I get so excited when I find a brand that creates flattering, feminine business casual dresses. It can be tough for me to find affordable pieces suitable for a professional setting that are true to my style. Traditional workwear can be incredibly bland and also expensive! While there’s no shortage of bright, floral print dresses, it can be harder to find styles like this Ivanka Trump floral dress that don’t reveal cleavage (not that I have any…) or are knee-length.
I remember during my sophomore year of college feeling panic over what I was going to wear when I got the offer for my very first PR internship. My professional wardrobe didn’t really extend beyond the single Brooks Brothers pencil skirt and blouse I’d worn for my college interviews. I knew I’d need more than one outfit for my full time summer internship at a large corporate PR agency in New York City…
Big thanks to Kendall for snapping these photos!
I was wearing…
Ivanka Trump floral dress c/o (on sale for $82!) | similar black pumps | black satchel | gold watch | aviators | David Yurman bracelets
My Spring Workwear Favorites!
Luckily, grandma came to my rescue and took me on a much-needed shopping trip to build out my corporate wardrobe at Neiman Marcus. I was so nervous about making a good impression that I shunned away anything that was bright or had an eye-catching print when we were looking through the racks. The last thing I wanted to do was walk in wearing something that would make me stand out like a sore thumb. In my mind, all New Yorkers only wore dark solid colors and to fit in I would have to adopt that style.
While I left the store that day with some beautiful pantsuits, blazers and dresses that are still in my closet, if I had to go back I would’ve been more open to vibrant colors and floral patterns. I had an amazing experience at my internship and of course I worried for nothing, but I think I would’ve felt a little more comfortable if I’d stayed true to my taste.
So key learning experience: you don’t have to completely change your style for the workplace. If anything you can make small modifications like opting for a midi dress over a mini style, or choosing a blazer in a fun color instead of one in grey or black.
Starting an internship or applying for a full time job? Make sure you check these posts out!
6 Tips for Landing Your Dream Internship
5 Tips to Stand Out When Applying for An Entry-Level Job
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Natali says
Looking absolutely gorgeous in this unique and ladylike dress!!
http://lartoffashion.com
Katie says
Thank you! xo
Ellen says
Love those shoes! The Jessica Simpson ones you linked are great too 🙂
Katie says
Thank you! Mine are super old but the Jessica Simpson are basically identical!
Ann-Louise says
That dress is so pretty! I love the feminine and ladylike vibes!
http://sequinsinpink.blogspot.com
Katie says
I love it too. Thank you!
Liv says
Such a stunning and sophisticated look.
Liv
http://www.livforstyle.net
Katie says
Thanks!!
Lauren says
Oooooh, I want the pink blazer!
Katie says
Me too 🙂
Monika says
Such a pretty dress!
Love,
http://thestyleventure.com/2016/05/06/how-to-contact-pr-agencies/
Katie says
Thank you!!
Kathryn says
Oh I love this dress! Adds just a little something extra to the “basic” workwear. Love it!!
xx Kathryn
http://www.chicandshimmer.com
Katie says
Couldn’t agree more! xo
Gloria says
I thought I recognized that dress! It’s looks great on you. Clothing today for the office workers is
totally different and boost many exciting colors and prints. No more dull gray or black suits with
white blouses.
Katie says
Thank you so much 🙂