Last week we looked at getting a great fitting suit on a budget, and today we are going to talk about bringing your style and personality to your suit. Recently, one of my favorite nurses took a Nursing Director position, Miss M was always the bright spot of your day when you went to her floor because she rocked the neon scrub and it worked for her. I was so sad to see her in a boring black suit with a white dress shirt at a meeting. You do not have to sacrifice your personality to wear a suit.
Colorful Tops. Tops are an easy way to inject color and interest while on a budget. They are usually less expensive than your suit bottoms and jackets, and are much easier to shop on sale. I have dress shirts in shades of pink, blue, green, and purple. I have numerous patterned tops. Let your personality shine.
Recycling Tip: If I buy a pattern, I look for a shirt that can also be dressed down for the weekend. I also look for a color or pattern that I can wear with multiple suits to create different looks. I am loving the Pleione Faux Wrap Blouse (see my Pinterest page) right now for this purpose. Next week, I am going to talk more about recycling pieces to make a great suit.
Buy what suits YOU. If your style is more laid back and less structured, then find suits that are the same. J Jill has a great line of more relaxed suits. If you are more feminine, look for feminine details like a top with some lace or look for a great print shift dress that would pair with a solid jacket. If you are less girly, embrace the menswear look.
Warning: As you embrace your personality and style, still remember you are dressing for 9 to 5 hours. This is not the place for the jacket from your bridesmaids dress. Glitter and Rhinestones are not 9 to 5 items.
Shoes and Bags. Shoes are my absolute favorite way to brighten a suit. Remember the warning above … those red satin shoes are not 9 to 5. However, red patent leather are. I have a black and white work bag and a red one. I use them to inject style into my look.
Jewelry. I believe in picking one piece to make a statement, and I prefer that to be my necklace, scarf or a broach. I think earrings should be understated. However, your necklace or scarf is an inexpensive and great way to bring in color and style to any outfit.
Money Saving Tips: I scour the White House Black Market end of season sale for inexpensive statement necklaces. I also shop Nordstrom Rack for great tops, scarves, and bags. Lastly, 6pm.com is my current obsession for great shoes. I recently purchased a pair of Cole Haan heels for 75% off.
Don’t forget my Pinterest site for fashion ideas. As always, please send your questions, comments, concerns, or issues to southernservicestyle@gmail.com