An Accessory Guide For the Work Place

When it comes to dressing for the office, how well you accessorize could be what matters most. Keeping up with the fashion trends of the office is hard work, but sometimes all that’s needed to make things easier are a few staple accessories to carry you through the week. Find out how to master the 10 accessories that a woman should always have on hand.

 1. A Practical Bag. When deciding upon an appropriate tote for the office, size matters, especially for those who don’t go the typical briefcase route. It’s very possible to rock a tote at work, as long as it’s practical. It can’t be a jumbo bag that would fit everything plus a hairdryer, but it’s got to be able to fit the basics: tablet, notepad, etc. If all that can be crammed in is lip gloss and a pair of tweezers, it’s not going to work out. An extra bag will need to be lugged around at the end of the day to bring everything home, and there’s nothing sleek or chic about that.

2. A Classic Watch. It’s easy to think that watches are becoming extinct because of the birth of cellphones, but that could not be more false. There are plenty of occasions where relying on a cellphone is not okay, especially at work. When you’re expected to be professional, stow the cellphone. Just having a phone out can be distracting, and if it’s blowing up with tweets and texts, everyone will notice. Besides, when asked for the time, it’s much simpler to glance down at a wrist than to go digging for a phone. The key is finding the right watch, one that is versatile enough to complement any outfit but will be fancy enough for more formal days.

3. Undergarments That Fit.  There’s really no excuse for undergarments to be visible at the office. They are undoubtedly the most important of accessories, and they need to fit and work properly. They should not be scandalous, brightly-colored or too tight. The key to undergarment shopping is making sure to find the perfect fit. This is especially true for bras. Bras absolutely have to fit right in order to make the rest of the outfit work. If they’re bunching, gaping or doing anything but being subtle, it’s time to retire them.

4. Stud Earrings. Dangling and hoop earrings are fun and all, but they’re not necessarily the best choice for the office. Stud earrings are the way to go because they’re the most reliable. When hustling between meetings and coffee breaks, there is no time to check if the earrings are still in place or to be bothered by them tangling with hair. Studs add a level of sophistication that beats going with naked ears any day.

5. Functional Flats. Some days, those furry slippers by the nightstand seem like a tempting choice, but of course that’s not practical. Opting for flats, however, is perfectly acceptable and will leave toes feeling much better at the end of the day. With jobs that require a lot of walking around and movement, flats are the only way to go. A pair in a neutral color will be the ultimate lifesaver, and there are plenty of ways to make them look fashionable.

6. Subtle Nail Polish. Bare nails seem to look undone, so that’s why painting them is a great choice. However, it’s important not to choose anything too flashy. Leave the glitter, neons and long tips at home. A light pink or beige is always professional and preferred.

7. Basic Tights. Generally it’s considered more professional to have legs covered up at the office, especially during the colder months. Regardless of what you may have heard, a good pair of tights will come in handy. Layered with skirts, dresses, boots and more, tights complete any ensemble. When in a conference, the last thing a woman wants worry about is having to cross her legs properly to avoid a wardrobe malfunction. Wearing stockings or tights is always the safest option.

8. A Versatile Blazer. Even on the warmest of days, the office’s air conditioning could be at an all-time high. No one wants to be distracted or to let their work suffer just because of how cold it is. Having a spare blazer that goes with everything comes is beyond useful at times like these. Other times, an outfit looks great when leaving the house, but after arriving at work, feels a little revealing. No worries: Favorite blazer to the rescue. It’s worth investing time and money to find the perfect fit.

9. A Reliable Pump. Sometimes it’s nice to see eye to eye with the men at the office, so thank you, pumps. When choosing to wear heels to work, height and comfort need to be considered. They should not be too tall, and being able to walk in them properly is a must. If they need to be kicked off under the desk every two minutes, chances are they should be shelved. Have a little faith; there are ways to successfully wear heels to work.

10. The Perfect Lipstick. Lipstick is totally acceptable office wear, but just like nail polish, it shouldn’t be anything too extravagant. It can be a great accessory that adds a little extra pop while still being subtle and professional. The key with this one is avoiding smudges on the teeth, because a smile is the best accessory any woman can wear and it shouldn’t be tampered with.