Make Believe Monday | Silky scarf

I love scarves. I love summer. I love scarves that can work for summer. So I'm going to ignore the pile of chunky and knit scarves sitting in my closet today and concentrate on the silky pretty stuff that I wish I were wearing instead. A light scarf. A silky scarf.*

*Silky, because silk can be expensive. Anything light with a smooth feel (perhaps a little shine or sheen, too) works for me.

A light, silky scarf is a great accessory, whether you wear it around your head or waist like Jessica, to the office like Lindsay, or around your neck like Sally. It's all season. It comes in prints, patterns, or solids. And in various shapes--long and thin, square, shorter.  I've got a few light scarves that I found vintage or got from swaps, but I could definitely use some bulking up in this area (without bulking up my closet storage, since they're so thin).

Scarves are the ultimate accessory and a great way to infuse a pop of color.  Toss it on over a dress, collared shirt, crew-neck tee, basic tank.  The possibilities are endless. Not sure where to put it? Tie one on to your purse strap.

Here are some of my silky scarf picks for under $50. Vintage and thrift stores are also a great place to find scarves in fun patterns (like my elephant).

Scarves & Wraps by Talbots

Do you like silky scarves? What is your favorite way to wear them?  Where do you find the best ones?

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Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 01.28.11

The Big Boss brought in a bagful of Ferrero Rocher chocolates the other day. My fave. I ate about six. It think it's payback for my candy bowl and the dark chocolate brownies I brought in a few weeks ago (his fave).

Happy Friday! Let's just take a second and take a deep breath. 

Ok, just one more.

Whew. 

It was one of those weeks.  Not one of those weeks, but one where I felt like I could never catch up and could never take a breath (until now that is). The difference between those weeks and these weeks is that stuff got done. Quite a bit of stuff. I've still barely breathed, but I can see the light. How many weeks until the President's Day holiday?


Now that this week is over (just about--biggest deadline was yesterday), I'm looking forward to a relaxing weekend.  On the docket is celebrating my friend Beth's birthday tomorrow (mermaids!), putting a big dent in my book club book (550+ pages to read in the next 2 weeks), and catching up on some blogging. 

I also want to start using up all my craft supplies instead of just letting them sit for years. So starting whenever I get around to it (hopefully this weekend or next), I'm ceasing any purchase of craft supplies (not to be confused with craft tools) and doing at least one project each weekend to use up the supplies I already have. I don't know at all what this weekend might hold, but I've got plenty of projects to choose from.

Just a few links for y'all--I must confess I've barely touched the style and fashion blogs on my Google Reader this week. Maybe a double-dose next week? 

• Academichic: What to wear to a conference banquet
• Apartment Therapy: Small closet updates that make a big difference
• Apartment Therapy: A peek into celebrity closets [drooooool]
• Lifehacker: Increase your chances of getting a raise by asking at the right time
• Ms. Career Girl: 7 ways to earn more respect and influence as a young professional woman
• Simply Stated: H&M online shopping is on its way [slowly but surely]
• Serious Eats: The world's easiest homemade donuts [had these on NYE--so gooooood]
• Already Pretty: Successfully deploying your tights
• Kristy Elena: The 10 commandments of building a loyal blog readership
• The Well Appointed Desk: You've got mail
• Pretty Young Professional: Work getting you down?
• I am Style-ish: How to walk in heels
• The InternView: 10 pieces every intern needs in their closet

What are your plans for the weekend?

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Links à la Mode | Made her think

This week's Links à la Mode is chock full of thoughtful posts--and I'm so excited that my post on boots and skirts is among them! Check on back to my original post and the roundup of other bloggers rockin' the look.

It's Getting Hot In Here

Edited by Ann of Holier than Now
Though you may be living in a snow globe (sure feels like it here on the East Coast), you're never out in the cold - assuming the snow hasn't knocked out your internet ... This week's links will warm you up with hot topics that, ideally, bring out the best in a thoughtful, vibrant blogging community. Take your gloves off (the wool kind, not the boxing kind) and join the conversation!
P.S. If you'd like your voice heard here in Links a La Mode, take a look at this helpful guide by Grit & Glamour.

Links à la Mode: January 27th

• Alternations Needed Petite Body Tips Are Usually Bunk: Find Out Your Real Body Shape
• Styling You Jeggings: For or Against?
• Ruby-Eyed Okapi How The Media Tells Us How to Look Through the Lies of Photoshop
• Melina Bee 8 Tips on How to Leave Great Comments
• Love Brown Sugar The Great Debate: Do Skinny Girls Have More Fun?
• Fashionwrites On the Controversial Debate on Fashion and Ethnicity
• Peachy Keen A Week with No Pants
• Full Time Fabulous The 10 Commandments of Building a Loyal Blog Readership
• FOTW A Controversial Take on Burberry's SS/11 Campaign
• Independent Fashion Bloggers: Proezna Schouler speaks at IFB Evolving Influence
• The Haute Hoosier One Man Admits His (Sartorial) Man Crush
• A Perfect Midnight What's In a (Blog) Name
• The New Professional Walking the Halls, Not the Streets: Can Tall Boots & Skirts Work for the Office?
• The Demoiselles What Does it Mean to Be Labeled - And Does it Matter?
• Brunette Blogging Privacy and Blogging
• 260 Days No Repeats Can the Stripe Trend Work for Any Body Type?
• Makeup and Jeans Girl Orange Lipstick for All? 5 Tips to Make It Work
• Holier than Now Crossing the Line: The Cross Jewelry Trend - Offensive or Innocent?
• Dress with Courage Androgyny, Prada, and Taylor Swift: My Relationship with Perfume
• Analogue Chic No More Mugshots: How to Look Better in Profile Pics
• Over 50 Feeling 40 Is Fashion Over 50 More Fun?

LINKS A LA MODE IS SPONSORED BY: Shopbop: Clogs, Flats, Heels, Platforms, Knee Highs Boots, Wedge Sandals, Booties, Open Toe, Shoe Sale, Designers

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Card-again and again and again

The Rundown
Cardi via Anthropologie - 2010 - Christmas gift (similar)
Gap top - 2008 - $16 (similar)
BR Factory pants (Ryan fit) - 2009 - $20 (similar)
Enzo Angiolini peep-toes via Nordstrom - 2007 - $70 (similar)
AE chain necklace - 2011 - $4 (similar)

I cannot wait for spring to come back so I can get outdoor photos. I took 50 shots today and ended up with two usable ones. Clocks change again on March 13 here in the US (or at least the states that observe Daylight Savings)--cannot wait for some sun!

What worked
I loved the knot detail and looseness of the cardi.  The sleeves are still fitted so it doesn't look messy, and I kept the top underneath rather fitted as well.

What didn't
Thinking back, I would have preferred this outfit with my black peep-toes.  But I'd planned out this outfit (in my head, I don't have a system) without deciding on a top, and just went with my originally planned shoes (plus, I think my black peep-toes need some maintenance).

How much thought do you put into your outfits? Do you plan ahead, throw on and go, or somewhere in between, like me?

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Inform and conquer

[source]

One of the toughest things about any workplace is navigating the relationships with your coworkers.  And one of the most crucial relationships among coworkers is that of employee-supervisor.  While this topic is vast, today I want to talk about just one aspect: keeping your supervisor informed.

Just for background--I work in a rather small department and I almost always pass things through my supervisor before calling them done.  They've never expressly required it, and often it gets through as is, but they do appreciate it (a lot).  So my tips are based on my experience. There are certainly other factors to consider--your personality, your boss's personality, company policies, industry norms--but I hope this guide is a good place to start. 

Why
Let's face it--every supervisor wants to know what their employees are up to. But they often don't have the time to check in regularly (plus, who wants a micro-managing boss?). Taking small steps to keep your supervisor informed along the way can go a long way in reinforcing your boss's confidence in your work. A win-win.

When
You're obviously communicating with your boss when you need their approval on something, but when else might you want to consider keeping them in the loop? Here are just a few suggestions.

• Conducting basic administrative business. Changes to your regular schedule (one-time or recurring), vacation requests, sick days, you name it. Anything HR may be interested in is usually required to be documented somewhere (usually email for me). [You would think this is a no-brainer, but I've seen a lot of folks remiss in this respect.]
• Updating them on project progress. This could be through a regular email or one-on-one, but could also take the form of a simple cc on project emails.
• Proposing new ideas or projects. If you have an idea for a new project or a major improvement to an existing process, telling your boss and getting their buy-in is the first step to making your idea a reality.
• Sending final work to a client/coworker, regardless of whether your supervisor was required to approve it. It's a quick and easy way to indicate to your boss that a project has been completed, and hopefully any positive feedback will be reply-all-ed by the recipient. Let others toot your horn for you!
• Expressing concerns and offering suggestions.  Do you think a project is headed in the wrong direction? Coming up with a workable solution before approaching your boss with the problem will show that you've thought it through and reflects well on your skills.
• When you might need back-up. While I don't recommend using cc-ing as a threat (as some folks do), some recipients do act differently if they know you're operating with the express approval of your supervisor.  This also gives your supervisor a heads up and helps them look authoritative in the situation.

When not go to your boss: if it's TMI, if something still has typos, or if the answer is a Google search away.

How
Keeping your supervisor informed doesn't have to take up extra time. Here is my quick guide (which I found floating around in my mind) for the best mediums for different communications needs.

• Email: Basic administrative business, meeting requests, attaching things you would like reviewed, project updates.  For important project, email is also a good way to update your supervisor on what's going on, either by direct email or cc on project communications (in case it needs to be documented anywhere)
• Written: Anything that requires paper forms from your HR department or wet signatures. Otherwise email almost always suffices.
• Verbal: Anything more casual than email that doesn't require documentation, such as reminders of schedule changes you've already gotten approved ahead of time, minor changes in lunch hour (if yours is flexible), quick once-over reviews, and project status updates.  Verbal communication is also rather efficient when you're really in a bind on a project and need to bounce ideas off of someone or just need some advice.

When do you and don't you keep your supervisor informed of something? If you are a supervisor, what advice do you have for us direct reports?

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Introducing my new boyfriend

The Rundown
Target tie-neck top - 2010 - swapped (similar)
Loft boyfriend cardigan - 2010 - Christmas gift (available)
Loft pencil skirt - 2009 - $13 (similar)
Argyle tights via Kohl's - 2009 - Christmas gift (similar)
Aerosoles pumps - 2007 - $30 (similar)
Outfit total: $43!

My new boyfriend sweater, that is. (Helllooooo...happily married woman here.)  I wore this on January 11, so it was my first wearing in the office since I got this sweater for Christmas. I've gotta say, all my expectations for a boyfriend sweater were fulfilled and then exceeded. I love this thing to death and it's been hard trying to keep myself from not wearing this every day.  Seeing that I had "boyfriend cardigan" on both my blog wish list and Christmas list, my mother-in-law walked herself to the nearest Loft store and asked the gal about this "boyfriend cardigan" thing she'd heard of. Thank you, C (and the Loft lady)!

This outfit is a little librarian-chic...a little tie-neck here, some loafers there. And of course, the cardigan. The pics above are a little wrinkly, the result of 9 hours in an office chair (I've been good about bringing in lunch lately).

What worked
The colors. The proportions.  After months of tucking things into pencil skirts, it was nice to keep things a little loose.

What didn't
The blockiness of brown on bottom, gray on top. Next time I might try this with gray tights to make the look a little more cohesive.

Have you ever had high expectations for an item of clothing? Were your expectations fulfilled or did the reality fall short?

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Make Believe Monday | Black skinny jeans

It's been a while since I've done a Make Believe Monday. I got a few pieces from my wish list for Christmas (thanks to my wonderful family and friends), and have been busily and happily getting great use out of them. But my shopping diet goes on (for another 37 days), and so will this list. Once I'm back on the shopping track (March 1), I'll be transitioning away from this feature.

But back to the topic at hand. This is more of a Casual Friday item, but I've really been jonesin' for a pair of black skinny jeans. They're just a nice step up from a blue denim on Fridays.

Some tips for wearing skinny jeans at the office:

• Wash. Darker denim is dressier than lighter denim. A more uniform wash looks more office-appropriate than distressed washes.
• Fit. Yes, skinny jeans will be more form-fitting than trousers, but watch out for fits that are too tight. I recommend saving jeggings for the weekend (repeat after me: leggings are not pants for office purposes).

Here are some looks I created with black skinny jeans for Casual Friday. Or just sub them in for a skinny trouser in any office look for a put-together casual.

Skinny Denim by Charlotte Russe
Boots by Coconuts by Matisse

Skinny Denim by Roxy
Pumps by Nine West

And a roundup of black skinnies for your shopping pleasure.

Skinny Denim by Levi's

Are you a fan of black skinnies? How do you style them (for the office or otherwise)?

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Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 01.21.11

K's post-it motivation above his desk as school. We spent Monday (MLK Jr. Day) doing work in his office, since it's close by and there's an extra desk. Don't be jealous, now.

What a week. It's K's birthday tomorrow, and we're going ice skating and then hosting dinner at our place. K is making his own birthday cake. Go him.

While we cook and clean, I hope you enjoy these links!

Fashion and style

• Suze follows up her first post on mixing prints with some tips on where to start if you're just building prints into your wardrobe.
• Check out this J. Crew-inspired DIY over at Krust. I want!
• Or if you're in the mood for something a little warmer, try this easy DIY mitten from the etsy blog.

Career and office

• Home work spaces. I can never get enough. Apartment Therapy delivers.

After hours

• I love how Benita at Chez Larsson turned her 365 photo project into a book. Wheels are turning for a future project. 
• Love the Book of Art. These are so cool. I want to start folding pages in random books.
• Lisa at the Coastal Chicster is holding a giveaway for a moustache mug, just like hers! I highly suggest you enter it, even if you don't want the mug. And if you win, I'll gladly take it off your hands.

What are your weekend plans?

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You the professional: boots + skirts

Have I ever told you how much I love you? When I sent out this call for photos on Wednesday, I had no idea if anyone was even interested, but I am so excited that these girls were! So without further ado, check out their awesome office skirt + boot combos.

Amelia from Assorted Amelia

Trystan from This Is Corp Goth

Kileen from Cute and Little

Eek!

Hope from Hope and the Dress Code

Reader Rachel, who (I hope!) will be starting her style blog soon. Check out her vintage skirt!

 Colleen from Scrap and Run

Jeanna from Third Floor Closet

Faith from Zealous Blonde

Let's give these ladies a hand! Flat boots, tall boots, and all matter of kinds of skirts...they do it all. Check out my tips for rocking the boot + skirt combo here.

Thanks for your participation ladies, and for the great feedback! I'm thinking I may make this a monthly feature with different work style combos.  Who's in?

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I-wish-it-weren't-winter white

The Rundown
Target dobby dot shirt - 2009 - $14 (similar)
Gap sweater - 2005 - $19 (similar)
Ann Taylor Loft corduroy trousers (Marisa cut) - 2006 or earlier - $30ish (similar)
Blake Scott red heels via DSW - 2010 - $40 (similar)
Earrings via Kohl's - 2008 - cheap (similar)

I have no idea when I bought these pants and just a vague idea of how much they were. I know it was before I got married. It may even have been when I was in college. All I know is that they've been sitting at the bottom of a box for the past 3+ years.  And they fit! How fun. I love corduroy. And I should wear these pants more.

What worked
The fun textures!  Dobby dots, cable knit, and corduroy. What's more fun than those?  Wish I had some more color in a texture, though I liked that no two items were the same color.

What didn't
I should have ironed these. But even though I thought about it earlier, I didn't. It was actually more wrinkled before I went to work.

Little trick I hacked this morning--spray some water on the wrinkled area with a spray bottle, and use your hair dryer to dry the area while you pull it taut. I recommend a spray bottle because you don't want it sopping wet (it will take too long to dry) but you don't want it to be too clumpy/spotty, either. I use water when ironing when I don't feel like starching, too.


Have you ever had a major find at the back of your closet or bottom of your dresser?

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Walking the halls, not the streets

Last week, I noted my personal discomfort at flirty tights in the workplace and posed a question to you, my readers--Are there any items you just don't feel comfortable wearing to work even though they're not expressly forbidden by the dress code?  Several ladies brought up the question--can you wear knee high boots with a skirt in the workplace without looking like a hooker?

Yes. Unless the answer is no.  Skirts and knee-highs should be avoided in conservative business professional dress code offices.  But since most workplaces are some kind of hybrid business casual, the answer is yes.

Aside from your office's dress code, here are some things to consider.

• Heel. Flat heels come off as more casual, but not all high heels are created equal, either.  A thicker stacked heel reads better than a stiletto.  Avoid very high heels on boots (maybe 3" tops), which will add to the hooker-ish ambiance.
• Color. Stick to browns and blacks. Grays are a great casual neutral, but may stand out a bit in the office.
• Material/finish. For office wear, opt for a matte leather (or faux, whatever your preference) rather than shiny or patent, which will just serve to bring more attention to the fact that you're wearing knee-highs to the workplace.
• Skirt style. Pairing your boots with an A-line skirt is the safest way to avoid a streetwalker connection, but a pencil shape can be appropriate as well, as long as the material is nice and the fit is not tight.
• Skirt length.  A nice general rule--the higher the boot shaft, the longer the skirt should be. Think of it as a meet-in-the-middle.  If your skirt overlaps with the boot, it's fine (it may feel weird in the beginning, but the overall look is not as awkward as it feels, and certainly not as awkward as being mistaken as the entertainment).  And of course, if the skirt isn't appropriate for the workplace in the first place, don't try wearing it with the boots--it won't help.
• Legwear. From trial and error, I would recommend wearing some kind of legging or tight with boots and skirts if any knee will be showing.
• Condition. Make sure your leather footwear is free of visible scuffs and scratches. Nothing makes you look like a novice more than a scraggly wardrobe.
• Balance. A covered up top goes a long way in balancing out the raciness of the boot. As you'll see below, I pair all my skirt/boot outfits with at least a 3/4 length sleeve. When I wear my boots with skinny jeans, though, I often go sleeveless.  It's all about balance.

I have four pairs of tall boots--flat and heeled in black and brown. But only two of these have made it into my work wardrobe-- my brown ones! My black flat boots are completely ratty, and my black heeled ones are too big. And I've been on more of a brown kick lately.  Here are some ways I've styled my knee-high boots for the office on the blog.

Heeled boots

October 2010 - with a brown corduroy pencil skirt (a little on the short side).
I think this would have looked better with tights.

March 2010 - Having a similar (but different) brown skirt helps downplay the boots
a little and creates an elongated silhouette despite my shortness.  The color
on top also draws the eye up.

April 2010 - Layering textures in the same shade creates a cohesive look
on bottom, and details on top keep the look fun.

Flat boots

November 2010 - Volume in the skirt balances out the leg underneath,
while the belt gives some curves. A turtleneck balances out the skin shown below.

November 2010 - Flat boots with a pencil skirt work when it's not skin tight.

December 2010 - Add length by layering a skirt underneath a dress. 
I think I'm wearing tights under this, too, which downplays the gap
between boot and hem.

Working ladies -- do you wear knee-high boots with skirts to the office? How do you style them?  Email a pic or link to me by Thursday, and I'll do a round-up post of your pics Friday!

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The right stripe

 

The Rundown
Ann Taylor Loft cowl neck top - 2008 - $20 (similar)
Gap outlet sweater - 2008 - $20 (similar)
Old Navy pinstripe pants - 2006 - $20 (similar)
Target nude flats - 2010 - $17 (similar)
Banana Republic Factory Store necklace - 2010 - $10 (similar)

Since yesterday was a holiday, I took the day off. Sorry I didn't give you advance notice (yes, I realize if this was a real job I would be in deep crap for not telling you beforehand I was taking the day off).  But it was a holiday.  I hope you all took a good second to remember the good work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Seeing that I did not go into the office yesterday, here is my outfit from last Thursday.  These are the pants I wear with flats. Yes, the pants. Aside from jeans, these are my only pants that are at the length for flats. Seeing that I don't have a lot of work flats to begin with, I don't know if this deficit really needs to be remedied. I actually used to have these in gray as well, but I grew out of them (width-wise) and gave them to a swap a while back.

What worked
I love a good cowl-neck top. And this sleeveless shell is so versatile. I think that is my favorite part of the outfit.

What didn't
I'm not quite sure what my hair is doing here. It's at that weird stage in growing out where it has a life of it's own. I'm thinking that I need to either a) learn to use my straight iron or b) stick to the ponytail. I'm growing it out until the end of May, so just gotta get through this stage.



Do you have separate sets of pants for flats and for heels? Which do you have more of?

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Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 01.14.11

Trying to kick my second cold of the season. Thanks K for sharing.

Who else is excited for a three-day weekend? I know not everyone gets this day off, but I hope those of you that do take some time to relax and enjoy yourselves. It's finally starting to look up weatherwise in Northern California (meaning it only rained twice this week instead of five times), and even though it's only January and I know spring is still months away, I am so so ready and excited for it.

On to the links! Lots of good stuff this week, so let's get started. [Note, if you come across and neat link you'd like to see featured here, feel free to email it to me anytime during the week. I usually write these posts on Thursday nights, so they run Fri-Thurs.]

Fashion and style

• A little sparkle is a good thing. A lot of sparkle is a great thing. Get your own custom version of this season's hot shoe by following Pixie in Pumps' easy tutorial!
• Another fun DIY for y'all - Assorted Amelia tackles the necklace problem with a sweet hanging frame.
• Loving this BAGGU duck tote featured by Bows and Sparrows (their classic reusable bag is a staple in my purse, too).

Career and office

• Informational interviews can be valuable for expanding your network or learning about a new industry or career path.  Classy Career Girl posts her tips for getting (and acing) one.
• Are you burned out? Would you know if you were? Lifehacker offers their advice for how to recognize burnout and what to do about it.
• Loving this informative article from Woman's Day--10 things your boss won't tell you. The parts on attitude and taking responsibility are my faves on this list.  What are yours?
• Do you prefer working from home or being present in the office? Does it even matter? Employed Panache tackles the question of presence in the office.
• Confession: I throw out "dear" and "hon" like crazy when I talk to my girlfriends (and K).  But I put the cap on it when I get into the office, although we all know someone who doesn't. The Thin Pink Line this week discusses using sweet nicknames in the workplace.
• I'm not big on resolutions, but Miss Social's career-based ones are really inspiring me to get on it, especially seeing her complete her 2010 ones. Do you set career resolutions?

After hours

• My french fry obsession is no secret. And now neither is my desire to visit the Boise Fry Factory. 
• Even when things aren't going your way, there's always at least one good thing you can take away from your day. I love Under the Sycamore's nifty DIY best of days notepad...so creative, and I could see it being so uplifting, too!
• Although I don't read as much as I'd like to, I love books.  And when I grow up (ahem), I'd like to have a library in my home, like one of these.

Have a great Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend!  Aren't civil rights grand?

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Party tights and forgetting

The Rundown
H&M cardigan - 2009 - $30 (similar)
Ann Taylor top - 2010 - $20 (similar)
Banana Republic skirt - 2010 - $70 (similar)
Merona polka dot tights via Target - 2010 - $7 (available)
Nina gold pumps via Ross - 2009 - $16 (similar)
Natural pearl necklace - 2007 - gift (similar)
American Eagle layered necklace - 2011 - $4 (similar)
Premier Designs faux pearl earrings - 2010 - $20 (similar)

OK, so I lied. But I didn't do it on purpose. You see, when I wrote this guest post for Classy Career Girl about a month ago, I actually wrote that I cheated three times.  However, when I went back to add links, I could only find two links. I tried and tried but could not for the life of me remember what my third cheat was. Had I counted the two pieces of my skirt suit? Unlikely. So I changed it to "twice" and linked both cheats I could remember. But the third cheat just would not get out of my mind. Had I just imagined it?

Well, folks, I found it.  It's this top!  I bought it during my business trip to Las Vegas last September because in my post-magazine deadline and post-birthday daze (I was at work until 2 am the night before I left, and I never pack more than a few hours beforehand), I did not bring enough business clothes for the conference.  So I ducked into Caesar's Palace and grabbed this top to wear for Friday's award luncheon. 

So there. My last confession.  I've got a scant 47 days left to this shopping diet, and I'm going to go out with a bang. You're hearing it here first--I'm cutting ALL shopping in February. Except for groceries, that is. But no shoes, accessories, or underwear, either.

What worked
This top and skirt mimics one of my favorite shapes: the sheath dress.  I love the length and high waist of this skirt.  I also tried teasing my hair and poufing up the back a little, and I really like the result.

What didn't
Not really a "didn't work" but, to be honest, I'm not so down with these tights on a regular work day. I added them for fun, because there was a baby shower at work today (and no meetings)!  But something about the sheer black and polka dots just seem too flirty for the workplace. Or my workplace at least. This is the second time I've worn these in the office, but the first full day. I don't think I'll be wearing them to work again (but for play, definitely).

Are there any items you just don't feel comfortable wearing to work even though they're not expressly forbidden by the dress code?

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It's your turn

[source]

Just about every Wednesday for nearly a year now, you've seen some kind of work etiquette or advice post.  While I still have quite the list of topics on deck for future Wednesdays, I wanted to take today to open it up to suggested work etiquette and professional topics.  Sure, I can pull topics out of my purse all day (where else did you think they came from?), but I'd rather address topics you care about, too.

So whether you're an office veteran or fresh out of school, I want to know--what questions do you have about work etiquette, professional development, dress codes, and career growth?

I'm open to anything, no matter how simple or complex.  Leave your questions in the comments below or email me, and I will get to work answering (or finding guest bloggers to answer) your burning questions.

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Think warm, be warm

The Rundown
H&M shirt - 2010 - swapped (similar)
Gray cami via Costco - 2008 - 2 for $12 (similar)
Old Navy tweed trousers - 2006 - $6 (similar)
Enzo Angiolini peep-toe pumps - 2007 - $70 (similar)
Forever 21 chain bracelet - 2010 - $5 (similar)
Kohl's chain necklace - 2009 - ? (similar)

Happy Monday, folks!  In case you're wondering, it's still winter here in Sacramento. Why, then, did I wear a short sleeve shirt and open-toed shoes to work today? Beats me. I blame it on my second cold of the season (thanks, K) and overall Monday delirium.  Funny thing was, with my space heater on by my toes and hot tea always at hand, I withstood the cold just fine.  Just like people always say to "think cool" in the summer, maybe I should try thinking warm more often. Sure, it's probably all in my mind, but what isn't?

What worked
I grabbed this shirt from a swap last fall, and this is the first time I've worn it. I have no idea why I waited so long, because I love it! The color is great (I've been really into purple lately), the puff sleeves are cute and demure, and the slip-on style with vertical seams gives the illusion of a flat stomach.  OK, so maybe taking pics right after dinner was not the best depiction of that, but just be thankful I waited until after pics to eat dessert, ok? Oh, and guess what was for dessert? Drumsticks. We had them last night, too.

What didn't
Not too weather appropriate (today's high was in the low 50s), but I didn't go outside all day. I probably should have brought a cardigan, but these sleeves do cover the shoulder, so if it were warmer, it would be able to stand on its own easily.

Do you dress for the weather always or do you sometimes scoff in its face?  Any other "think warm" believers like me?

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Office Supply of the Month | Staples

Pardon me for skipping the Office Supply of the Month for December. I was all caught up in this remixing challenge (you may have heard of it), and didn't realize I'd forgotten it until it was way too late! But have no fear, I am back on track with this whole posting thing. For this month--staples!

History
Staples have a long and varied past; metal staples have been found possibly dating as far back as the 6th century BC in Iran, and are thought to have been used to secure stones together in construction. The first known stapler was invented in the 18th century for King Louis XV of France. Following that, several mechanisms for stapling were invented, ones that would insert the staple but not secure it, and others that would secure the staple after it had been inserted.  A handheld stapler that would both insert and clinch a staple was patented by Henry Heyl in 1877.

Uses

• Stapling things to a bulletin board, item by item or to cover the whole thing (like I covered mine with fabric)
• Staple up a falling hem
• For crafts: staple chains, sticking in the sides of wax candles (designs)

Fun with staples

Do you have any interesting uses for staples or staplers? Do you prefer traditional, staple-less or electric staplers?

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