky so we asked real women and working professionals Kiran, Lina, and Dalya to show us the way.
Kiran, before and after.Photography by Taea Thale
The Look: The Little Black Dress
The Little Black Dress, or LBD as it’s known in most fashion circles, is an absolute staple because it’s so versatile. A black dress (seen here on Kira, a 35-year-old digital marketing professional) can be your ally when it comes to a quick-change at the office before you head out to a holiday party. At work, keep it professional by pairing the dress with a cardigan and a sensible pair of black pumps. When it’s time to hit the town, ditch the office pumps for a something with a bit of sparkle, and opt for a fun overcoat to look chic in the cold. A low and loose side ponytail is an easy way to add a bit of glam to your look.
Tip: Don’t forget to add a bright lip and bit of mascara to really complete the look.
On Kiran (left): Armani Exchange Tailored Longline Blazer, $168, armaniexchange.com; GAP Colorblock Tank Fit & Flare Dress, $80, gap.com
On Kiran (right): Topshop Fluffy Wool Blend Swing Coat, $178, topshop.com; GAP Colorblock Tank Fit & Flare Dress, $80, gap.com; INC International Concept Women’s Zitah3 Pumps, $80, macys.com; Sondra Roberts Bugle Bead Accented Clutch, $88, sondraroberts.com; INC International Concepts Gold-Tone Glass Stretch Ring, $27, macys.com; Michael Kors Silver-Tone Embellished Maritime Links Bracelet, $145, michaelkors.com; Michael Kors Pave-Embellished Studded Silver-Tone Bangle, $145, michaelkors.com
Lina, before and after. Photography by Taea Thale
The Look: The Casual Denim & Blazer “Suit”
Lina, 31, is an art director who is lucky enough to have a casual work environment, where a “suit” made up of jeans and a blazer is an office staple. While at the office, pairing your jeans with a classic white shirt and loafers is the easiest option to look professional. When getting your party look ready, is as easy as switching the shirt for a sparkly top, and those loafers for the highest pair of heels you dare to wear.
Tip: Keep the look from getting sloppy with a jean in a dark wash, with a clean, slim-fit cut.
On Lina (left): Massimo Dutti Diagnol Weave Blazer, $250, massimodutti.com; Joe Fresh Classic Shirt, $20, joefresh.com; H&M Skinny Low Jeans, $39.95, hm.com
On Lina (right): Massimo Dutti Diagnol Weave Blazer, $250, massimodutti.com; Ann Taylor Sequin Striped Sweater, $90, anntaylor.com; H&M Skinny Low Jeans, $39.95, hm.com; Michael Kors Silver-Tone Embellished Maritime Links Bracelet, $145, michaelkors.com; Asos Premiere Pointed High Heels, $72, asos.com
Dalya, before and after.Photography by Taea Thale
The Look: Easy Separates
A great, but often overlooked piece is a bodysuit. It is versatile and can be a great asset when doing a quick change post-office. This low-cut version is too risky to wear to the office, but when you throw a sweater over it, it’s just another layer that keeps you warm! Dalya, 31, a public relations exec, paired hers with a classic pleated black leather skirt for her night look which adds a bit of rock n’ roll edge. Lose the black tights and swap boots for strappy heels and you’re ready for a night on the town.
Tip: Tights are a great, fun way to play with your look. Opaque black tights are great for the office, and a fishnet, polka-dot, or even sheer style can add a little bit of oomph at night.
On Dalya (left): Everlane The Cashmere Crew, $128, everlane.com; Zara Faux Leather Pleated Midi Skirt, $49.99, zara.com; H&M Opaque Tights, $9.95, hm.com; Armani Exchange Saffiano Leather Envelope Crossbody, $79, armaniexchange.com
On Dalya (right): Nasty Gal Knot Over You Knit Bodysuit, $52, nastygal.com; Zara Faux Leather Pleated Midi Skirt, $49.99, zara.com; Michael Kors Gold-Tone Choker, $145, michaelkors.com; INC International Concepts Gold-Tone Crystal Strone Stretch Bracelet, $35, macys.com; Aldo Vallata Ankle Strap Sandals, $80, aldoshoes.com; Sondra Roberts Champagne Satin Box, $80, zokydoky.com
Photography by Taea Thale; Styling by Christopher Kim; Hair Styling by Siobhan Benson; Makeup by Amy Chin
