The New Professional Freelancer | Style and Professionalism Out of the Office

Elsewhere in the blogosphere...

2012-02-08T14:41:00.002-05:00

Just popping in for a quick update. Even though I stopped blogging here, I still had a huge backlog of professional topics to address (and more ideas every day), so I brought it along with me.

The New Professional is now a weekly installment on my personal blog, Memoranda. Check it out here.

I'll be reposting some oldie but goodie posts from this blog, but it's mostly new content. Today begins a mini-series on internships: picking the right one, making the most out of the one you get, and (for those of us that have made it to the other side) managing an intern to maximize the benefits for both you and them. So head on over and let's continue the discussion!

[psst, if you haven't stopped by already, there are some new(ish) outfit posts on Facebook, too. Don't say I didn't warn you.]

And since no post is complete without a photo, here is a shot of South Beach. My family came into town for the weekend and had never been before, so I obliged.

It's been fun, folks...

2011-12-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

...but it's time to say goodbye to our regular rendezvous here. It's not you, it's me.

I'll still be all over the Internets chirping away and updating The New Professional Facebook page, and you know how to reach me if you need me. You may even see semi-regular outfit pics on Twitter and Facebook (no promises). I'll also be posting every so often on my personal website, though in a much less focused and disciplined form than I've been doing here. I've truly enjoyed getting to know you, and am definitely still available to answer any of your questions and to dispense free advice on anything (though I must warn, my expertise is rather limited). I certainly haven't run out of words.

I'm still in shock that anyone reads this blog. Some of you may even have been around since the beginning. I love each and every one of you crazies. Thanks for making this the most popular hobby I've ever had.

All in the family [outfit]

2011-12-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

Vintage sweater - given to me in the 1990s by my mom / Joie shorts from Nordstrom - 2011 - $26 (using gift card) / Old Navy belt - cheap? / LOFT sandals - 2009 - $10 on sale / American Eagle chain necklace - 2011 - $4 on clearance

I was digging through the boxes under my bed the other day when I rediscovered this sweater. It was my mom's before me, and was given to her by my dad's mom. It is unclear whether my grandma owned it and wore it before she gave it to my mom or whether it was purchased by my grandmother as a gift for my mom. Either way, it's older than I am.

Bonus—it looks like a sleeved version of the sweater Debbie Reynolds wore in the "Good Morning" segment of Singing in the Rain (my favorite movie of all time).

[Image source: Rotten Tomatoes]

Jungle preppy [outfit]

2011-12-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

Target Dress - 2011 - $12 on sale / J.Crew outlet belt - 2011 - $5 on sale / Nine West shoes from Marshalls or Ross - 2011 - $25 (using birthday money) / Banana Republic necklace - 2010 - $12 on sale

One of the biggest changes to my wardrobe now that I'm not in an office anymore is my hemline. For work, I was a staunch knee-length skirter. Any shorter seemed scandalous. Sure, I wore shorter skirts on weekends, but after dressing up all week I usually stuck to plain jeans.

But now? Well, you've seen me lately. Those longer skirts have been gathering dust in my closet. I must be making up for lost time or something. This dress is one of my go-tos, and I've been switching up belts each time. Today was pink's turn. In my mind, green + pink = preppy. Love it.

Lotuff & Clegg giveaway winner

2011-12-06T15:00:00.000-05:00

We have a winner for the Lotuff & Clegg iPad sleeve!

Congrats to Schmidty, whose email was visible on the Blogger profile. You will receive an email this afternoon for your address, and I will ship out your prize ASAP!

Groovy [outfit]

2011-12-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

Target sweater - 2011 - $20 / Target tank - 2011 - $8 / Old Navy jeans - 2009 - $12 on sale / LOFT sandals - 2008 - $10 on sale / DIY scarf / Kate Spade Doodle necklace - 2011 - gift

Friends, I have been on a roll lately. Just thought you'd like to know.

I've been on the hunt for a poncho sweater for a while, so when I turned around from the Target sale racks disappointed and walked straight into this gem, my brain nearly exploded. I rarely have gottahaveit moments, but I had a big one with this sweater, so much so that I bought it at full price (a rarity for me). I bought it a size too large because they didn't have my size in the store, but I like how loosey goosey it is this way. Definitely a new favorite.

Friends, I have also been on a majorly dramatic mood lately. Just thought you'd like to know.

A-Baseling we go [outfit]

2011-12-05T08:30:00.000-05:00

Francesca's Collections dress - 2011 - $44 / Steve Madden boots from Macy's - 2009 - gift card + $3 / Belt - 2010 - swapped / Kate Spade Doodle necklace - 2011 - gift / Gold ring from Joanna Paige - 2011 - $16 (birthday money) / Nancy Rosetta silver circle ring - 2009 - gift

When in Miami, do as the Miami-ans do. Saturday night, K and I went to our very first Art Basel Miami Beach. I don't know much (ok, anything) about art, but I love looking at it. When we travel to new places, we gravitate toward museums and galleries rather than restaurants, attractions, and other activities. My favorite artist shown was Kate Gilmore, especially her video piece Buster. Check her out. Amazing. Art definitely inspires me, but to do what I'm not quite sure yet. I just love the energy and creativity of it all.

Art Basel is a place to see and be seen. It is one of the largest (if not the largest) modern art fair in the world. Rumor has it that it is now larger than the original Art Basel in Switzerland. Insane. We went Saturday night, and I had no idea what to wear. It took me a crapload of outfits before I settled on the one I finally wore, which was a variation on what I wore for our Christmas card photo this year (but only for about 30 minutes for pics). Check out the pile of discarded clothes that I had to put away at the end of the night:

Oops.

What inspires you? What types of attractions do you gravitate toward when you travel?

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 12.02.11

2011-12-02T15:00:00.000-05:00

My everyday stash of lip products. Clear, neutral, coral, burgundy, and orange.

Welcome to December! K's first semester of teaching is winding down, so we're planning on exploring Art Basel or one of the other satellite events this weekend.

It's been a while since I've been up to date on my blog reading, but here are some recent goodies for you.

Monica of Oh Sweet Escape shares her recipe for McDs-esque apple pies over on Unstitched. I have to try this.
Destrehan's Daughter asks if our workwear is bleeding out of the office. My answer: not as much as I'd like it to. My poor pencil skirts are wilting from unuse.
Nothing we don't know already, but I'm always drawn toward these Photoshop before and afters. Check out the latest from Mashable.
It's hard to draw the line with work when we carry little mini-computers in our purses everywhere. The Levo League offers some suggestions on how to draw boundaries.
Work-life balance is a huge topic these days, regardless of your age, marital status, or whether you have children, but traditionally employer programs or assistance with this balance was directed at mothers. The Grindstone explores the widespread desire for balance among child-free Generation Y women.
If your parents are like mine and want all your belongings out of their house, check out Lifehacker's rundown on the best ways to donate your old stuff.
We all need a little outside inspiration from time to time, and I love the collection of inspirations that Stepcase Lifehack has compiled. I want to hang them everywhere.

What good reads have you found this week?

Perfect [outfit]

2011-12-02T08:30:00.000-05:00

Paper Tee plaid shirt from Ross - 2009 - $7 / Express jeans - 2005 - $40 on sale / Target flip flops - 2009 - $7 on sale / Gold-tone ring from Joanna Paige - 2011 - $16 (birthday money) / NYC Color nail polish in Flat Iron Green - $2

Not me, of course (how boring would that be?). I'm talking about this outfit. I know it's super simple, but I feel like I could conquer the world in this outfit (maybe from behind the computer screen or phone). I woke up today super-motivated and then got sidetracked by the computer, like most days. Logged in some work, did laundry, and ran errands with coupons.

Ah, coupons. I'm not a couponer, not because I don't want to be, but because I am not gifted in this area of shopping. I find most grocery store coupons useless because our local store doesn't double coupons ever and the store brands I buy are usually cheaper than the name brand on sale (or best case scenario: store brands on sale). I did have a bunch of non-grocery shopping coupons, so I went to see what there was to see.

The coupons I hate the most are the "Get $x off of your $xx purchase," because they are designed to make you buy more than you may actually want to or need just to get the deal. Several of the coupons I had today were of that variety. But I think I made out pretty well by keeping my total to just above the threshold. Still got a few things I didn't need (darn you, Target), but I can always return them.

Are you a couponer? What kinds of retailer gimmicks do you dislike the most?

Lotuff and Clegg review and giveaway

2011-12-01T08:30:00.000-05:00

I love leather goods. I really do. I understand some of you may not agree with real leather, and if that's you, you're welcome to ignore this post completely.

If you're a fellow leather lover like me, you know how good the buttery leather feels to the touch, how durable it is, and how it ages beautifully with time and care. Quite a few months back, Lotuff & Clegg, a New England-based leather goods company, asked me if I'd be interested in telling my readers about them and testing out a bag. A quick glance at their website confirmed that these goods, while beautiful, do not come cheap, and low prices are one of the main things I look for when I shop. I told them my qualms and asked if there was something they could throw in for my readers, since the product sounded great, but the price, not so much. I wasn't going to plug something that my readers have no way of getting their hands on. They agreed, but more on that later.

They sent me one of their leather working totes in chocolate. And it sat in my apartment for, oh, four months. Where in the world do you take such a thing? The only use I could imagine for it was as a travel tote, so I waited until my trip to Southern California in October to try it out.

Check out the size of this thing (yes, those are workout clothes).

It fits a lot. Shown: purse, iPad, thick book, water bottle (to fill up after getting through security), scarf, point-and-shoot camera, cardigan, bag of food (gingersnaps and a sandwich), bag of liquids, bag of electronic chargers and cords.

Pros:

Quality. This is the real deal. The leather is thick and sturdy, and the stitching is tight and even. A lot of care went into making this bag, and it shows. Makes sense, since the company is known for their craftsmanship. They even have a cool video on their website about it. They manufacture all their bags in Massachusetts.
Color. The tote I reviewed was a deep, rich, goes-with-everything brown. Lotuff & Clegg uses a vegetable dying and tanning process using all organic ingredients. I thought that was pretty cool.
Capacity and sturdiness. In addition to the stuff shown above, I also ended up stuffing in a laptop and board game (to give to my nephew).
Perfect travel tote size. It's large enough to fit all my essentials and still fits under the seat in front of me. When I had the laptop and game in there it fit best lying on its side, but on my most recent trip (without laptop), it actually fit just fine standing up on its bottom since there weren't any tall items that couldn't squish.

Cons:

Price. Quality does not come cheap (although a girl can dream). But if you're on the market for this type of leather good, you're probably already used to these prices. The tote I reviewed retails for $750 (three times the price of my wedding dress).
Weight. Leather is heftier than synthetic materials, and when you combine that with the large capacity of this tote (and how much you're tempted to cram in), you've got yourself quite the shoulder weight.
Practicality (for me, at least). Like I mentioned, this tote sat in my apartment for four months because I couldn't figure out how to use it. But that's just this item and my lifestyle. If you're a tote carrier already, you'd probably get a lot of use out of this.

And now onto the fun stuff.

Lotuff & Clegg is giving away a red leather iPad sleeve to one lucky New Professional reader!
Keep your iPad snug and safe in this beauty or wrap it up for the technophile on your holiday gift list (retail value $150). No, the iPad does not come with it.

To enter, just leave a comment below telling me your favorite leather product and leaving a valid email.*

The giveaway ends Monday, December 5, at 11:59 p.m. EST and the winner will be announced on Tuesday, December 6. Prize will be mailed out as soon as winner provides their address (can be yours before Christmas).

Edited to add: Giveaway open to U.S. residents only. I will be doing the shipping and it is just too pricey to ship internationally. Sorry!

*Please note: Just because you are commenting from a Google or Blogger profile does not mean your email is automatically attached to your comment. To make your email visible from your Google/Blogger profile, you must go into your profile, click "Edit," enter an email under "identity," and make sure that privacy is set to "show my email address." If you have already left a comment but forgot your email or if your email is set to private, you have two options to complete your entry into this giveaway: 1) leave a second comment with your email referencing your first comment by date/time/name or 2) email me with your email address and referencing your first comment by date/time/name. Thanks!

Disclaimer: Lotuff & Clegg loaned me a leather working tote free of charge and donated the iPad case for giveaway. No compensation was exchanged for the review or giveaway and no agreement was made to guarantee positive coverage. I'll be putting the work tote back in the mail to Lotuff & Clegg next week. Aside from this review and giveaway, I have no other relationship with the company; clicking on the links in this post will not benefit me in any way. I just wanted to pass on some leathery goodness.

Casual Tuesday [outfit]

2011-11-29T21:41:00.001-05:00

Gap blazer - 2006 - $40? / Ann Taylor outlet top - 2011 - $20 / Rockabilly jeans from Renew Denim - 2010 - $30? / Calvin Klein pumps from Off Broadway - 2007 - $70 on sale / Braided leather belt from Bows and Arrows - 2010 - $12 / Oblong hoop earrings, probably from Target or Kohl's - 2009 - cheap

Back in action after Thanksgiving! It was so nice to see friends and family, and totally gave me new motivation to get to work. We did our regular rounds: K's grandpa's house (Thanksgiving Day), my parents' house (home base), my girlfriends (twice!), and K's best friend (though we could have done without the food poisoning).

Since this was our first trip together since we moved out to Miami, I learned a few valuable lessons. First, FLL is not always cheaper than MIA, but MIA is always closer and should be chosen whenever possible. Second, red-eye flights, once my saving grace when I was young and energetic, are a really bad idea now. My body does not adjust as well as it used to. Our return trip started at 11pm PST and ended at 12:45pm EST the next day, and it still cost an arm and a leg. Um...anyone want to do Thanksgiving in Miami next year? I'm volunteering to host.

Back to the outfit.

We're finally getting into winter here Miami, which means it's in the 70s now. So I pulled out my trusty blazer. Although I usually wear it open, it was looking a little boxy so I buttoned it up. Not bad, still fits. I really liked the classic silhouette and how the color of the top and the sleeve lining really pop. I stayed with a brown belt on this even though I'm wearing a black blazer and shoes (and used a black bag, too).

My formula for mixing black and brown is either multiples of each, or multiples of one and a single pop of the other (yes, I totally made this up on my own). I'll rarely wear just one brown item and just one black item, but if there are three or more black/brown opportunities, I'll mix it up.

What "rules" have you made up for yourself (sartorially or otherwise)?

I rock the iPad

2011-11-29T10:03:00.001-05:00

Left these at home for my trip, but brought them with me on the iPad.

For the first time in a long time, I went on vacation without my computer. Although I did have access to my parents study room, I went on it only once, to print my boarding passes for our return flight. I did, oh, about 5 minutes of actual work, too (reviewing my latest post over at the Daily Muse). Aside from those two tasks, I stuck to my phone and iPad, which more than did the trick.

I'll be the first to say I was skeptical about the iPad. And then I received one as a gift (thanks, M&B!), and now I'm addicted. I've had it for about five months now, and it's been a great tool. My favorite uses for the iPad?

Reading. I wasn't looking for an e-reader of any sort, but I have to say, I read more now than I have in years thanks to the iPad. Not just ebooks (I use the Kindle app and iBooks, depending on price and where I have a gift card), but also magazines and blogs. Nearly all of my print subscriptions have digital counterparts that are free with my existing subscription. It really comes in handy when I don't want to lug a pile of magazines with me on a plane or to the treadmill. As for blogs, I use MobileRSS free, which syncs with Google Reader and easily opens posts in the browser when I want to comment.

Blogging. I never thought I'd need it, but I bought a blogging app and love it (I use Blogsy). If I already have photos uploaded into my Picasa or if I'm using a creative commons photo from Flickr, it's super easy to get my text ready and publish from the iPad. More often, I type a post and then save to draft to polish and add photos on my computer.

Communication. Though I already have a smartphone, I prefer to use my iPad to respond to messages when I have it handy. I've also started using Skype and FaceTime since I've had my iPad. It's easier to hold than my laptop so I can walk around with it (I gave my friend a video tour of my apartment on our first Skype chat), and it's nice to be able to video chat with my iPhone-toting friends (I'm a Droid owner myself).

Entertainment. I keep up with HGTV and Bravo shows through their apps, and have been known to like a few games as well. And then, of course, there are those Saturday mornings spent rifling through YouTube videos in bed.

Just to clarify, I am not an Apple fan girl. I've never even bought an Apple product (my MacBook is a hand-me-down). But I see iPads everywhere, and have found mine to be really useful. I hope this post will be useful for fellow iPad owners who want to get more out of their tool. There are many other tablet options out there that probably have similar features if you're on the market for one.

No iPad post would be complete without a link to this gem (possibly NSFW), which came out years before the actual iPad. Enjoy!

Tablet users—what are your favorite apps and uses?

Thankful

2011-11-23T08:35:00.001-05:00

I have quite a few thank-you cards in my card box, but this one is my fave. Down to my last one.

It's been quite the year, hasn't it? I have a lot to be thankful for.

A safe and relatively uneventful cross-country move and a really good job for K
New friends and our new church in Miami
Family all over the country (and world), and a healthy new baby nephew
Dear friends in Sacramento and Davis, who made me feel at home for the past four years
My former job and the opportunities it continues to give me
A roof over our heads and food in our fridge
A modern dishwasher
Good health for myself and my family
The ocean view from our window
Palm trees
Airplanes
Internet, phone, Skype, FaceTime
Southern California, which feels more and more like home the further I move away
A ton of other stuff that I won't bore you with

Happy Thanksgiving! Be back Tuesday.

Newness [outfit]

2011-11-22T08:30:00.000-05:00

A'gaci blazer - 2011 - $30 / Gap favorite T - 2011 - $7 on sale / Joie shorts from Nordstrom - 2011 - gift card / Franco Sarto heels from Piperlime - 2011 - $45 on sale / Kate Spade doodle necklace - 2011 - gift

It never fails that I get new ideas in one of two situations: in bed before I fall asleep (the only justifiable reason for me to keep my iPad on my nightstand) and on a lazy day reading through a stack of magazines. Saturday was my lazy day this weekend and I'm finally up to date on my magazines, which resulted in this super-new Sunday outfit.

What's so new about these pieces you've seen a million times already? Well, they were all purchased in 2011. That's pretty new. Heels with shorts a la Kileen? New to me. And a center part? Totally new.

One of the fun parts of fashion is that when you try new things, there is usually little to no commitment needed. All of these items are already staples in my closet, so throwing them together was easy. And switching up your part is a great no-scissors-needed update.

The hair-spiration? The never-aging Ms. Moore, of course. I saw this ad in a magazine and all my back and forth about my hair disappeared.

[source]

Doesn't hurt that my usual hair icon, LC, also rocks the center part from time to time. More about my LC obsession here.

I don't think the heels plus shorts look is for me, although I would never have known if I hadn't tried. The center part, though, is here to stay. At least for this week.

Who are your hair inspirations?

Andewyn Jewelry giveaway winner

2011-11-21T17:00:00.000-05:00

And we have a winner for the Andewyn Jewelry giveaway!

Congratulations, Elana! You will be receiving an email shortly connecting you Adrienne to redeem your $30 store credit. Enjoy!

Flower power [outfit]

2011-11-21T10:49:00.001-05:00

Target dress - 2011 - $6.50 on clearance / Franco Sarto boots - 2010 - gift / random rings on a chain

I have no idea how one would describe my style, but if there's one thing that it characteristically is not is floral (I know floral is not a style, but you catch my drift). I've accumulated a few (very few) floral pieces of clothing throughout the years, but I don't wear them often. I'm just not all that attracted to florals, and even the ones I do like and own, I find difficult to actually wear.

The exception: I've been longing—obsessing, even—over finding the perfect floral minidress to rock with boots (and a jacket when it gets cooler). There's just something so laidback and boho/rocker about that combo. But I'm a picky one and I've spent years trying to find the perfect dress.

This one isn't traditionally floral, and it isn't completely perfect, but for $6, I figured I'd try it out. The sheer top layer keeps the black wearable in Miami, although the built-in slip leaves much to be desired (one should not have to choose between covering bra or underwear). Good thing I have a black slip that I can pin up and slip under for added protection.

The verdict? I like it. The print, the length, the flow. These boots give it a polished hippie vibe, but I think I'll try them with more rugged boots next time for a little grunge.

Is there a style/print/type of clothing that just isn't you but you had to try it anyway?

Friday | Open thread

2011-11-18T09:37:00.001-05:00

A thank-you card I recently received from a client. Adorable, isn't it?

Confession time: I read maybe a handful of blog posts this week (maybe). This week has been one of those ruts where I have bursts of productivity followed by stretches of inaction. Been feeling a little off, to the point where I sang Rebecca Black's Friday to K last night before bed. Exactly.

So I'm opening it up to you this weekend, my dear readers. What's on your mind today?

Slick [outfit]

2011-11-17T08:58:00.001-05:00

Ann Taylor Loft top - 2005 - ? / Merona trouser jeans from Target - 2011 - $18 on sale / Franco Sarto heels from Piperlime - 2011 - $45 on sale

Reminiscing on last week's story reminded me of this tie-neck top (the other remaining part of my interview outfit). Yup, still love it.

In my procrastination of doing anything to my hair, my bangs have grown out to the point where they can be completely tied back into my ponytail. Usually, I only wear my hair this way for working out, but I decided to try it for a normal day of errands and volunteering. I got a few compliments on it, but I'm not fully convinced yet—I've always had bangs of some sort (and I still sort of have sweepy bangs when my hair is down), and I'm not sure I'm ready to go bang-less.

Do you switch from bangs to no bangs? What do you take into consideration?

Five ways to try new things at work

2011-11-16T09:06:00.001-05:00

[sam.d]

After the honeymoon period of your new job ends, things usually settle into the mundane. You can guess what you'll be doing at any point during the week and know that you'll probably still be doing something similar six months from now (same tasks, different projects). OK, so six months isn't a long time, but what if it drags on longer and you start to get bored? Don't just jump back into the job market—with some creativity and courage, you may be able to find new and exciting opportunities where you are.

Here are some tips on how to get new projects at work. These work best if you're already killing it at your current duties (otherwise you just come across as bored and slackerish).

Talk to you supervisor. Chances are, your supervisor has big plans for your department, but has been holding back to avoid over-working the staff. Check in and let your supervisor know that you're game to try new things or that you've been getting your mundane work done too quickly. Being proactive could mean getting first dibs on the fun stuff. Be careful that you don't sound ungrateful or bratty.

Solve a problem. We all get frustrated by work processes that seem outdated, inefficient, or just downright unnecessary. Instead of venting to your coworkers about how you would solve that problem if it were up to you, why don't you tell someone who has some clout and actually change things? I promise, the Kardashians will continue to provide good watercooler fodder if you find you have nothing work-related to complain about.

Talk to coworkers from other departments. Find out what's going on in their neck of the woods to see if there are any opportunities for collaboration. This works best if your department serves other departments (for example, the communications and marketing department I was in at my previous job), but there can be opportunities for collaboration otherwise as well. Most companies encourage collaboration, especially if the partnership can increase results, streamline things, or save money. Bring these ideas to your supervisor.

Pitch a new idea or innovation. Have you seen something really cool lately that you think might be applicable to your company? Do you research—find out exactly what is involved in implementing the new idea, what kind of results (preferably measurable) it can produce, how the new idea or tool relates to your company's goals and mission, and what manpower or resources are required to do it successfully. And then pitch it!

Learn a new skill. It's easy for a supervisor to automatically assign a project to the team member that already has a skill, but isn't that what makes work get mundane in the first place? Doing lots of things we already know? If there is a task or type of project that you're interested in working on but don't have the skill and if there seems to be a need for more of that skill in your department, see if your company will spring for some training. Try to frame it in a way that sets you apart from coworkers with similar skills (for example, pursuing video production if you already have photog coworkers to get in on media projects).

I've tried all of these methods, and each has worked for me at some point or another. There's no guarantee they'll always work, but even an unsuccessful attempt will send a message to your supervisor that you're ready for something new.

How have you paved your own new way at work? Do you have any additional tips or advice to build on these?

If you have to ask... [outfit]

2011-11-15T08:30:00.000-05:00

A'gaci blazer - 2011 - $30 / Limited maxi dress - 2007 - $20 on sale / Mossimo tank - 2010 - $7 on sale / Steve Madden boots from Macy's - 2009 - gift card + $3 / NY & Co necklace - 2010 - gift

I was going to name this post "Does this match?" And then I realized that if I have to ask, the answer is probably not, but I'll wear it anyway. It was slightly gloomy last week, so I wanted to be more covered up. Plus, boots always make me feel better.

And, of course, after I confessed my recent apathy for shopping last week, I went on a slight bender over the weekend (if by bender you mean dropping $25 at Target for two t-shirts and a 75% off dress). Just when I started getting all cocky about my recent money-saving ways.

What's your take when you question what you're wearing? Do you ask for a second opinion, change, or keep on keepin' on?

Andewyn Jewelry [giveaway]

2011-11-14T08:30:00.000-05:00

I am a metals gal when it comes to jewelry (with pearls being a close second). Silver is my go-to metal, which is why I fell in love with Andewyn Jewelry when Adrienne first emailed me a few months back.

Andewyn Jewelry is handmade in the good ol' USA (Nashville, to be exact). Adrienne, the owner and designer behind this shop, is inspired by nature. I'm especially enamored with her new mixed metal pieces for all, since I've been mixing some metals myself. Her pieces have a delicate and almost ethereal quality to them, and can be dressed up or down.

Here are some of my favorite pieces from Andewyn Jewelry's etsy shop.

Clockwise from top left: silver circles necklace, yellow jade earrings, turquoise stacking ring, rustic post earrings, copper pendant necklace, sterling silver rustic beaded stacking ring

Andewyn Jewelry is giving away a $30 store credit to one lucky New Professional reader!
Grab some jewels for yourself or get a head start on your holiday shopping.

To enter, simply leave a comment below with a valid email address. I'd love to hear what your favorite Andewyn Jewelry piece is, too, so head over to their etsy shop and browse around.

Giveaway ends Thursday, November 17, and the winner will be announced on Monday, November 21. This giveaway is open to U.S. and international readers.

Disclosure: Andewyn Designs is a sponsor of The New Professional and has a paid sidebar ad. No additional compensation was provided to secure this giveaway or positive coverage.

Edited to add: Please include a valid email in your comment. Just because you are commenting from a Google or Blogger profile does not mean your email is automatically attached to your comment. To make your email visible from your Google/Blogger profile, you must go into your profile, click "Edit," and enter an email under "identity" and make sure that "privacy" is set to "show my email address." If you have already left a comment but forgot your email or if your email is set to private, you have two options to complete your entry into this giveaway: 1) leave a second comment with your email referencing your first comment by date/time/name or 2) email me with your email address and referencing your first comment by date/time/name. Thanks!

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 11.11.11

2011-11-11T10:27:00.001-05:00

My goal this week was to meet all my deadlines (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday-Thursday), and my reward was cracking open (err...clicking to open) Mindy Kaling's new book. I have a mad girl-crush on her right now. Sensational.

Happy Veterans' day, y'all! Please take some time today to shower thanks on those that have served our grand old country and let them know that you appreciate them.

After hectic week I'm excited to take a break today and tomorrow (Sunday afternoons are really productive for me so Friday and Saturday usually make up my weekend). Hitting up a Marilyn Monroe exhibit opening today and hoping to check out the Arboleda Vintage and Handmade Crafts Festival tomorrow (after my group run...not looking forward to that).

Some good stuff from around the Internets. Like I mentioned earlier this week, I'm a little sick of shopping and clothes, and have been reading mostly informative, career-related articles.

The Grindstone: I'm the boss: How to transition from coworker to leader
The Daily Muse: Upscale dining, decoded
Mashable: Kina Grannis + 288,000 jelly beans = epic music video
Women 2.0: The income disparity of women in the creative class
Stepcase Lifehack: How to stay positive in the workplace
Forbes Woman: 7 signs your shopping may be problematic and 3 keys to healing

What good reads have you found lately? Feel free to fill in my lack of fashion and style links with some of your own recent faves in the comments.

Business as usual [outfit]

2011-11-10T08:30:00.000-05:00

White blouse from Macy's - 2007 - gift card / Gap sweater - 2005 - $20? / Limited skirt - 2009 - $20 on sale / Enzo Angiolini pumps from Piperlime - 2010 - $35 / Necklace c/o Jada's Jewels - 2011

This is the most professional outfit I've worn in weeks. I'm not quite sure what it was (probably the fact that it was a Monday after a vacation), but I was just feeling it. I wanted the dressed up feeling. I wanted to wear heels. I didn't go far in this outfit, but it felt good while I was in it.

Now onto this sweater. I don't wear it often, but I've had it a long time and will probably never get rid of it. I remember the details of my purchasing the piece pretty clearly.

Let me set the scene.

Early September 2005. I recently moved to New York City begin grad school at NYU. One of the activities on our orientation week schedule is a job/internship fair. I only have three semesters to soak in all the journalism I can before I'm likely headed back to California, so I print out a stack of resumes and hit up some tables. I drop off a couple of resumes.

A few days later (I think it was the first week of classes) I have a free afternoon, so I decide to take a stroll over to Broadway in Soho to check out the shops. It's just a few blocks from my school-issued shared studio, and right before I get there, next to a wrought iron gate, I get a phone call. It's Time Inc. As in publisher of Real Simple, People magazine, In Style. I dropped off my resume and chatted with their internship coordinator a bit at the job fair, and it was at the top of my dream list.

After silently squealing in joy for a few seconds, I listen closely as the woman invites me in for an interview. I can't remember if she mentions what magazine or not, but no matter. I'm already in shopping mode, so I switch my mission to finding the perfect interview outfit. I walk into the Gap and head straight for the sale racks, since I'm fresh out of college and surviving on student loans and minimal savings. No luck. But then cable knit catches my eye. There are stacks of it in various colors on some shelves. And a small sign that says, "hey, these are on sale, too!" Not in those exact words. And that is how this sweater came to be mine.

I wore this sweater over this tie-neck top (purchased the same day) with black Forever 21 pants and red Payless flats. I remember feeling like I belonged in a country club. It must have gone well, since I got the internship (not with one of the big name mags, but with a smaller, custom publication). It was an awesome three semesters.

What clothing items do you still own and wear that hold the greatest memories?

Freelance files | Open for business

2011-11-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

My new mini moo cards. Thanks, Klout (and Twitter friends).

As I'm going out and meeting new people in my new city, I get asked a lot of questions. The most common questions?

What do you do?
So what do you do?
How do you get started doing that?

My answers?

Some combination of the following words: freelance, contract, writer, communications, social media, nonprofits, grants, editing.
Write reports, grants, proposals, articles, web content, marketing copy and blog posts, format and layout documents, produce print and online publications (like e-newsletters), copyedit and consult on social media strategy and communications. Not at all once, of course.
Good question.

I don't have much of an answer yet for the third question because I sort of fell into this freelance thing and because it's different for everyone. I've been doing freelance copy editing since grad school, and have done a few freelance articles here and there as well. I added in freelance grant and proposal writing about two years ago, and the rest is stuff that I used to do at my day job. I've noticed more and more young professionals going their own route, so here are my tips for drumming up business.

Reach out to your networks. All of my paying work so far has been with companies and organizations that I worked with in California. I told them early on (before I left) that I would be branching out on my own after the move and that I'd be available for hire. A few quick emails once I got here to let them know I was open for business and I have had a pretty steady stream of work (not enough to fill up my docket, but enough to give me some structure to my day and time to build on other areas).

Get online. My work isn't tied to geographic location, so the Internet is an extremely valuable marketing tool for me. I try to stay active on Twitter and Facebook and plan on investing some more time in LinkedIn, and of course this blog is sort of a live demonstration of my abilities (that's not the reason I blog, though). I'm also working—slowly—on my professional website. But social networks are my main target online.

Volunteer or do pro bono work. I mentioned before that I've been volunteering at Dress for Success Miami, but I never mentioned what I was doing. Well, we launched their new quarterly e-newsletter last week (which I wrote, designed and coded) and next up on my list is building out their website with content and features and updating their communications materials and social media efforts. I'm doing it pro bono for now, but I've already gotten leads for new local clients through my work with the nonprofit. It's difficult to branch out locally when my portfolio includes mainly in-house work done across the country, so having local work to show is a major plus.

Hit the pavement. There is a lot to be said for good old fashioned networking, especially in a town that is as who-you-know as Miami. Basically if you live in Miami and have a free lunch hour, I'll lunch with you. We can chat about fashion, TV, work, travel...whatever you want. We don't even have to talk about work (mine or yours). I'm just meeting people and going to functions (volunteering has been great for that, too). This part is the most difficult for me so far because I'm an introvert by nature, but I'm getting more comfortable with it.

Brand yourself. Not with a branding iron, of course, but with a professional identity. Branding often includes logos, colors, fonts, taglines, etc., but it can also be with values, specialties, or a strong personality. I'm not working on a logo, for instance, but am focusing on several areas for my work (such as nonprofits and career development/professional advice). Hey, I know my strengths.

Have you ever opened your own business (small or large)? What tips do you have for getting your foot in the door?

Fall uniform [outfit]

2011-11-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

Bobeau sweater from Nordstrom Rack - 2011 - $8 on clearance (purchased with birthday money) / Ella Moss tank from Anthropologie - 2010 - Christmas gift / J & Co jeans from Renew Denim - 2010 - $40 / Franco Sarto boots from Macy's - 2010 - birthday gift / London Fog bag from Amazon - 2011 - birthday gift + $5 shipping

After a week of not taking outfit photos, it's a little odd to start again. That's why you get this crappy cell phone pic instead of the usual crappy indoor pic. This is basically my fall uniform.

Flat knee-high boots
(I might need another pair to spread out the wear on these)

Skinny or straight jeans
(blue or gray)

Drapey cardigan

(gray or tan)

Top-handle bag with longer strap

(black or brown)

Optional: scarf, fun jewelry

Seeing that I have at most two of each of the core items to the look, I'm going to have to switch it up here soon. Like, maybe switch to a straight cardi instead of a draped one.

The day I wore this (Sunday) I mulled over my upcoming Christmas List (due at Thanksgiving) as well as my October spending. I've been rather uninterested in shopping and acquiring new things lately, so the Christmas List has been tough. As for spending, I'm still going through my birthday money (in September and October combined I only spent $106 of my $150 birthday check...I bought a dress, a pair of shoes, a top, a sweater, and a ring so far). I'm thinking I'll use the rest of it to get a haircut. I need some shaping. Or should I save that for my Christmas List?

What's your fall uniform?

Never before seen footage [outfits]

2011-11-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

Hey folks! I'm back from my trip! I spent a week with my sister-in-law and her family helping out around the house after they had their new baby earlier this month. Some highlights:

Getting to spend time with my 3.5 year old nephew that he'll remember. Since before he was born, we've always lived at least 500 miles away, and it kills me that we don't get to see him grow up as closely as we'd like. Now that he's at an age where he notices and remembers things, it's even more important that K and I are in his life (we're his only aunt and uncle).
Changing my first diaper. I'm pretty impressed that I went 28 years without changing one. Luckily the baby was kind to me (didn't have to do any #2s). He's a keeper, for sure.
Bonding with my sister-in-law. Growing up with just a brother, I always wished for a sister (in addition, not instead of my bro). My best friends come pretty close, but it is definitely cool to have a sister in my sis-in-law. We've always gotten along, but because of the distance we haven't had the chance to spend quality time just the two of us until now.

I didn't take any outfit pics while I was gone (let's just say I was appropriately dressed for my week's activities...lots of jeans, tees, and flats), but there are quite a few photos taken earlier in October that I never posted, so here you go—never before seen outfits.

10.02.11
Gap tank, swapped dress as skirt, vintage belt, Emilie M bag, Rampage wedges, Nine West glasses (Yes, they're real. I've been wearing contacts since I was 12.)

10.03.11
Target top, Rockabilly jeans, Calvin Klein pumps, Jada's Jewels cuff

10.08.11
Gap Outlet tee, Black Orchid jeans, Franco Sarto boots, Old Navy belt, vintage scarf

10.10.11
BR Factory cardigan, Gap tank, J & Company jeans, Target flats

10.17.11

Max Studio wrap dress, vintage belt, Nine West Outlet boots, Premier Designs faux pearls

You can totally see the transition from summer to fall in these outfits. I've broken out my fall uniform (which you'll see tomorrow), even though it's still about 80 degrees here. It's only been a few months, but I've definitely acclimated to Miami, and I'm a little worried about how cold Southern California will be over the holidays. First world problems, I know.

Modern Mad Men [Guest post]

2011-11-03T08:30:00.000-04:00

worn October 17, 2011 to work

Hey there! I'm Jeanna. I'm so happy to be guest posting for Angeline while she's away helping her sister-in-law out with the new baby!

I blog about my style and daily outfits over at Third Floor Closet. Since I work in the finance industry, most of my work outfits tend to be on the more professional side. Perfect fit for The New Professional, right?

The Mad Men/50s-60s look is really on trend right now. This is my take on modernizing the look for today's office. It's an easy formula, really:

ladylike blouse + pencil skirt + pumps + a few modern details = retro modern office outfit

Since the neckline of this blouse is so busy and ruffly, I skipped a necklace and opted instead for a couple of stacked bracelets and a shiny pair of earrings. I further accessorized with a skinny black patent belt to add a little definition to the waist area.

One point I must stress: The absolute key to this look is a nude-colored camisole. So many of these types of tops are sheer silk or polyester which are NOT office appropriate by themselves. Trust me, a nude cami is your friend.

So that's my outfit for today! I hope you'll stop by and visit sometime or just say hello! Now let's all count down the days until Angeline returns, shall we?

Staying professional during pregnancy [Guest post]

2011-11-02T08:30:00.000-04:00

Hi New Professional readers! I'm S. of Narrowly Tailored, and I'm thrilled to be pitching in for Angeline while she's away (returning the favor she did for me while I was on maternity leave a few weeks ago). Today, I'm tackling a topic that's fresh on my mind from recent experience: building a professional wardrobe while you're pregnant.

My daughter M. was born just over a month ago, and I live in the mid-Atlantic, so my advice is slightly colored by having been barely pregnant in the winter and having gone through my third trimester during the hottest summer on record in our region (a fact I'll be sure to tell her when she gets older). I'm also a third-year law student who spent the summer working at two law firms in a major city with different dress codes, so I ended up needing clothes that fit a range of business casual to business-not-so-casual environments. In addition, like all of us, my body, my pregnancy and my closet are all beautiful and unique snowflakes, so your mileage may vary as to what works best for you. With that in mind, here are some of the things I wish I'd known about building a maternity wardrobe for the office:

First of all: you can do it! You will have days where you don't feel awesome, and where nothing fits right, and you can't imagine buying one. more. piece. of maternity clothing. But I promise, it is possible to put together a maternity wardrobe for the office that is stylish, current and makes you feel fabulous in your pregnant body.

Consider your office dress code carefully (I've written more about this here). In particular, do you really need a suit? Will your colleagues cut you a little bit of sartorial slack during your pregnancy? If you have friends at work who've recently had kids, ask them what their essential pieces were, and any stylistic pitfalls they ran into.

Take a hard look at your existing closet. What might fit for a while longer? How heartbroken will you be if some of these pieces get stretched out in the process? How comfortable are you using a bella band and/or the rubber band trick to extend the life of your pre-pregnancy pants?

Cast a wide net when it comes to sourcing maternity items.

Do you have a friend or a sister of a similar size who has recently been pregnant? Is there a clothing swap coming up among your friends or in your region? I had good luck "shopping" a size or two up early in my pregnancy at a clothing swap a friend organized.

Embrace shopping online. Many maternity lines are online only, so check your measurements regularly and be prepared to be a frequent visitor to your local post office to return things that don't work. Take advantage of free shipping whenever you can. In addition to brand-specific websites, try Zappos, Diapers.com, Figure8Maternity and Amazon.

Consider renting if you need a specific piece for a special event, like a suit for a job interview or a dress for a formal event. Websites like Mine for Nine have some great options, but think about the true cost per wear of renting a piece: it may be more economical to purchase an item new (or used) and then resell it on eBay or at a consignment shop.

Think beyond the Gap, Loft, Old Navy and Liz Lange for Target. I purchased a number of items from each of these stores during my pregnancy, and some of them were my MVPs. But for professional pieces and things I knew I was going to wear every day, I had better luck when I branched out a bit, to brands like Olian, Japanese Weekend, and Maternal America, many of which can be found used or new on eBay at huge discounts.

eBay, eBay, eBay. I got so many of my key pieces from eBay, including a pair of discontinued Loft "real waist" trousers, two pencil skirts for less than $5 each, and two pairs of Olian work trousers late in my pregnancy (and on a semi-emergency basis) for $15 a pair. There's a high-volume trade in new and used maternity items available, and it can be a great source for hard-to-find items if you're willing and able to hunt for them.

Don't do it all at once! While I tried to come up with the "one list to rule them all" early in my pregnancy of exactly what I would need, I quickly realized what a goofy idea that was. While I tried to prioritize purchases and think critically about how big of a capsule wardrobe I was acquiring, saving room in my budget and my closet to accommodate my changing body (and changing waistband preferences) as my pregnancy progressed was critical.

Be willing to experiment. Your body is doing a crazy and completely amazing thing! It will change in ways you won't expect, and in some ways you will. You'll be more excited about some of them and less excited about others. Take advantage of the freedom of an unfamiliar body to experiment with styles and proportions you wouldn't necessarily wear. You might surprise yourself with something you love.

Stay true to what you love to wear. I thought about putting together a list of "essential" items here, but I realized the answer to that question is in many ways, way too individual, and also one to which you already know the answer. Think about what you love to wear to work now, and what kinds of things make you feel comfortable, put together and like your best, most brilliant self. Seek out the maternity equivalents of these items, or refashion or adapt your existing pieces to make them work with your changing body. You are doing something difficult and incredible, and you deserve to feel both fabulous and competent while you're doing it!

If you've recently had a child, what do you wish you'd known about building a maternity wardrobe? What surprised you most about dressing your pregnant body?

Sponsor Spotlight | November

2011-11-01T15:00:00.009-04:00

Thanks to this month's sponsors!

Go Chic or Go Home is a fun community of ladies (and gents) that love clothes and shopping. Upload photos of your closet items to create online inventory, gather inspiration from other members, and find out when your favorite GCOGH retailers have special offers with the new coupon code and sale enhancements. Request an invite today and get started.

Andewyn Jewelry designer Adrienne is inspired by nature, color, and texture, and it shows in her beautiful handmade pieces. Her sterling silver and gemstone pieces are unique and personal. They're the perfect finishing piece to a great outfit. Check out her etsy shop here.

5 tips to create an outfit that helps you achieve your career goals [Guest post]

2011-11-01T08:30:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone! My name is Virginie, I am a movie producer and small business owner and my blog is Virginie's Cinema. I started getting interested in personal style when I realized it could help me achieve my career goals. Since then, I have discovered many ways our wardrobe can be a tool in our success and wanted to share with you five basic tips to make your outfit help you accomplish your dreams. Every work occasion deserves a different outfit strategy, but these tips apply to all situations and all fields. Here we go!

First, know what your goal is. You need to know specifically what you want in order to get it. Sure we all want success, but how do you define it? Do you want to get a promotion, be liked by everyone, establish your value in your company, get financiers to participate in your small business? You need a specific goal. My job is to get together the finances and organize the planning for the movies I make so my goal is always this: to convince and inspire—financiers, actors, service providers, my artistic team, etc. I have to convince and inspire them to come on my boat and row with me, although the seas will not always be clement.

Then, choose 3 words that define how you want to be perceive. A leader, an indispensable employee, an approachable and human boss, a feared business person...what do you want your clothes to say? I like to be perceived as a serious and ambitious but creative producer. That's why I'll wear something traditional for the workplace such as a pencil skirt (serious) but with a sweater instead of a blazer (creative) and am not scared to use bold colours like yellow (ambitious). Pick three words that describe the business person you want to be and translate them into your clothes.

Stimulate imagination. By captivating the imagination we captivate the heart. And as much as we were made to believe business is emotion-free, it's not, even if only subconsciously. It's like publicity: no one is forcing you to shop at this or this store, you are choosing to because their ads stimulated your imagination and touched you. In today's world, you are your own brand and you need to sell yourself. How you look is definitely part of the equation. You want to choose an outfit that points to the goal you are looking to achieve and that shows you in your best light. You want to dress as if you have already achieved your goal so to inspire this energy in the people you are dealing with (and put it out in the universe!). I like to use subtle details like textured stockings or colourful shoes to add imagination to my outfits and like to be a little more dressed up than I really need to everyday to inspire, and hence create, success.

Be memorable. You don't want an outfit that is shocking and over the top but you want something that will make sure you are remembered. We meet a lot of people everyday and you need to stand out in a way that helps you achieve your goals. In a world full of grey, I find using colours is an enticing and creative outfit strategy. The people you work with need to keep a positive souvenir of you long after you have left the room so that when they need your expertise they will think of you right away.

It's all in the details. Paying careful attention to the many details that make an outfit come together (accessory, jewelry, make up, nails, bag) says volumes about the care and attention you will give to your work, which is very important. It's a reflection of your work ethic.

I hope these tips are useful to you and I'd love to hear how they have inspired you and your work clothes! For more tips for the workplace, small business owners and freelancers check out my series You're the Boss Apple Sauce. We can all have the career of our dreams!

Thank you so much Angeline for having me over!

Virginie ♥

Shop this look!
Skirt: Vintage
Bag: Cole Haan
Shoes: ModCloth
Sweater: H&M
Pendant: Swarovski
Belt: Pretty Colourful Vintage
Stockings: Walmart

Take two [outfit]

2011-10-31T08:30:00.000-04:00

W118 by Walter Baker dress from Off 5th - 2011 - $30 on clearance / Gap blazer - 2005 - $40? / Enzo Angiolini pumps from Piperlime - 2010 - $35 on sale

Just popping in with this outfit since I wore it last week. (More guest posters to come.)

Now this is more of what I had in mind when I bought this dress. It's a little on the short side, but I could see this outfit working great at a casual networking hour or on a date. I've always extolled the leg-elongating magic powers of a knee-length pencil skirt, but this shorter length is pretty flattering, too. Dilemmas, dilemmas.

What is the most flattering skirt length on you? How do you figure?

Color Rotation Challenge [Guest post]

2011-10-28T08:30:00.000-04:00

Hi, I'm Colleen from Scrap and Run. I created a challenge about a year ago and will be starting it up again. It's called Color Rotation Challenge. I did it in October of 2010 and March-April 2011. It all started because I noticed I would wear the same colors all the time or go a few days in a row wearing one color and then move onto the next color for a few days. You could join or do something similar. You will learn a lot.

The Rules are simple but I also have an entire post about it last March. The Rules:

Rotate colors in your closet (1, 2, or 3 times)
Don't repeat the specific articles of clothing.

Goals:

Wear a wide variety of clothes in your closet
Wear a variety of colors in your closet.

I've actually participated in quite a few challenges over the year. Some are more fun than others and they all teach a little bit of something.

Ruts: It helps you stay out of ruts you can get in when getting dressed.
Speed: Focusing on a particular color decreases the amount of time it takes to pick out your clothes for the day.
Veterans: Having to rotate helps you break out some veteran items from your closet.
Accountability and Accomplishment: If you say you will do a challenge, you follow through and feel accomplished at the end.
Remixing: It helps you remix items better so that you don't wear your favorite cardigan on the day of the color or else it would be out of your rotation for the rest of the challenge.

As with every challenge, it isn't as easy as you think when you start. The troubles along the way make it more worthwhile though. I will be starting my next challenge on October 31. (I was going to pick November 1 but I'm wearing pink throughout the month of October for Breast Cancer Awareness and don't want to add another day of pink right away.) Please join if you want to give yourself a fun and exciting challenge. You can link up on my blog or look at the blogs of others who have linked up.

Now the Color Rotation Challenge isn't the only challenge that I have participated in. I notice they are all over the internet. I participated in the Summer Blackout Challenge that Already Pretty hosted where you went a week without wearing black. This was my first challenge and black was always a staple for me. This challenge was great for the middle of summer and it taught me a few things about color being good and white being a nice replacement for black in the summer. I have also participated in Kendi's 30 for 30 challenge three times. The 30 for 30 challenge taught me to remix items in different ways. I was always wearing the same shirt with the same skirt even though I had 40 shirts that would go with the skirt. The third time was the most challenging because I wouldn't let myself pick my favorite items and I chose items that I wasn't wearing regularly. It was a great experience.

Join a challenge. They are great at adding some interest in your life. They make getting dressed a little more interested.
Thanks Angeline for letting me guest post. It was fun thinking about all the past challenges.

Double dobby [outfit]

2011-10-27T08:30:00.000-04:00

Dobby camp shirt from Target - 2009 - $13? / Pleated skirt from Goodwill - 2011 - $6 / Franco Sarto boots - 2010 - gift from mom / Leaf necklace - 2010 - $22 / Braided belt from Bows & Arrows - 2010 - $7

Since my post on Monday reminded me that I own this great shirt, I thought I'd bust it out this week since I haven't touched it in a while. For some reason, my mind went immediately to this skirt, which I originally thought was more pinkish, but with brown accessories looks a lot more beige. I'm still not sure what color it is exactly, but I'm just rolling with it.

So add this to the list of ways to wear a button-down.

[No, this outfit itself does not contain a double dose of dobby dots, but this is the second dobby dot post of the week...so many dots!]

I'm taking a quick break to do some life, so starting tomorrow I'll have some guest bloggers up in here. Hope you enjoy them!

Is makeup mandatory in the office?

2011-10-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

As you've seen, the change from office to work-at-home has inspired a new level of casualness in my wardrobe. But that's not all...I've also drastically changed my makeup routine from what it was just a few months ago. Which got me to thinking...is makeup mandatory in the workplace?

It certainly felt like it for me. Even though I didn't start wearing makeup regularly until college (my mom wasn't so keen on it when I lived in her house as a teen), it's become a near-daily part of my life. In almost four years at my last job, I think I went to work without mascara once. I wore my ratty old glasses once, for half of a day after coming back from the optometrist (turns out I had the exact same Costco glasses as our web guy at the time...yippee).

Is makeup mandatory in the workplace?
No, as long as you still keep a professional appearance. Here's how I gauge it: I've never noticed when any of my coworkers or business contacts were not wearing makeup. I can definitely remember noticing makeup on women in the workplace (good or bad), but lack of makeup? Doesn't register. It's certainly possible that every one of my female coworkers wore makeup, but I wouldn't know the difference. And to be honest, it doesn't really matter to me. Now, if you send me an email with 20 million exclamation marks or mix up insure/ensure or aid/aide, that I'll remember. But coming to work without makeup? Whatever.

Why I wear makeup
To me, makeup is part of getting ready and putting my best face forward (literally). I don't think there's anything wrong with my un-made-up face, and I don't have any qualms about going about my day without makeup on, but it just adds a slight spring to my step when I have it on. And regardless of whether it actually affected my work, I felt that I performed better when I thought I looked better.

Now that I'm not an office everyday, I still find that I put on makeup almost everyday. But not nearly as much makeup and not nearly as consistently. It just seems to put me in the right mood and helps me smile a little wider when I know I have pretty gloss on. But I've always been a makeup girl. I like this stuff. I love that Ulta now organizes its bargain brands by item (lips, eyes, face) rather than by brand. I could spend hours there.

Do you think makeup is mandatory in the office? How do your in-office/out-of-office makeup routines differ?

Ladies who lunch [outfit]

2011-10-25T08:30:00.000-04:00

BR Factory t-shirt - 2011 - $5 on clearance / LOFT skirt - 2010 - $70 / Target flats - 2010 - $18 on sale / Forever 21 leaf necklace - 2010 - $5 / Rings on a chain

Sometimes you just feel like you need the day off. And sometimes, you can. This was last Thursday for me. I had just wrapped up a project Wednesday morning, had a productive meeting Wednesday afternoon that had me headed in a great direction on another project, and it had *finally* stopped raining in Miami. So I put on a cute skirt, walked myself over to the little neighborhood village, found an adorable new boutique (still have some birthday money left over), had a 3.5 hour lunch with a new friend, and grabbed a box of mini cupcakes from my new favorite cupcake place (dangerously walking distance from my apartment).

One of the best things about not being in an office anymore is being able to use my shorter skirts. I definitely made good use of my knee-length ones in the office, but during the two days a week that I had to myself, I rarely ever felt like tossing on a skirt. If you have a super-long memory, you'll recognize this skirt as the one off of the suit that was my first cheater purchase on the Great American Apparel Diet. I wore it to work twice (1, 2) before I had to deal with the reality that this is just too short to be appropriate for a business casual office. But it was so cute and had pockets, and is finally getting worn. Still not thrilled about the wrinkle-prone fabric, though.

What do you do with items that are no longer (or that you realize later on) just aren't office appropriate?

Wear and wear again | Dobby camp shirt

2011-10-24T08:30:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite things to wear for work or for casual days is a crisp button down (or button-up...they're the same thing, right?). But to be honest with you, they can get boring unless they have some cool detail or texture. And this top has both. Score.

Purchased in 2009 off of Target's clearance rack (I think it was $12 or $13), this black dobby camp shirt is a workhorse in my closet, both at work and at home. The three-quarter length sleeves are perfect for nearly every season, and the dots are just such a fun touch. And as with any other collared shirt, a sweater on top creates the perfect preppy look. I've worn it with everything from trousers and jeans to pencil and A-line skirts.

October 2010

September 2010

December 2010

November 2010

January 2011

Looking back through these photos, my tendency to wear the death out of an item for a season and forget about it is extremely apparent. Speaking of which, it's almost November...time to bust out the dobby dots again.

Some fun camp shirts from around the web:

Button Front Tops at Kohl's

What's your favorite variation on the classic button-down/up?

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 10.21.11

2011-10-21T10:40:00.001-04:00

No more latte. :(

I know, I know, my posting schedule has been rather wonky this week. But I've been having a great load of fun and productivity offline, and am working on a bunch of things that get me really excited. As I mentioned last week, I really want to make the most of my flexible schedule. This week, that meant blogging whenever I found the time instead of scheduling posts days in advance, taking Thursday "off" and having a 3.5 hour lunch with a new friend, getting completely caught up on half-marathon training, immersing myself in HTML and CSS, and cracking open some books (err...opening up my Kindle app).

While I'm writing and HTMLing this weekend, why don't you sit back and enjoy some of my favorite reads from the past two weeks.

I'm awkward enough with coworkers in the workplace, but travel? Corporette offers some spot-on tips for traveling with coworkers.
Not all feedback is created equal, and Forbes tells us how to do it right.
A man's perspective on networking as a woman from Women 2.0.
Money Smart Fashion shared an awesome Mint.com infographic on clothing spending in various cities. How does your city—and your spending—match up?
Asking for a raise is probably one of the hardest things to do professionally. Increase your chances of success by staying away from these key phrases. [via The Grindstone]
Practice makes perfect when honing your writing skills, and more tips from Classy Career Girl.
It's one thing to struggle with work-life balance in an everyday job, but how do top businesswomen do it? The Grindstone gathers advice and thoughts from 10 of the best.

What good reads have you found lately?

Weatherproof [outfit]

2011-10-20T09:52:00.000-04:00

Eclair top from Nordstrom Rack - 2011 - $13 / Banana Republic suiting pencil skirt - 2010 - $60? on sale / Nine West Outlet boots - 2009 - $50 on sale / Natural pearl necklace - 2007 - gift

For the first time since I've been in Florida, we've had nasty weather. Like, really nasty. Horizontal rain, tornado warning, flood watch nasty. As much as I'd love to hunker down at home (and as free as I actually am to do so), sometimes I know it's better to just suck it up and get on out there. I'm fortunate that my building's garage is attached, so I don't actually have to go out into the rain to get to my car (a major step up from my last apartment), but my destination did not have a parking garage, so I pulled out my non-rain rain boots.

I'm all for rain boots. I love mine. They're from Target and were a Christmas gift from my in-laws a few years back. They get worn basically whenever it's wet out, even if the rain has stopped. Back when I used to take the bus to work (the first 2.5 years of my last job), I'd wear the rain boots for my commute and bring shoes to change into. But for a quick volunteering stop, something that would be awkward to change shoes at? Not so good.

My happy medium—these faux-leather tall boots. They protect my calves when I'm wearing a skirt, keep me from feeling any wet hemlines from I'm wearing trousers, and can even handle skinny jeans tucked in. The heel is thicker than my usual stiletto pump, and the rubber soles are a major plus for wet weather. They're not made for rain, of course, so I wouldn't walk through an ankle-high puddle the way I would in my normal rain boots, but it is nice to know that I'm not putting my leather goods at risk. They weren't cheap, but they've already gotten two seasons of wear and look nearly new.

How do you weatherproof your work outfit without dressing it down?

*bonus points if you've noticed that the boxes in this pic (taken Tuesday) were finally gone yesterday (pic taken Wednesday). I also wore this outfit to do some more unpacking. Slowly, but surely. I hope to be unpacked by the time we move again.

Colors for a cause [outfit]

2011-10-19T17:57:00.000-04:00

Banana Republic sweater - 2008 - ?? but on sale / Target t-shirt - 2011 - $7 on sale / Target jeans - 2011 - $18 on sale / Calvin Klein pumps from Off Broadway - 2007 - $70 on sale / Scarf - 2010 - swapped

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

I'm wearing purple because relationships should not be abused for power. Because everybody deserves respect. Because you don't have to just sit there and take it, but you do have to take the first step and be committed to changing your life.

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors — physical, sexual, psychological, and economic coercion — used by one intimate partner against another (adult or adolescent) to gain, maintain, or regain power and control in the relationship. Batterers use of a range of tactics to frighten, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, often injure, and sometimes kill a current or former intimate partner.

1 in 3 families are affected by domestic violence. If you look at the ladies you're lunching with, chances are one of their families has been affected by it. Some people that I love dearly have been affected by it. It crosses all racial, economic, educational, and geographic boundaries.

If you are in danger, please call 911, your local hotline, or (in the U.S.) the National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233 or TTY (800) 787-3224.

Spread the word. Purple and pink go well together, don't you think?

Camera knows best [outfit]

2011-10-18T08:30:00.000-04:00

These outfit photos really need to be put in context.

I picked an outfit to wear last Thursday to volunteer at Dress for Success. I initially started out dressing business casual whenever I volunteered, until I realized I was looking really out of place so dressed up. So trouser jeans have become my go-to.

And then I saw the outfit photos and HELLO PINHEAD. Down came the hair.

Better. Off I went to volunteer, but the afternoon was cut short when the office closed early. With my latest Ulta coupon burning a hole in my pocket and a newfound passion for my eyebrows, I went shopping.

Two stores and an eyebrow pencil later, I'm in the dressing room at Nordstrom Rack when I notice there is a black pencil mark on my left boob. On a white shirt. Almost certainly from trying out eyebrow pencils on my hand. Darn darn darn.

Luckily I'm wearing a plain white tank underneath. So the shirt goes into the purse and this is how I go about the rest of my day.

Banana Republic cardigan - 2011 - swapped / Old Navy polo - old - cheap / Mossimo tank from Target - 2011 - $9 / Merona trouser jeans from Target - 2011 - $18 / Nine West pumps from Ross - 2011 - $25 / AE outlet necklace - 2011 - $4 on clearance

Do you tweak your outfit throughout the day? If you're a blogger, do you ever tweak your outfit after photos?

To tuck or not to tuck [outfit]

2011-10-17T08:30:00.000-04:00

LOFT outlet top - 2011 - $10 on sale / LOFT pencil skirt - 2009 - $13 on sale / Nine West flats - 2011 - $20 on sale / Canvas and leather belt - 2010 - swapped

Or tied up, to be more accurate. I like to wear my hair up, but it doesn't happen as often as I'd like because it looks sort of makes my face look like a boy's (the fact that even when I wear make-up it barely looks like I'm wearing make-up doesn't help).

I've been thinking a bit lately about when to tuck your shirt in and when to let it hang out. There are a lot of factors: volume of shirt, volume of skirt, waistband, ability or inability to belt, neckline, etc. I've worn this shirt tucked into a skirt before, but when I tried tucking it into this skirt, the look was not pretty, for several reasons. This skirt sits lower on my waist, giving the shirt a lot more space to billow between the waist and shoulder. This skirt's waistband is also less conducive to belting (partially due to it sitting lower on the waist). This skirt is also quickly becoming too small for me, which makes the looseness of the shirt even more obvious (I bought it without trying it on...go me). So this shirt + this skirt = untucked.

While I finally made peace between my top and skirt, these shoes still look a bit out of place. I was trying to give my nude flats a rest, but alas, I probably should have worn them for the fourth day in a row. I love them, just not with this outfit.

How do you determine whether to tuck or not tuck your shirt? Do you have any rules or do you do trial-and-error each time?

Freelance Files | Time management

2011-10-14T09:04:00.002-04:00

For anyone who thought my desk might actually look like this on a normal day, here is a more accurate picture of my "tidy" desk during the week. And yes, this is after clearing off space.

True story: I opened up this window to type this post around 5:30 p.m. last night. And right now it's 8:30 a.m. and these are the first words on the screen. Although I had some ambitious time management plans when I first started out this freelancing thing, reality has set in. I was always really adept at juggling multiple projects at work, prioritizing what had to get done, and churning out lots and lot of stuff. But fewer deadlines and unclear priorities are a new beast for me (I can take my personal projects at my own pace right? Um...do I ever want them to get done?). Some thoughts on my current time management situation:

One of the things I was looking forward to most about freelancing was a more flexible schedule. Lunch with friends, more time for hobbies, the ability to join weekday Bible studies. Not to take away from my work time, but mostly because I knew freelancing was not an 8-5 job. Sometimes it's a 12-10 job, sometimes 3-midnight. I don't want to over-plan my day, either.
Much (ok, almost all) of my work so far is for clients in California. This has been a huge blessing and it's really great to continue work relationships with people I love working with, but has got my hours a little wonky, since they're basically working 12-8. I do really like getting a head start in the morning on them, though...definitely keeps me from more late nights.
Training for a half marathon has totally thrown my schedule upside down. Exercise was never part of the plan. If you include running time, warm-up/cool-down time, and taking time to eat a nutritious breakfast time, that adds about 1.5 hours to my morning routine 4-5 times a week.

Things I'm learning about managing my time:

One to-do list. Rather than the multiple to-do lists I'm accustomed to keeping, since my life is much more fluid and flexible, I'm using just one list.
Take breaks when needed. Not just computer breaks (although those are important), but coffee breaks, reading breaks, and breaks from the race of keeping up with other blogs and social networks.
Make appointments. If I want to have lunch with a friend, I schedule it days in advance when possible. I also have standing volunteer hours at Dress for Success Miami, which is great to add structure to my day. Not only do appointments help me chunk up my work time and use it better, it also gives me something to look forward to and measure toward during the week.
Realize I don't have to plan every minute, especially when it comes to my workouts. I prefer morning workouts, but a) it's been hard to get up in the mornings lately (soreness from this new exercise thing doesn't help) and b) sometimes I get inspired when I wake up and sit down and start typing million-word blog posts like this. To keep myself on track, I make sure to put on my gym clothes in the morning and then when I do get to a stopping point, run down to the gym in my building knowing that once I get on that treadmill, it's a bigger pain to stop than it is to keep going.
Do something. Anything. It doesn't have to be for money. It doesn't have to be for a larger goal. Doing begats more doing, so instead of thinking about my website while browsing blogs, I'm trying to close the browser and start working on the website instead (writing in Word, for example...I know I'll need to open up the browser again to actually do web work).
No more caffeine after noon. Iced tea with last night's dinner was a bad move, but I now have a whole pageful of notes and ideas (things I can do right away) that I took on my iPad under the covers. I'm paying for it this morning, though, so time to rein it in. This one's a party animal, can you tell?

What are your biggest time management challenges?

Jada's Jewels Giveaway Winner

2011-10-13T17:00:00.000-04:00

And we have a winner for the Jada's Jewels giveaway!

Congratulations, Jess! You will receive an email later today to get you started on using your $50!

If you didn't win (or if you haven't signed up yet) just click on the Jada's Jewels ad in the right sidebar. New products go one sale every day!

Note: Jess's email was tied to her Blogger account, linked from the comment. If you have a Blogger account and you have hidden your email, make sure to note your email in the comment, or else I won't be able to contact you.

Faux-bi [outfit]

2011-10-13T08:30:00.000-04:00

Katerina Dress c/o Carissa Rose [review | disclosure] / Nine West peep-toes from Ross - 2009 - $25 / Natural pearl necklace - 2007 - gift

I almost titled this post "Who died?" because it looks like I'm going to a funeral. Nope. No one died here. Wore this for a little trip to South Beach to check out a jeweler's proposed designs for a commissioned Dress for Success Miami piece. It was gorgeous. I'm not a rich philanthropist type, but if I were, I'd want one. Time to kick the freelancing into high gear.

My favorite part of this outfit is the belt. The first time I wore this dress, I went with a classic front bow. This time I tried an obi-style. The ties are sewn into the side seams of the dress, but I'm seriously debating taking them off the dress and sewing them together to form an independent waist-tie (and so I can use other belts with this dress). Shouldn't be too hard, right?

Speaking of sewing I've been on a major sewing kick lately. This weekend, I made a new pillow for my office chair (based on this pin), and sewed a little tool belt for my three-and-a-half year old nephew (from this book). Next up: making a baby blanket for my brand new nephew (born on Monday!), new throw pillow covers for the couches, and finally doing this skinny pant DIY. I'm putting it off because even though it looks simple enough on screen, it's slightly terrifying to me to do such a large alteration myself.

Are you a crafter? What kind of crafts do you do?

When a friend gets laid off

2011-10-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

[Mykl Roventine]

In this economy, lay-offs are nothing new. As a child, I remember them being talked about only once, briefly. They were an adult thing. And then I got into the workforce, and the economy tanked (in that order, thank goodness). In the nearly four years I was at my previous company, I saw and survived three rounds of lay-offs. A few friends were also laid off from their jobs. As an employed person, I wasn't quite sure what to do or how to support my friends, especially since I had never been in that situation. But through the years I've learned a few ways to help a friend after they've gotten the pink slip.

Be a listening ear. Unless you've been there before and have good advice to give, just sit and listen. Even if you do have advice, it's good to listen first. Losing a job takes a major toll not only on a person's income, but on their self-esteem and overall security. I don't know about you, but those are things that I'm not equipped to address.
Offer to connect them to your networks. If you know the person to be reliable and you happen to know others in their field (even if they're not hiring), introduce them. It will help keep the recently laid-off friend in the circle of their industry and perhaps even lead to something more. One of my favorite people to refer folks to is my dad...he's super connected and almost always has good advice about positions or occupations that match the individual's skills, however high or low they may be.
Be sensitive about their finances. Don't leave them out, just get creative. Help your friend's savings last longer by inviting them over for a potluck instead of eating out. Or watch your latest Netflix with homemade popcorn—don't forget the chocolate chips and hot sauce for customizing to your taste (I don't recommend them together). It's okay to pick up the tab every once in a while when you do still go out, but don't make it a habit or it will start to feel like charity.
Maintain friendships with laid-off coworkers if you were close before. Being employed while a coworker is laid off is an awkward situation. There is no way to sugarcoat that. If you weren't friends before, you don't have to start now, but if your lunch buddy got axed, don't give them the cold shoulder, too. Just steer clear of employer-bashing or too much work talk, and definitely don't have them meet you at work.
Be interested in their job search. Lay-offs are like the giant elephant in the room (or is it the pink elephant? Or the pink gorilla? Cliche schmiche): No one wants to talk about them, but is avoiding the topic doing your friend any good? Don't speak up if you're just reminding them about their situation. But if you know your friend is actively searching, ask them how it's going and encourage them to talk about it. Take the taboo away.

Have you ever been laid off or survived lay-offs at your company? What tips do you have for helping a friend or coworker through the experience?

Keep it simple, sillyhead [outfit]

2011-10-11T08:30:00.000-04:00

W118 by Walter Baker dress - 2011 - $30 on clearance at Off Fifth Saks Fifth Avenue / Gap sandals - 2010 - $20 / NYC Color nail polish in West Village

It's been a few weeks, but I finally busted out the dress I bought myself for my birthday. Since K's present was so early in the month, I spent my birthday relaxing and doing an itty bit of shopping. I got this dress and new peep-toes from Ross—in total less than $60 of shopping for the day. Now that's what I call a treat.

I fell in love with this dress the instant I saw it, and that is why I only shop clearance racks at stores like Off Fifth (only sales racks everywhere else)...I hate falling in love with something only to find it's out of my budget for that type of item. $30 might be a little pricy for some places—I wouldn't pay that much for a dress at Target, for example—but for something that retailed at $225, $30 is a great deal. Some quick Google-ing after the fact revealed that W118 by Walter Baker dresses were on HauteLook a few months back for around $30-$50 (it was over by the time I found it so I'm not sure if this specific dress was available), so it's not too uncommon to find a deal like this, but I wouldn't have ordered it online anyway because of shipping and sizing.

Like always, the first outing is simple. I've already got my next wear planned out: light gray cami, black blazer, and nude pumps. Or a white button down underneath. Or maybe even over jeans. We'll see.

How would you style this dress?

Don't forget—today is the last day to enter the Jada's Jewels giveaway! Click here for details.

Office Supply of the Month | Whiteboards

2011-10-10T08:30:00.000-04:00

As a schoolchild, I was what you'd call a teacher's pet. I volunteered for everything. Sharpen the pencils? Sure! Pass out worksheets? Yes! But my favorite task of all? Erasing the chalkboards. Something about wiping the slate clean in preparation of a new subject or new day was sort of refreshing. The downside? Chalk dust.

The sea change from chalkboard to whiteboard began sometime during my junior high years. By high school, about half of the classrooms had replaced their chalkboards with whiteboards. They were even better. Loads of colors, easier to wipe. I used to a large, colorful whiteboard in my cubicle (Tasks were color-coded by project and person responsible. Deadlines in red, of course), and I'm still trying to figure out how to work a whiteboard into my current setup (likely in the entryway, since the office space is running low on wall space).

History
Whiteboards were invented sometime in the 1950s or early '60s. Their invention is somewhat unclear. Some think that they were invented by Martin Helt, a photographer who was looking for a wall-mounted option to jot down notes next to the telephone. He found that a sharpie ink on film negatives could easily be wiped off with water, and ran with that idea.

Regardless of their origin, whiteboards were first commercially produced in the 60s, and were initially made of porcelain mounted on steel. Film laminate whiteboards followed soonafter. Whiteboards became popular in the 1980s, led by businesses and then classrooms, once studies began warning about chalkdust allergies and asthma. By the mid-90s, they were the classroom writing board of choice, and the rest is history.

You can use dry erase markers on glass, mirrors, laminated paper, sealed ceramics, metal, or specially treated wood for the same effect.

Uses
Write on them
Draw on them
Distract children by letting them draw on it
Projector screen
Permanent calendar (tape down the grid with thin electrical tape and you won't have to worry about redrawing lines every month...Sharpies wipe off when you draw over them)
Making a cool video
Ok, there are not that many uses for whiteboards, but they can be pretty fun

Fun with whiteboards

Are you a whiteboard user? Do you prefer classic whiteboard, clear glass or mirror, or some other kind of surface?

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 10.07.11

2011-10-07T09:27:00.001-04:00

A scene from the desk. The letter tray is a new addition...my best friends got me a gift certificate to The Container Store (among other really cool goodies) so I went shopping yesterday! So crisp and clean looking to corral magazine tear-outs and hair-ties.

I hope you all had a great week. I've got a weekend of work ahead of me, but am looking forward to the fall, which apparently is when Miami really comes to life. Festivals, markets, art fairs, book fairs...I cannot wait to see, do, and eat all that Miami has to offer.

A few observations about my new city:

Everyone is really affectionate here. No one warned us about this, but that's probably because we didn't know anyone here before we got here. The most common greeting is a cheek kiss, which I've deciphered to be more like a cheek touch with a kissing sound. I tend to be sort of an affectionate person, so this suits me just fine (K is warming up to it, too).

The diversity here is mind-blowing! I thought California was a melting pot, but Miami is on another level. At any one table in a restaurant you can hear three different languages spoken, and almost everyone is at least bilingual (most commonly Spanish, but really everything...I've even used my Chinese here). Just last week we had dinner with K's cousin, who is of the same Midwestern stock as K's mom (but speaks fluent Portuguese and some Spanish), his wife (of German and Italian heritage from Brazil) and her son, P & A (A is from Poland), and new friends V (of Brazilian and Italian heritage from Brazil) and L (of Lebanese heritage from Brazil). And we had homemade spaetzel. I'd never heard Portuguese spoken until I moved here, and now it's easily distinguishable to my ear. It is a beautiful language.

Miami is a major "who you know" kind of town, more than any other city I've ever been in. Everyone I've met tells me it's hard to make it as a freelancer here because it's all based on connections. And then they give me their business card and cell phone number and tell me to call them if I ever need anything.

I haven't had as much time to read as I'd like to, but since I didn't give y'all any links last Friday, here are some goodies from the past two weeks!

It's finally cooling down enough to pull out the blazers...check out how Katy's boyfriend blazer makes the rounds.
I'm not usually into recipes on blogs, but when I saw this mac & cheese recipe on Classic Noise right before a Target trip, I grabbed the ingredient and made it that night. I can't wait the eat the leftovers for lunch today.
For those Words With Friends fiends, check out this rundown of 17 vowel-free words that work.
This article sort of breaks my heart...Is an eating disorder part of the high-powered career woman package? It doesn't have to be. [The Grindstone]
In a super-timely and relevant-to-me post, the Daily Muse offers up some ways to network in a new city.
K and I often talk about our future home, and one of the things we want to build is a wood-fired oven in the backyard. After reading Serious Eats' post on barrel ovens, I might have a new direction.
As a writer, one of the most important things I can do for myself professionally is read a lot. It doesn't always happen, but these tips on how to read more from Zen Habits are a great place to start.
I've gotten better over the years at accepting compliments (a simple "thank you" usually suffices), but these tips from Elissa in her guest post on Beautifully Invisible are a great reminder that it's okay for other people to notice and acknowledge you.
Classy Career Girl share the top ten tips to transform your resume. I couldn't agree more.
For those that asked about my hair in this post, here is the tutorial from my new fave site, The Beauty Department (also in the under-photo credits in the post). And yes, I am wearing an elastic headband, but all of mine are black so you can't tell.

What were your favorite reads this week?

Edited to add: Speaking of modesty above, I totally forgot I wanted to share some more stuff with you all. File these under shameless plugs:

I wrote about being financially ready to freelance on The Daily Muse this week.
Voting has started for round 4 of the Lucky Lifestyle Contributor contest. The latest challenge: friendship and style. I love how different my best friends and I are...see just how different, and if you like my post, please vote [Lucky log-in required].

Reader Question: Mixing beach and business

2011-10-06T08:30:00.000-04:00

I received a great question from a reader in the comments recently and it really got me thinking. You've probably seen Lorena's blog, which includes her daily work outfits and glimpses from around her city (check out the big houses in her neighborhood...gorgeous!). But she has a dilemma.

I have a question I thought you might be able to help with.I have a huge convention coming up and after it ends my boss chose to invite a few of the participants—all men—to a fun weekend.The weekend will consist either flying to an island or taking a boat to the island and spending the night.The thing is, it is a work-business related trip that I am also invited to. BUT the thought of going and having to wear a bathing suit in front of these men is totally intimidating. I want to go but I want to keep it professional.Any thoughts?

I haven't been in the exact situation Lorena describes, but I have worn my swimsuit (a bikini, no less) in front of male coworkers before. The first time, a female superior was also present and wearing a bikini. The second time, our spouses were with us and we were on different sides of a super-crowded hotel pool (for what it's worth, it was the same male colleague as before). Super-buttoned-up folks will also be horrified to learn that the bikini revealed my tattoo, which is not visible when I'm fully clothed. ::gasp:: Kosher? Maybe not, but it happened.

Back to Lorena. Some questions to think about: What will you be doing on the island? Will there be any activities that require getting wet? Will your male colleagues be in their swimsuits? Is the outing structured and scheduled or will you be free to do whatever you'd like?

The easy answer would be: if you don't feel comfortable in a bathing suit, don't wear one. But if water activities are on the schedule and expected of you, you should be prepared to participate. Conveniently forgetting your beach wear could come off as being unprepared, which is not an impression you want to impart on your colleagues. If you know you may get wet but still don't want to wear a swimsuit, keep your cover-up on. That begs the question: what kind of cover-up is appropriate?

If you can avoid being in the water, a sundress and sandals can keep you covered up and comfy relaxing on the sand or even throwing a frisbee. If you need more range of movement, perhaps for a hike or sporty activity, try capris or bermuda shorts and an embellished tank or tee (perhaps something borrowed from your business wear in a casual fabric).

Day Dresses by Lands' End Canvas
Sandals by Report

Shorts by Tommy Hilfiger
Sleeveless Tops by New York & Co.

If water activities will be part of the mix, try a tankini with a top that looks almost like a regular tank or halter. Throw on some bermuda boardshorts for a look that's modest but water-friendly. Bonus—you can wear it to dine or shop without it looking like you obviously threw on shorts over a one-piece swimsuit. I'd recommend against wearing cotton into the water, because it's sort of awkward wearing clothes not meant for water into the water and afterward you'll be damp for hours. Wearing something that's meant for water, like boardshorts, shows that you're not only prepared for the situation but are game for whatever they come up with.

Two-Piece Swimwear by Volcom
Sandals by Madewell

I think the key to make casual beach wear a little more appropriate in a potential business sense is accessories. Although I wouldn't normally wear jewelry with a bathing suit, I might put on some simple (and cheap) jewelry—something that you don't mind getting wet or putting away in your bag and leaving while you're in the water. If jewelry is not your thing, a gauzy scarf or hat will do the trick as well.

Sunglasses by Fossil
Scarves & Wraps by Madewell

Ashley of Ashley Getting Dressed asked a similar question last year...check out the comments on her post for their take on swimsuits and coworkers.

What do you think? Do you have any advice for Lorena?

Things my mom taught me about money

2011-10-05T08:30:00.000-04:00

Moneyball. My piggy bank, of course.

In most social situations, financial talk, especially of the personal variety, is strictly verboten. But on a blog that hinges on working (earning) and wearing (spending), I'd be remiss if I didn't talk about financial stability and responsibility. It's taken me a long time to work out how to address this sensitive topic, and as I do in many a situation, I've turned to my mother.

My mother is an accountant. She's worked with money nearly daily for decades. And she's given me a lot of advice. Some of it I've taken to heart, some of it I haven't. She lives what she preaches, and she and my dad raised my brother and I in a household where we always had plenty of food on the table and clothes on our backs, but we were told "no" regularly, not to take away the joy in life but to take the importance off of material goods. Like most of what my mother taught me, I didn't appreciate it then, but I certainly appreciate it now.

It is worth saying that this advice may not be right for you and your situation, and this post is not intended to pass judgment on anyone's financial decisions or situations. My hope is that this post opens up a discussion and that readers will share the lessons they've learned in the comments so that we can all benefit from the knowledge.

Here are some of the most valuable financial lessons I've learned from my mom.

The only things worth going into debt for are a house and an education. In my opinion, there are definitely some exceptions: a car if you don't have one that works, food for your family, health insurance and care, etc. I'm sure my mom would agree in those situations. Her point was that very few things are necessary to live a good life, and if you can't afford a newer car or nicer clothes, it's better to make do with what you have than go into debt for short-term satisfaction. Debt is not only difficult to get out of, but often has lasting consequences.

Along those same lines, interest is a waste of money. Unless you have no other way around it, why pay up to 20% or more on top of the value of what you're buying? For a bargain hunter like my mom, letting a charge sit on her credit card was undoing all the effort she'd put into finding a good deal.

Don't pay full price for clothes, shoes or accessories. Even as a child, we got new clothes only if they were on sale. I often wore hand-me-downs from my older cousins. It wasn't because we couldn't afford full-priced clothes, but because my mom didn't think it was worth it. Most things go on sale eventually if you're patient, and if they don't, you'll probably forget about them soon enough. I have definitely found this to be true.

Half of your paycheck should go into savings. Some context on this: my mom gave me this advice during my allowance-earning teenage days, before rent and before independence. In theory this would be great, but in practice it is nearly impossible to do if you have a regular job, pay rent or a mortgage, and still want to eat. Experts generally recommend that 10%-20% of your income go straight to your savings account, but you should figure out what works for you based on your income and expenses (for K and I, it varies by month but we aim for at least 15%).

Instead of raising your monthly debt payment to pay down debt faster, pay the minimum and put what extra you would have contributed into a savings account with an interest rate higher than that of your loan. My mom's reasoning was that a high-interest savings account (usually found online) will help your money go further, and when that savings account balance equals or exceeds your loan pay-off balance, then pay off the rest of it at once. I could never bring myself to pay just the minimum on my loans, but I did get a high-interest savings account. Based on my mom's advice and armed with a full-time job, I repaid over $20,000 in student loans in about three years.

Credit cards are not evil. They've gotten a bad rap over the years, but really, a piece of plastic is harmless. It's the abuse of the privileges that come with the plastic that can get you into trouble. My parents did not help their children sign up for a credit card, but encouraged us to make a habit of smart spending by keeping only a debit card first. I had a debit card only for five years before I finally signed up for a student credit card (as a 22-year-old grad student), and I use it basically the same way: spend money I have, pay off balance every month. I guess I could have lived without a credit card if I wanted to, but I was concerned about building credit and being able to get a home loan in the future. I actually got rejected for my first credit card application because I had no credit history.

Give freely and regularly. For all my parents' emphasis on saving, they are extremely generous. They give regularly to their church and other charities, have helped support their elderly parents for decades, and often help out friends and family in need without any expectation of repayment. To them, the ability to help others is one of the rewards of their frugal lifestyle. Personally, this is one of the most important parts of my own financial philosophy and gives me good perspective and incentive to stay financially healthy.

What is the best financial advice that you've been given (or that you've learned)? I'm always looking for more knowledge in this area.

A month of dressing up and how NOT to thrift [outfit]

2011-10-04T15:16:00.000-04:00

Mossimo tank from Target - 2010 - $7 on sale (available) / Pleated skirt from Goodwill Miami - 2011 - $6 (similar) / Gray scarf - 2010 - swap (similar) / Mossimo flats from Target - 2010 - $18 on sale (similar) / Premier Designs faux pearl drop earrings - 2010 - $20? (similar) / J. Crew belt - 2011 - $10 on sale (similar) / Hair tutorial from The Beauty Department

[Worn: 09.30.11 | To: Write, write, and write. Changed into jeans and a sweater for dinner w/ family]

Is it really October already? Dressy September just flew by. A few thoughts on the experience:

Getting dressed dressed in the morning does wonders for my motivation and work. Being dressed up even affects how professional I am on the phone (but maybe that's just me).
Walking around Target in heels isn't so bad. Walking around Target, Michael's (x2) and Pearl Art (x2) in one afternoon in heels can get pretty bad, though.
Miami may be hot, but on my regular weekday jaunt from home to volunteering to grocery store back home, I'm only in the sun without air conditioning for a maximum of 5 minutes. Even Publix has a parking garage!
If I didn't dress up regularly, about 70% of my closet would be ignored. I didn't repeat that many items this month, but still barely dented the surface of my wardrobe. I've done 3 major closet purges already this year, but it might be time to do some more editing.

If you're curious, the entire album of all 30 outfits is on my Facebook page.

And now on to how NOT to thrift. I was so excited when I passed by a Goodwill Superstore on one of my first days in Miami (before I knew that every Goodwill in Miami is a superstore, whatever that means). I stopped by to see what I could grab for cheap while I was living out of my suitcase and waiting for the rest of my stuff to get here. This skirt immediately caught my eye, and for $6, I figured I could test-drive the pleated skirt trend. I also picked up a new belt, some dress shirts for K (we hadn't packed any work clothes for him because we thought our stuff would be here by the time he started his job), and a book.

Fast-forward to later that afternoon, after getting caught in a thunderstorm and sloshing through a flooded parking lot in my leather sandals. I dry off and decide to test drive my new skirt. I go to put it on and it buttons, just barely, at my ribcage (the narrowest part of my torso). Whew, that was a close one. I go to zip it up, and...umm...where in the world is the zipper? It hasn't been ripped out. It looks like it was never even put in. All the seams are smooth and finished, there is just a giant open slit where a zipper would normally be.

Fast-forward a month and a half to late September. September 29 to be exact. Half of Miami is closed for Rosh Hashanah and I'm waiting for a conference call I have scheduled for the afternoon with a client in California. I grab the skirt, an invisible zipper I picked up at Joann and my sewing box and get to work. It takes less than an hour to hand sew the zipper into the inside lining. I left the outside gap intact because it was on the inside of a pleat and would have been more awkward with the zipper than without. Still, the skirt barely buttons, but I'm only on week 2 of half-marathon training...I have high hopes (and hopefully high-enough motivation and energy) that it will fit better by January.

My suspicion is that someone made the skirt as a sewing project, and when they realized they forgot the zipper, they sent it off to Goodwill (it also has no tags or markings on it, or any indication that there ever were any). But for $8 ($6 plus a $2 zipper), it's not bad. Here's hoping it will fit eventually, or Goodwill may just have a repeat resident. At least the next owner will have a zipper.

Have you ever come home with a thrifted item to find out something's missing? Do you fix it yourself, return it, or do something else with it?

Jada's Jewels [giveaway]

2011-10-04T08:30:00.000-04:00

My personal style is always evolving, and lately I've been on a jewelry kick. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings...they add pizazz and personality to even the most basic outfits, and can create a variety of different combinations and looks. Before this blog I was strictly a studs and delicate pendant type of gal, and now? Chunky cuffs, shiny dangles, and long strand necklaces catch my eye the most.

Enter Jada's Jewels. In the sea of flash sales sites that seem to multiply by the day, Jada's Jewels is a refreshing departure. They reached out to me recently and I was intrigued by their story and their uniqueness. The items aren't branded because Jada works directly with the manufacturer, drawing upon her family's decades-long experience selling jewelry. The result? Carefully curated collections (usually 3-6 pieces per sale, one sale per day, open for about a week), rock bottom prices (averaging about $15), and free shipping (I love free shipping).

Jada sent two pieces from recent sales for me to try out, and you've seen them already in some of my recent outfit pics. The metal has a nice weight and the pieces are very sturdy and good quality for the price ($16 for the cuff and $16.99 for the necklace from Jada's Jewels). They're already some of my favorites.

Smoky Rhinestone Cuff and Eclectic Metals Necklace

~~Jada's Jewels is giving away $50 in free jewelry to one lucky New Professional reader!~~ Giveaway has ended.

With an average price of $15, $50 goes a long way at Jada's Jewels. It's easy to enter:

Join Jada's Jewels and get notified of daily sales. Follow this link to get started.
Leave a comment with a valid email below so I can contact you if you win!

Giveaway closes Tuesday, October 11, and winner will be announced on October 14. Open to U.S. residents only.

Happy shopping!

Disclosure: Jada's Jewels sent me two items free of charge for review, but the content of the reviews is all mine. Jada's Jewels is a sponsor of The New Professional and has a paid sidebar ad, but no agreement was made to guarantee positive coverage.

Long and lean [outfit]

2011-10-03T08:30:00.000-04:00

Wool sweater vest - 2011 - hand-me-down from mom (similar) / Gap Favorite V-neck T - 2011 - $7 on sale (available) / Black Orchid gray jeans from Renew Denim - 2010 - $25 on sale (similar) / Gap sandals - 2010 - $20 (similar) / Old Navy belt - old - cheap and on sale (similar) / Cuff c/o Jada's Jewels (referral link) / Forever 21 leaf necklace - 2010 - $5 (similar) / random rings on a ball chain

[Worn: 09.29.11 | To: Post office, writing at Starbucks, lunch, car dealership, impromptu date night w/ K]

If you were visiting Miami from nearly anywhere else in the U.S., you'd think it was still summer here. But it is fall and the change from summer is evident the second you step outside your air conditioned building and the air is not chokingly hot and humid.

Earlier this year, on one of my trips home to Southern California, my mom brought out some things from her closet that she had purchased on deep clearance but hadn't really figured out how to work into her wardrobe yet. And that's how this wool sweater vest became mine. I love how it gives a whole new look to a basic jeans and tee, something like a cross between bohemian and grandma chic. I can't wait to work it into some fall and winter outfits. I didn't realize it until now, but just saw that I actually wishlisted a knit vest last October. Maybe my mom is reading (hi, Mom! I could use new shoes for my birthday, hint hint).

I'm also in a bit of a hair rut. It's at that awkward stage where my layers are being pushed around by my shoulders and getting all wonky as they air dry. I'm trying to be patient because I'd like to grow my hair out, but it's hard (more evidence on my Facebook page). It's been a while since I grew my hair out as long as I'd like...it got a bit longer last fall but I got impatient and chopped it all off. This year I'm not giving up.

What is your favorite hand-me-down item? Who is your main source for hand-me-downs?

Sponsor Spotlight | October

2011-10-01T08:30:00.000-04:00

Thank you to October's sponsors!

Go Chic or Go Home is a community of fashion lovers who want to make the most out of their closets. Upload photos of your wardrobe to mix and match (think Cher's covetable computer program in Clueless) and get inspiration from what other members are doing with their closets! That's just two of the neat features over at GCOGH...request an invite to see the rest.

Jada's Jewels works directly with manufacturers to bring fashion jewelry to your email inbox. Each day, new items come up for sale at really low prices (like, actual bargains, people), and shipping is always free. It's like shopping jewelry sales at the mall from the comfort of your home, curated by Jada herself. Stay tuned this week for more about Jada's Jewels (and a giveaway).

Home office: Revealed!

2011-09-30T08:30:00.000-04:00

It took a few weeks of waiting for our local Ikea to get the Expedit back in stock, but they finally got some more in and my home office plans were saved. You remember my mood board and how my office looked earlier this month?

Well, here's the finished product.

Not to shabby, eh? I love the new set-up, although I'll admit the desktop is rarely as clean as in the photos above (which I took in the excitement of finally getting things put away, before I sat down to actually work). Even though almost everything in this office is old, I love how it came together for a (mostly) clean and inspiring feel.

One of my favorite new additions to this space is my super-chic wall calendar, which I purchased from Sweet Musings Paperie on etsy. I loved it when I ordered it, but when I got in the mail, I LOVED it. I love looking up at Michelle's illustrations throughout my workday for a little pick me up, and there are 15 more months to go. Michelle is offering the New Professional readers 15% off on anything in her shop through October 31. Just enter NEWPROF in the coupon code box during checkout on Paypal and it will be applied to your order.

So...what do you think? Could you work in a space like this?

[Edited to add: Those boxes still between the desk and bookshelf are going to K's office...they are chock full of heavy books so he's taking them one backpack-ful at a time. Once those are gone, that space will be nice and open. Forgot they were still in the photo!]

Pin-up [outfit]

2011-09-29T08:30:00.000-04:00

Olivia top c/o Carissa Rose (available) / Merona trouser jeans from Target - 2011 - $18 on sale (similar) / Nine West peep-toes from Ross - 2011 - $25 (similar) / Random chain necklaces

[Worn: 09.27.11 | To: Volunteer, errands, exploring]

I'm a firm believer that you shouldn't be comparing your body to the shape of clothes, but that you should make clothes fit your body, whatever shape you may be. Case in point—this shirt, which was sent to me for review by Carissa Rose (along with the dress I reviewed earlier this month). This is the Olivia in 4RE, and they mentioned that it might be a bit large in the bust, but nothing a tailor couldn't easily fix. Before I went the alterations route, however, I wanted to try the shirt as is.

Pros

Nice print, rich colors
Fabric feels nice...thin but not cheap (perfect for the Florida fall--still hot, just not as humid)
Hook and eye closure really prevents any gaping
V-neck that doesn't go down too low
Flattering diagonal seam under bust

Cons

Sleeves are rather puffy, all the way down do the wrist cuff. I wish the sleeves had slimmed down toward the wrist instead. You can really see the sleeve shape in the product photo on the website.
Their smallest sized shirt was baggy all around on me. The fanning out of the shirt under the bust was especially disproportionate on my body (although I think their semi-fitted or tailored silhouettes would have worked better for me; this shirt is urban fit).

I thought it was weird that this shirt, which sounded like it should have been smaller than the dress (size 6WE), actually fit much looser. When I look at their sizing chart, the two sizes I was sent have the same bust measurement, just different waist measurements. I continued poking around their site, trying to find more about this, and I found what I was looking for in the "size & fit" section of the Katerina dress.

"Black Caviar runs small, please order one size up"

So the 6WE dress actually ran closer to a 4WE, smaller than this shirt. Good to know my mind isn't just playing tricks on me. Several retailers do provide information on how sizes fit and whether they're true to size, run large, or run small (In addition to Carissa Rose, I know Piperlime, Zappos, and Shabby Apple also have this info).

Back to the fit of the shirt. Like I mentioned before, I like to make clothes fit my body instead of lamenting how my body isn't ideal (much easier when a garment is too large rather than too small). A quick tuck and pin of the placket right at the under-bust seam and a roll of the shirt sleeves gave the shirt a more elegant silhouette, almost reminiscent of Carolina Herrera's ubiquitous dress blouses. I don't know that CH would wear jeans with this, but if she did, I imagine she'd wear a trouser style, too.

2 befores and 1 after. Doesn't look so bad in pic 2, but I'm not going to walk around all day with my arms spread out.

I fanned out the collar and bottom of the shirt to emphasize the cinch at the waist, and while it looked nice from the front, it did create a faux-preggo look from the side. I think I will try alterations next.

Don't forget, you can get 20% off your purchase at Carissa Rose through October 13 with the code THENEWPROFESSIONAL20. I highly recommend the Katerina dress, and I really like the look of the Justina Stripe Shirt (which has a tailored fit) and Lola Pencil Dress (so perfectly retro).

How have you made an item of clothing fit you in a pinch?

Disclosure: Carissa Rose sent me two items free of charge for review, but the content of the reviews is all mine. No compensation was provided, and no agreement was made to guarantee a post or positive coverage. Clicking on Carissa Rose links will not benefit me in any way.

The myth of the rough draft

2011-09-28T08:30:00.000-04:00

When I was in school, I took the term "rough draft" very literally. My drafts were just that...rough. My computer caught most of my typos, but my concepts and arguments were rudimentary, and I did little if any wordcrafting. The final draft? That's where all my effort went.

Then I got a job. I prided myself on being fast, getting drafts out in record time, knowing that my supervisor would change anything he or she didn't like. And the drafts always came back with corrections. Lots of corrections. I hate being corrected, so I began spending more and more time on my drafts. I still wrote fast, but instead of sending it out right away, I reviewed my own draft over and over again, massaging a phrase here or there, selecting words carefully. Soon, the revisions lessened, and I learned a valuable lesson about rough drafts. They don't exist outside of the classroom.

Because in the work world, your drafts should never be rough. I'm going to be blunt—when I see work, no matter what stage it's in, with typos, mistakes, or missing information, I question the worker's ability to do their job. If you don't care enough to fix typos on a draft, then why should I care enough to fix your typos? On the flip side, I expect others to react to my typos and mistakes the same way, and therefore do everything in my power to make sure my draft is as polished as possible.

So what should a draft be?

A draft should not be incomplete. If you're showing your part of a joint project, sure you can leave space where the other person's work will go, but a draft that includes holes to plug more of your work in doesn't read as a draft at all. It reads as incomplete work.
A draft should never have typos, incomplete sentences, or bad grammar and sentence structure. Heck, nothing you show anyone else should, especially not in the age of spellcheck.
A draft should be a finished product. If the reviewer didn't have any comments, is it ready to go as is? If you answered no, then your draft is not ready to be reviewed.

Early in your career, you shouldn't be afraid to ask for direction if you're trying out a new type of project for the first time. Even then, though, your work (and your notes) should be worked through and polished as much as possible since someone else is going to see it.

Drafts are an essential part of the work process, but presenting good work from the get-go makes things go much smoother.

How do you make the draft and review process go smoother?

Something like home [outfit]

2011-09-27T08:30:00.000-04:00

Ann Taylor top - 2010 - $20 on sale (similar) / BR Factory Store pants - 2009 - $12 on clearance (similar) / Nina pumps from Ross - 2009 - $16 on sale (similar) / Belt taken from a suit (similar) / Necklace c/o Jada's Jewels [referral link]

[Worn: 09.24.11 | To: Work a fundraising event. Change of outfit afterward to meet K's coworkers and have a birthday dinner w/ family]

This is not what I'd normally wear on a Saturday, but most Saturdays don't involve lunch at the Fontainebleau Hotel with a Hollywood legend. Dress for Success Miami hosted a fundraising luncheon featuring acclaimed actress and filmmaker Dyan Cannon, and I jumped at the chance to help out. But what does one wear to a historic fancy schmancy hotel to be in the presence of Miami movers and shakers while still being appropriate for working (moving things around, lifting boxes, event set-up, etc.)?

I came to two conclusions: pants and low heels. I have two pairs of dress pants that work with low heels (in addition to one pair of low-heel jeans, five high-heel pants and three flats pants...you know you make the distinction, too), and between these and the brown ones, black won out. Unfortunately, my pants aren't fitting so well these days, so I needed a structured top to keep from having to adjust my waistband all day. Toss on a belt and some jewels, pull back the hair, and I was ready to go. And I couldn't have been more comfortable at the event, where I indeed ended up walking up and down stairs all day and had to bend over and lift several things.

After the event I changed into this outfit (swap the heels for sandals) to meet up with K and his coworkers at a pub after their department retreat. Got a crapload of restaurant recommendations and a new shopping buddy! And then it was onto Miami's Best Pizza for a birthday dinner with our cousins out here (hint: the Moroccan pizza is bomb). I was completely wiped by the end of the day, but there is something really comforting about having a day full of activities with new friends...something almost like home.

What do you take into account the most when planning a functional and fashionable outfit?

Fashion don'ts that I do

2011-09-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

From time to time, I'll see something, either on a blog or on Facebook, asking people about some of their fashion pet peeves. Uggs always make the list, as do leggings as pants, and I agree with those (though they do look comfy). Others, though, I have to admit, I'm guilty of. Here are a few common don'ts that I do.

Embellished back pockets
I've been hiding something from you. My beloved skinnies have embellished back pockets. You've never seen them since I don't take butt pictures (you're welcome), but they're there. And they're sort of ugly. I wouldn't mind if they were cool looking, but these aren't...it says "J" on the left cheek and "Co" on the right. I spent well over a year looking for skinny jeans that flattered my body at a decent price point, and when I finally found these, I bought them despite the back pockets.

I've tried melting the adhesive with a blow dryer, which leaves a dark dot where the embellishment used to be. I've painted them over with black nail polish, which lasts longer than Sharpie. I'm not planning on buying a second pair of skinny jeans, so if you have any suggestions on how to get the studs off the back, please let me know.

Volume + volume = shapeless
Sometimes I just want to be comfortable. To not have to worry about whether I'll have a muffin-top after lunch, to not worry about adjusting my outfit when I stand up or sit down. Flowy clothes are the best for this, and I love pairing some trouser or wide-leg pants with a long shapeless top, usually with a skinny belt or something to cinch in just a little bit at the natural waist. Sure, I generally try to find some balance with my outfits, but sometimes you just have to do what's comfortable.

Black + brown
OK, so this one isn't really a don't anymore. But if you're still not convinced (like my husband isn't...he's just recently gotten to gray + brown), here's some evidence that it works.

How about you? What fashion don'ts do you do?

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 09.23.11

2011-09-23T10:10:00.002-04:00

Birthday cards! I love snail mail.

Happy Friday, folks! This weekend is gearing up to be chock full of good stuff, so this post will be short and sweet. Some of my favorite reads this week:

The Grindstone discusses how fathers affect their daughters approach to career. I didn't follow in my dad's career, but we were in the same industry for a bit (city government), and I did feel confident and comfortable there because my dad always made it seem so accessible.

How about this office pod? I think I'd get lonely. [via The Office Stylist]

The NFL expands their fan gear options for women, but really? Would you wear a rhinestone studded fan tee to happy hour or the office? I'd rather have a (non-pink) jersey any day. [via USA Today]

It's one thing to have your boss micromanage you, but what about when they just won't give you anything? Corporette give some great tips on how to encourage a boss to delegate.

The next Everybody, Everwear theme is DIY, and I'm loving the tutorials bloggers have shared so far. My favorite has to be Cotton & Curls' skinny pants DIY...I have the perfect pair of chinos that need to be refreshed and can't wait to try this.

I love my home office, but there are certainly days where I consider schlepping to the nearest coffee shop for better food and drink. But what are the etiquette rules for working in a public place? Mashable asks baristas and their customers and gets the answers for us.

Katy from Modly Chic shows how knowing your measurements can help you find more flattering clothes.

The Grindstone asks: Is giving up your career for your spouse ever a good idea? There's no one right answer to this, but as you might guess, it's a bit of a personal topic for me. For the record, I've given up a job, but not my career.

If you ever need a good time waster (and we all do from time to time) check out Mashable's list of 10 entertaining Tumblr blogs about your parents.

Would you ever outsource your job search? [via Stepcase Lifehack]

Unfortunately, my office chair is a little more complicated in construction and shape than this one, but I love this dressed up office chair featured on Apartment Therapy.

What good reads did you find online (or offline) this week?

If I could wear this everyday, I would

2011-09-22T08:39:00.001-04:00

Banana Republic top - 2007 - $30 on sale (similar) / Merona trouser jeans via Target - 2011 - $18 on sale (similar) / Franco Sarto heels via Piperlime - 2011 - $45 on sale (available) / Target earrings - 2011 - $6 (similar) / Gold leaf bracelet - gift from my friend Stephanie (she made it!) (similar)

[Worn: 09.20.11 | To: Volunteer, errands, work]

One of the things I'm learning very quickly about freelancing is that you can't predict when you will be busy. You can't really even plan around it. It just happens. And (yay for me) it's finally starting to happen! About 90% of the work so far is for previous clients, and the other 10% is non-paid writing, so it's not like my career has exploded (or anything remotely close to that), but work is work.

This outfit was perfect for a busy day of running around and sitting long hours. Trouser jeans don't wrinkle as easily as regular trousers, and I love how breezy the top makes the whole look feel. These are my favorite jeans, hands down, and it's a struggle not to reach for them every single day.

What one item would you wear everyday?

Another year older...

2011-09-21T08:30:00.000-04:00

[daviddave]

Every year in mid-September, I go through a bit of a crisis. OK, not so much a crisis as a time of deep reflection. Of self doubt. Of slight despair.

The million dollar question, one I ask myself every year, is, "I'm 28 (or whatever age I'm turning). What have I done with my life?" I haven't changed the world, I haven't had a great life epiphany, and I haven't starred in a Broadway musical. The 15-year-old Angeline would be so disappointed.

So what have I done with my life? Not much of anything important to the world, but a lot in terms of personal growth.

At 19/20: Stopped trying to be cool and found life was better being myself (many others agreed, though I lost a number of friends along the way). Learned to trust myself and not compromise, especially in dating. Fell in love with a guy that encouraged me to be a better person and follow my dreams.

At 21: In a year-long office internship, learned to deal with a micromanaging boss and tension-charged work environments. After graduation, ditched my college major and a full-time job offer to pursue my dream of working in magazines in New York City.

At 22: Learned to sleep well on red-eye flights. Seriously doubted my abilities and life direction, leading to lots of anxiety, which I poured into blogging to a non-existent audience. Learned the value of good verbal communication in a cross-country relationship.

At 23: Overcame my self-doubt momentarily to finish my Master's Degree. Got married and learned that I wasn't at the center of the universe (never was, never will be).

At 24: Started my first full-time job (with benefits!) and budgeted out a student loan repayment plan. Survived many faux pas and regrets as I learned to adapt to the office work environment.

At 25: Stopped comparing Sacramento to NYC and learned to love my new home.

At 26: Put myself out there (online and in person) and learned how rewarding it could be. Learned that no matter how hard you work and how good you are at something, some people will never get past their own mental roadblocks or perceptions of you. Realized that others' mental roadblocks or perceptions of you should never stop you from working hard and doing good work. Saw the fruits of my budget as I paid off the last of my student loans.

At 27: Deepened friendships new and old. Denied for a year that I was in my late-20s. Took a huge leap of faith with a big move and a big career change. Continued putting myself out there in an even more intimidating environment.

Things I'd love to say next year about being 28:

Learned to be a good friend from afar. I hate the phone and am inconsistent with emails, but friendships are not going to maintain themselves. I have a lot to learn.
Learned to take care of myself. My eating habits are not bad, but my health and exercise habits are terrible. I learned during my eczema breakout earlier this summer how important it is to care for my body, starting with a regular exercise and vitamins.

What have you learned from life so far and what do you hope to learn this coming year?

__

Shameless Plug: I've entered Lucky Magazine's search for a new Lucky Life contributor! Rounds 1 and 2 were qualifiers, and now it's all based on fan votes. So if you like Lucky Magazine—or if you just like me—check out my Modern Mediterranean Birthday entry and vote! [Lucky log-in/registration required.] Voting for this round ends Friday. Thank you!

Sunny days [outfit]

2011-09-20T08:30:00.000-04:00

Gap Favorite V-neck T - 2011 - $7 on sale (available) / Yellow strapless smocked dress worn as skirt - 2010 - swap (similar) / Vintage belt via Bows and Arrows - 2010 - $12 (similar) / Black wood bead necklace - 2010 - swap (similar) / Target metallic flip flops - 2009 - $7 (similar)

[Worn: 09.16.11 | To: Write, write and work]

I love finding new uses for old pieces. This skirt is actually a tube dress, and it's one of my favorites for the beach. Yup, this is my go-to swim coverup. I think this is the second time I've worn it when not going to the beach, and the first time it's made it out of the house. Why in the world did I not do this earlier? The belt really makes the look, and the flip flops seemed just right with the casual fabric of the skirt.

My birthday is tomorrow, and fall officially begins on Friday. Things I'm looking forward to this season:

The end of storm season. We've been really lucky in South Florida so far, only a few more months to go until glorious winter. We got a crash course in storm prep when Irene was still threatening Florida, so we're as ready as we can be, but you never know what you don't know until something happens.
Going home. My new nephew enters this world next month, and a few weeks after that I'm headed out to So Cal to help my sis-in-law out around the house and with the boys (baby and his 3 1/2-year-old big bro). So excited to do Halloween with them!
Fall TV. We had planned to get rid of cable TV when we moved, but our building (and rent) comes with basic, so we still have just about all our favorite channels (minus glaring holes ESPN and FX). My faves: Fringe, Glee, The Office, Bones, and How I Met Your Mother. I'm not addicted. I'm not addicted. I'm not addicted?
Getting unpacked. As you may have seen on my Facebook page, I have a new bookshelf background in my recent outfit pics. Still not completely unpacked yet, but getting really, really close.
Learning to run. I'm mostly looking forward to this. After discovering the amazing scenery of a nearby trail, I've decided I'd like to start running...err, learning how to run without feeling like I'm dying. The goal? I'd like to be able to run one mile without stopping by the end of the year, something I have never done in my life. Wish me luck!

What are you most looking forward to for fall?

In the moment

2011-09-19T08:30:00.000-04:00

I've been lukewarm about clothing shopping lately, but making up for it in other things, namely home items and beauty products. Things I'm loving right now:

Black nail polish. As cheap as possible.
[shown: Rimmel London, but I'll take anything sub-$5 with no shimmer]

Because flawless skin never goes out of style.
[Bobbi Brown Face Touch Up Stick]

Not in my price range, but a ruffly pillow is on my DIY list.
[Anthropologie Meet Me In St. Louis pillow]

Fascinated by this five-year journal, so I used a birthday gift card to get one of my own.
[Levenger 5-year journal]

What are you in love with right now?

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 09.16.11

2011-09-16T17:00:00.000-04:00

The view from my walk this morning.

Happy Friday, folks! It looks like the Expedit I want for my home office is finally back in stock, so I'll be busy allen-wrenching and unpacking this weekend. I cannot wait until I can turn my head and not see a cardboard packing box in my line of vision (aside from sticking my head in a corner). What do you have planned?

Some great reads from this week:

I have lots of opinions on office wear (as you've seen), but they're just that: my opinions. Salary.com recently did a survey about office dress codes, and to be honest, the results aren't that surprising. What you wear affects your workplace.
If I could have a planner for every single purse I own, I would. Unfortunately, that would be a bad way to stay organized. But maybe I can find room for this amazing (and customizable) planner seen on Srsly Liz.
When it comes to fit, I rarely alter my clothing (with the exception of bridesmaid dresses). But in case you do, or if you'd like to but don't know where to start, Corporette's guide to suiting alterations is a great resource (written by Extra Petite).
I take my time off seriously, even if it's just a long weekend trip to see my girlfriends, but a lot of folks either don't take their earned vacation or feel guilty when they do. Classy Career Girl offers some great tips on how you can get rid of that guilty feeling.
These should be no-brainers, but if you work in an office, you should read Professiongal's post on break room etiquette. Just in case.
If you're a student stressing about your major, don't. Your college major doesn't matter (Lindsay Pollak explains). I should know...I haven't used my college major since, oh, I graduated from college.
I usually like to make my own pillowcases for around my home, but if I didn't, I'd get these magazine pillows. [via Curbed.com]
Co-worker competition is inevitable, and can be tricky when you're friends. The Grindstone offers some tips on how to deal in those situations.
Another good read from the Grindstone this week: Should corporations accommodate women's failure to negotiate?

What good reads did you find this week?

Random thoughts [outfit]

2011-09-16T10:09:00.000-04:00

BR Factory Store t-shirt - 2011 - $5 on sale (similar) / Textured pencil skirt - 2010 - swap (similar) / Anne Klein mary janes via Macy's - 2011 - $25 on sale (available) / Dark faux pearl strand worn doubled and safety-pinned - 2011 - gift (similar)

[Worn: 09.15.11 | To: Volunteer and run errands]

Things are starting to pick up around here...I've had my busiest week in weeks! Went in to volunteer three times, ran an entire day full of errands (still getting things sorted out and unpacked), checked out a new church small group, and worked on a few client projects. Oh, and there's this blog. I did a slight redesign this week, but to be honest, I'm not entirely in love with it, so it's back to the drawing board. Life is settling into a new "normal," and I'm liking it.

Random thoughts today:

I have the KFC popcorn chicken commercial stuck in my head (again). Why pick on chicken nuggets? Or should we also be asking, "What part of the chicken is the parmigiana?" or "What part of the chicken is the cordon bleu?"
Took a walk outside this morning on a little waterfront trail near our apartment. I forgot to start my Runkeeper until about five minutes in, so my best estimate is the route I took today is right around one mile. Hopefully this is the start to a good habit.

I'll be back this afternoon with some links...see you soon!

Favorites and not-so-favorites

2011-09-15T08:30:00.000-04:00

Striped sweater via Marshall's - 2011 - $12 (similar) / BR Factory Store pants - 2009 - $20 on sale (similar) / Enzo Angiolini peep-toes via Nordstrom - 2007 - $70 on sale (similar) / Kate Spade doodles necklace - 2011 - gift (similar)

[Worn: 09.13.11 | To: Dress for Success]

After being away from my work clothes for so long, I was dying to get back into some work slacks. (wow, that's not a sentence you hear everyday.) These are my favorite. They're getting a little snug, so I reached for a looser top. In hindsight, I wish I'd added some more color. My trusty red pumps are currently out of commission (missing a heel tip), but they would have been a great anchor to this outfit. But then they'd clash with the coral necklace. Oh, what the heck.

My favorite pants somehow made their way into a not-so-favorite outfit. I think they can redeem themselves, though.

Do you have a favorite item that sometimes just doesn't work, no matter how much you love it?

Five ways to stay productive when you're in a rut

2011-09-14T08:30:00.000-04:00

[JonDissed]

We all get into them, and it takes some of us longer than others to get out of them. No, I'm not talking about the backseat of a two-door car (is anyone else completely inept at getting in and out of those?), but a rut. Sometimes it's a mental block, sometimes it's lack of inspiration. But that time doesn't have to be wasted. Here are my favorite ways to get stuff done even when I'm not feeling it.

1. Learn a new skill. One of my favorite ways to tackle a mental block is to pick something work-related that I want to learn how to do and get to work figuring out how to do it. For me, that something usually involves HTML, CSS, and Wordpress (I'm setting up a personal website for my freelancing), which I know will involve a good amount of time spent researching online. Google is a no-brainer.

2. Read up on your field. Back in my office days, I started each morning catching up on RSS feeds of nonprofit communications and higher education marketing blogs. As a result, I began almost every day with a new idea, and I was able to suggest new ways to do things and keep up with chatter at professional conferences.

3. Answer emails or do other "housekeeping" type tasks. Sometimes mental clutter is brought on by clutter elsewhere...your inbox, your desk, your life, etc. Forcing yourself to answer every email that you can in one sitting not only gets those things off your plate, but also lightens the pressure (which sometimes releases your mental block, too). Likewise, organizing random papers can bring to light some notes (and inspiration) that you'd forgotten about. If an abruptly ended conversation with a friend is still weighing on your mind, clear it up.

4. Do whatever it is you're avoiding. Just get it over with already. In journalism school there's a saying...write your first draft, delete everything but your last paragraph, and write your story using your last paragraph as your new lede. It doesn't work all of the time, but the point is that sometimes you know your first version is going to suck, so you might as well get it out of the way. For me, that means opening up Microsoft Word and writing...whatever. Sometimes it's stream of consciousness journaling, sometimes it's a blog post, sometimes it's fiction.

5. Exercise. I put this last because it's my least favorite of the list. This may not work for those committed to a desk from 8-5, but if you have the flexibility and freedom, get your body (and your brain moving. Even a brisk 15 minute walk can help clear your head. Outdoors and along the water preferred.

How do you get out of a rut?

Carissa Rose review and reader discount [outfit]

2011-09-13T08:30:00.000-04:00

Katerina shirt dress c/o Carissa Rose (available) / LOFT sandals - 2009 - $10 on sale (similar) / Artisans Lane Turkish Jewelry necklace - 2010 - gift (available in other colors) / Emilie M faux leather bag via Marshall's - 2011 - $25 (similar)

[Worn: 09.11.11 | To: Church]

I love the look of a crisp button-up, but I know a lot of women have trouble with them. Fit can be off, buttons can gape. And that's for those of us who aren't overly endowed up top. It's even harder to find a good fit when your proportions are not the same as what the manufacturers use (and really, who has those proportions?).

Carissa Rose is a company that specializes in making button-up tops and dresses flatter and fit women with curves and larger chests. Carissa Rose's tops use hook and eye closures spaced about an inch apart to get rid of the gaping problem.

When I first received an email from them, I was intrigued by their mission, but I didn't think it was for me, since I'm not really curvy. I wrote back to tell them that, and they asked for some of my measurements to see if they could work with my size (34B or C bra, 28.5" waist, normal dress size 2/4). They sent me the black Katerina dress in size 6WE and the truffle Olivia shirt in size 4RE. I finally got around to wearing the dress this weekend, and I have to say...this is my new favorite dress.

Pros

Lightweight fabric
Hook-and-eye closure on top eliminates gaping
Skirt is single piece (no buttons)
Skirt is straight (not A-line), so it doesn't give off the 50s housewife vibe that many shirtdresses do
Sash is long and thick, and can be tied in various ways
Truly knee-length, which is very flattering and elongates the calves

Cons

The dress is supposed to be long-sleeved, but the sleeves hit 2" above my wrist (I like to roll my sleeves anyway, so this wasn't a big deal for me)
Unlined

For all my doubts about fitting into clothes made for curvy women, the sizing was perfect...loose enough to roll up the sleeves and be a bit airy, but fitted enough that I didn't get lose my shape. I'm excited to try out the Olivia shirt soon, and of course I'll be back to report on that.

Get one for yourself

Carissa Rose is offering New Professional readers a 20% discount off your purchase with the code THENEWPROFESSIONAL20. Discount expires October 13, 2011. Shop their website, which also includes great sizing and shopping resources for curvy women, and check them out on Facebook and Twitter.

Tell me...has fit an gaping prevented you from buying button-up shirts and shirtdresses? Have you tried Carissa Rose?

Disclosure: Carissa Rose sent me two items free of charge for review, but the content of the reviews is all mine. No compensation was provided, and no agreement was made to guarantee a post or positive coverage.

Office Supply of the Month | Correction fluid

2011-09-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure about you, but I generally think of Wite Out before I think correction fluid. It's one of those brand names that's somehow seeped into our everyday vernacular, like Kleenex and Chapstick.

Back in the early typewriter days, there were very few ways to correct a document with a typo on it; usually the answer was just to toss it and start over. Inventors started by creating special typewriter erasers, complete with eraser shields to protect the type around the mistake. Then erasable bond paper allowed typos to be erased by a regular pencil eraser, but the coating also made any ink easily smudged. Then came correction fluid, and later on, correction tape built right into the typewriter, which used a sticky substance to pull the ink powder right back out of the paper.

Typewriters have a soft spot in my heart...my parents had an electric one, and even after we had a home computer, I'd pull it out to play with and use from time to time. I typed all my college applications on that machine, lining up the row so it would fit in the little spaces just right. The case was the size of a suitcase, and it took all my strength to lug it from the study room across the house to my room (good thing we still had carpet upstairs back then).

Our typewriter had correction tape built in, so I rarely used Wite-Out with it, which is why I'm so fascinated with the fact that the product has held on so long even after the technology that necessitated it has solved the problem in a different, more efficient way. Maybe folks are just having too much fun with it (see uses below).

History
The invention of correction fluid is traced back to Bette Nesmith Graham, a typist. Frustrated with the existing options for correcting typos, she created a tempura paint-based solution in her kitchen blender in 1951. The resulting liquid dried quickly and opaquely, and could be typed over. She bottled up her concoction, dubbed it "Mistake Out," and distributed it at work. In 1956, she started her own company and sold the product from her house for almost two decades. Somewhere along the line, she changed the name to "Liquid Paper." In 1979, Graham sold her Liquid Paper Corporation to Gillette Corporation, and the brand was later acquired by Newell Rubbermaid in 2000.

Liquid Paper (and probably other correction fluid manufacturers) has had issues with its products containing harmful chemicals in the past, and some brands may still carry small risks. There are water-based products on the market today if that's something you're concerned about, although they tend to be slightly thinner and dry slower.

Uses

Paint your nails (bonus if you can find colorful correction fluid). You can do your whole nail or use a pen for
Make etchings in metal more visible, like on file cabinet lock numbers (dab it on and swipe it right back off before it dries...the excess will remain in the grooves of the numbers)
Label keys or other items that pen ink won't stick to and sharpies may not show up on.
Use as touch-up paint for white items.
As a paint pen for crafts.

Fun with correction fluid

Some discontinued colors (sometimes on ebay or other websites): Green, blue, pink

Do you still use correction fluid? Or did that go the way of the typewriter?

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 09.09.11

2011-09-09T15:00:00.000-04:00

Office progress so far...planning wall placement and a cork squares cut down to size.

Happy Friday, folks! I'm so excited for NFL's opening weekend, I even stayed up until midnight to watch all of last night's opener (I forgot how late games go on the East Coast). And with football season comes fantasy football. I'm in my regular league w/ K and our friends and also a fashion blogger's league. For real. The Color Blockers are Linda, Liz, Suze, Jenni, Sarah, Keri, and Amanda. I've been playing fantasy sports for years, and have rarely been the only woman in my league, but there is something refreshing about playing with a group of ladies that love the sport as much (or more) than I do. Game on, friends!

If you're not too into football, or just bored during halftime breaks, here are my favorite reads this week.

It's great to have a job you love, but having a non-dream job doesn't have to be the end of the world. Pretty Young Professional shares some great tips on how to make the most of it.
I'm convinced that if I had these measuring cups, I'd be a better baker. [via Swissmiss]
Office + fashion = my wheelhouse. Loving the great Who What Wear workspace featured on Apartment Therapy this week.
On Writing Well is one of my favorite writing books, but the rest of the book on Stepcase Lifehack's list sound like they're worth checking out, too. My fall reading list, perhaps?
How in the world did we get to the current resume? Mashable traces the modern history of this much bemoaned (and questionably relevant) document.
There are only so many i'm-a-big-city-journalist-and-I-shop-all-day movie characters I can handle, so I love The Grindstone's carefully edited list of their favorite savvy female journalists in the movies.
Business and style savvy are not mutually exclusive. Financial Times explores the role of financial prowess in fashion.
We all have a few bruises along our resumes, but understanding your risk factors and framing them appropriately in an interview can turn potential negatives into positives. [via Lifehacker]

What were your favorite reads this week? More importantly, will you be watching football this weekend?

A night out and regional style [outfit]

2011-09-09T08:16:00.001-04:00

Esley dress worn as top - 2009 - $63 (similar) / J & Company jeans via Renew Denim - 2009 - $40 on sale (similar) / Kate Spade pumps - 2011 - gift (similar) / J. Crew belt - 2011 - $10 on sale (similar) / Thrifted clutch - 2004 - cheap (similar) / NY & Co. mesh bangle - 2010 - gift (similar) / Tiffany venetian link bracelet - 2011 - gift card + gift (available; similar) / Forever 21 large link bracelet - 2010 - $5 (similar)

[Worn: 09.08.11 | To: Fashion's Night Out in Coral Gables, FL]

Fashion events are not something that's usually on my schedule, and I always draw a blank on what to wear. Luckily, I have you all by my side and through quick and insightful tweets and Facebook comments, you all (really, all) picked this option: the belted dress and skinny jean combo. Several of you mentioned throwing a blazer on top, so I brought along my trusty black one, making this outfit almost exactly like this previous one.

A few of you mentioned that the jeans might be a little underdressed, but to be honest...I wasn't so sure. But I have to admit...I felt a tad underdressed (there were some women in full-length gowns, but not many). I feel that way a lot here, hence my little personal goal for the month. I've heard from many non-Californians who had been transplanted into the Golden State how laid-back California style was compared to general style elsewhere (especially the Northeast and South), but I never really understood what they were talking about. But I'm starting to.

And so, in the muggy heat, I kept that blazer on all night. And I have you friends to thank.

Have you noticed any regional style differences in your moves or travels?

Mirror-free is not the way to be [outfit]

2011-09-08T08:30:00.000-04:00

Mossimo dress via Target - 2011 - $10 on clearance (available) / Aerosoles suede loafers via Macy's - 2007 - $30 on sale (similar) / Emilie M. bag via Marshall's - 2011 - $25 (similar) / Dark pearl necklace and matching studs - 2011 - gift (similar) / Ball chain necklace - old - cheap (similar)

[Worn: 09.07.11 | To: Meet w/ Dress for Success Miami and run errands]

I really need to get a full-length mirror. I felt great in this outfit, but that's mainly because I didn't see what the dress + shoes looked like until I got home. My feet were a bit sore (I wore heels Wednesday and ended up spending 4+ hours on my feet), so I wanted to be comfortable. I love the dress and shoes separately, but never again will they be worn together.

Yesterday, I met with Dress for Success Miami/Suited for Success to discuss volunteering options. The organization is basically about everything I love...helping women and men prepare for careers through training and wardrobe. And now that I have a flexible schedule, I wanted to get involved and meet new people. Turns out, what they need help with is what I know how to do, so we have a follow-up meeting next week, and I'm helping at their Fashion's Night Out table tonight.

Where do you volunteer?

[Edit: I couldn't remember where I first saw a necklace worked this way, but now I know it was from Elaine at Clothed Much. She tricked out her pearl strand with a ribbon, which works great if you don't have a shorter necklace that complements your strand. Thanks, Elaine!

Home office: purpose and plans

2011-09-07T08:30:00.013-04:00

Another apartment, another home office. Couple that with my cubicle changes at my last job, and this will be the fourth work area I've worked in (and shown you) in the year-and-a-half since I started this blog (see 1, 2 and 3).

My last home office was...how should I say it...ideal. It was bright, spacious, and organized. I loved the heck out of it, and wish that I could have worked from home more instead of using it just on weekends and holidays. Now that I am using the home office everyday, I'm trying to incorporate what I loved about my last space to create a neat and productive space here.

Purpose
Daily home office, book storage, craft storage, board game storage.

Budget
As little as possible (I'm not a strict budgeter). We definitely need a bookshelf, something cheap and sturdy with lots of storage capacity. The built-ins did the trick in our last place, and we left the small bookshelves in the office—one was a Target shelf that used to be full height (broke in half during a previous move) and the other I bought specifically to fit under the long windows and wouldn't have fit well elsewhere.

Space

My new office space is at the far end of our living area, right up against the window. Since our living area is just one long rectangle, you get a straight shot to my desk from the front door. Our new apartment has some of the same charm of the old place. High ceilings, large windows, wood floors. Here's what it looks like now (pardon the boxes of books...see why we need a bookshelf?).

The plan

My plans and ideas from my office. Bold indicates new/recent purchases.

Glass jars for pencils, highlighters, odds and ends. I just use empty ones left over from the food we buy (bonus if they have pretty clear stickers instead of paper ones).
Ikea Kassett DVD boxes for craft storage.
Ikea Kassett magazine boxes for paper and fabric storage. ($9.99 for two; I'll get four, so $20)
Mid-back fabric office chair. Purchased in 2007.
Ikea Expedit 4x4 bookshelf. ($129 new, but I'm keeping an eye on Craigslist, too)
Ikea Fredrik desk. I also have the two-drawer attachment (which has since been discontinued). Purchased in 2004.
Office art from my old cubicle (this print from kirstypaterson).
Haitian steel drum bird piece I picked up on South Congress in Austin. ($24)
A custom Coco and Louie 16-month wall calendar from sweetmusingspaperie. ($20)

I know that a $200 room isn't in everyone's budget, but considering that the price includes a large furniture piece, I don't think we did all that badly. We also have a two-drawer filing cabinet and wireless printer that will fit in somewhere (likely with the printer on top of the cabinet).

Ikea was out of the birch Expedit when we tried it this past weekend, so the execution of this plan is on hold for now. But no fear...you'll get pics when it's all done, hopefully in the next week or two.

What storage do you find to be the most essential in your office space? Bookshelves, boxes, baskets?

Church hopper

2011-09-06T08:30:00.008-04:00

Ann Taylor factory store top - 2011 - $30 on sale (similar) / Merona trouser jeans via Target - 2011 - $18 on sale (similar) / Enzo Angiolini Maylie pumps via Nordstrom - 2007 - $70 on sale (similar) / Forever 21 leaf necklace - 2010 - $5 (similar)

[Worn: 09.04.11 | To: Church and lunch]

If you're following along with Dressy September over on Facebook, you've already seen this outfit, but there's no commentary or details there. This is what I wore on Sunday to check out a new (to us) church in downtown Miami.

Something I've noticed about moving around a lot (and knowing people that move around a lot) is that everyone has different MOs for meeting new people. Sometimes it's work, sometimes it's through friends you already know, sometimes it's classmates. For me, it's usually been church. Attending and participating in a church is important to me for many reasons, but camaraderie is one that anyone can relate to, even if you're not religious.

When I moved to Davis, I was brand new at work and the other new girl I worked with did not like me at all. K had lived there for two years already, so most of my friends right off the bat were K's classmates. They were in class when he was in class, and they were studying when he was studying. I love these folks a lot and many of them are dear friends of mine now, but it wasn't helping me branch out at first. It wasn't until we found a church to call home that I began making my own friends (OK, they knew K, too, but I like to count them as mine).

We've been here about a month now and have tried three churches: one was recommended to us by a friend, one is where K's cousin and his family go, and the other we found on the Internet. We're leaning in a certain direction although we haven't really settled on a home church yet, but I'm excited about what we've seen and experienced so far.

What's your MO for meeting people when you're new in town?

Dressy September

2011-09-05T15:37:00.000-04:00

One of the most basic pieces of advice I hear from folks who work from home is to get dressed for work every day. While that seems easy in theory, the level of dressiness differs from person to person. I've never been a big pajamas person, so I always get dressed, usually in shorts and a tee. But does this minimum make me feel like I'm ready for work? Nope. Sure, I got dressed a few times last week, but for real consistency I need to learn better habits.

They say it takes 21 consecutive days of doing something for it to become a habit. If you can do 21, why not 30? So for the month of September, I'm making an effort to get dressed—really get dressed—every single day. Partly to get into the habit of getting ready for work each morning, but also because I don't think you always need a reason to dress up. Just because is just fine.

I'll be using these outfits as my outfit posts this month, but if you want to see every single day, hop on over and "like" The New Professional on Facebook. I'll be posting outfits there daily.

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 09.02.11

2011-09-02T13:29:00.000-04:00

[Unpacked my kitchen stuff and my appliances are all out on the counter. Easy access = actual use. Smoothies FTW!] | [Saks September Fashion catalog. I don't shop at Saks, but apparently my landlord's daughter does. And since they don't actually live here, what's the harm in browsing the pages a little, right?] | [Lip gloss pencil] | [Last night's game. We lost, but I got to spend a wonderful 3 hours staring at Tony Romo walk the sidelines with a headset on]

It's been exactly a week since our stuff was finally delivered, and I've been in major unpacking and cleaning mode all week (with a small project for my old employer thrown in...yay for work!). The dust is really kicking my allergies and eczema into high gear, so we're heading to Ikea this weekend to grab some more storage and unpack the rest of this stuff. Things are fitting in quite nicely, though!

While I'm allen-wrenching yet another Expedit into place this weekend, why don't you check out some of my favorite reads from this week?

Men are encouraged to keep a "touch of gray" in their hair for a more distinguished look, but does that same advice apply to women? Corporette delves into the topic.
I have a hard time finding bangles and jewelry that fit my wrist and my style (I'm picky). ModlyChic's clay bangle DIY is so easy, I'm excited to start making my own to fit my style!
On another DIY kick...I'm predicting some of K's dingy white shirts will be getting a makeover soon, a la Pixie in Pumps cropped striped tee tutorial.
Our little LC is growing up...check out her 8 work attire commandments over at the Grindstone.
I'm drawing a blank right now in setting up my new home office, but Inspired Magazine's feature of famous office environments (Google, Skype, etc.) is just that...inspired!
A $5M closet. Enough said. [via Curbed National]
For the petites out there...Alterations Needed (a longtime fave) has launched a new project: Hemmed.com. Check it out!
I can't tell you how many times having a USB drive in my purse has come in handy. I'm thinking my freebie logo-ed deal needs an upgrade to this bag charm USB drive. [Thanks, Angie, for the heads up on this one!]
Forbes Woman tells us why women will help shape the future of work (and how we already have).
Loving this executive coloring book. [via Shoplet blog]
Menswear is a huge trend this fall, but mens shirts? Check out this awesome video showing the many ways women can style a mens shirt (hint, as a shirt doesn't even come up until the end). [via Juniper James, tipped off by Citizen Rosebud]

Tell me—what are your long weekend plans?

First of the month [outfit]

2011-09-01T14:25:00.001-04:00

Nine West Vintage America Jeans top - 2010 - won from Nine West Vintage America contest (similar) / Black Orchid gray jeans via Renew Denim - 2010 - $25 on sale (similar) / Old Navy belt - ?? - cheap (similar) / Gap sandals - 2010 - $20 (similar) / American Eagle outlet chain necklace - 2011 - $4 on clearance (similar) / Tarte natural lip stain in Moody via Sephora - 2011 - $24 (available)

[Worn: 09.01.11 | To: Clean the apartment and go to the Dolphins–Cowboys game]

Happy September! Typically, I'd be waxing on and off about how I'm looking forward to the long weekend (and probably something about how it actually feels like Friday but it's really Thursday), but who am I kidding—I'm living one big long [working] weekend. It's not half bad, especially when you wake up and have a lot to say.

So three things for you today:

1. It's September! Also known as My Birthday Month. I have to admit, it's a little bittersweet this year. We know all of 5 people in Miami so far (and we don't know them that well), so birthday plans are really up in the air. I love a good celebration, but don't want people to feel awkward being invited to a new acquaintance's birthday party.

2. I'm going to my first NFL game tonight! Sure, it's just preseason, but it's a Cowboys game, and they are my favorite sports team in the whole wide world. I have a jersey, but now that Barber's been traded, it just felt a little wrong, so this Cowboys-inspired blue and gray get-up will have to do. Now just to decide...keep the sandals or change into boots for the game?

3. It took me several tries to get this little tuck thingy down. Check out the losing tucks:

Losers

P.S. Lorena - I got my shoes in the pic! Took me a while to find a picture spot, but I think this one works. :)

How do you show your team spirit? Jerseys, face paint?

Sponsor Spotlight | September

2011-09-01T05:30:00.000-04:00

Thank you to this month's blog sponsor, Go Chic or Go Home. They recently launched Monocle, their homepage inspiration board featuring looks from community members. Check it out—the current theme is blue (and you may see some familiar faces).

My dog ate my homework and other work excuses that don't work

2011-08-31T15:00:00.001-04:00

[rollanb]

We've all heard one. We've all said one. A lame excuse. While excuses can be annoying anytime, chronic excuses in the workplace can tarnish your reputation and cast doubts on your abilities.

Excuses that don't work:

I was working on [low-priority project]. If you have a hard time prioritizing your work, ask your supervisor when the projects are assigned. If you don't ask, it may be assumed that you should know, and this excuse won't fly.
I didn't know it was due yet. A few things you should always ask at the beginning of a project: timeline, budget, and relative priority. Not asking doesn't mean you're off the hook.
Most things that you volunteer without being prompted. Making an excuse when you're not being questioned makes you sound guilty. Are you?
Anything that's repeated more than once a month. Chronic excuses send up a red flag. If you are constantly having difficulty getting your work done, then maybe you're in over your head.

Excuses that sometimes work:

I'm waiting on [someone else]. Does this someone else know you're waiting on them? What's their excuse? While some folks just can't be prodded along quickly enough, learning good project and people management skills can help you avoid most situations like this.
I didn't see that after-hours request come in. Although the lines are increasingly blurred with today's technology, this is valid if you're an hourly employee and aren't required to check in outside of work. If you're salaried and exempt from overtime, it's a little fuzzier, especially if you have a work-issued cell phone that you're expected to check.

Valid excuses:

I was working on [higher priority project]. Although any excuse should also be avoided, if a high-priority rush project came in and took up your time, don't drop the ball. At the same time, you shouldn't let progress lapse on lower priority projects if you can help it.
Emergencies. While I hope this doesn't happen to you, sometimes an emergency can derail our work. Sudden illness or medical emergencies, death, and personal catastrophes can result in unplanned days off work.

I've made my fair share of excuses over the years (just ask my mom, she's heard them all). The most memorable one, though, has to be from President's Day weekend my second semester of grad school. K proposed on Friday night and I had an assignment that I hadn't started writing yet due at 5 pm on Saturday. I emailed the prof for a 24 hour extension, which she granted. When I got back to class on Tuesday morning, my prof outed me to the whole class, saying it was the best excuse she'd ever heard. I highly doubt it, but I was glad she was understanding (her son had recently gotten engaged, too).

What's the worst excuse you've ever heard at work? The worst one you've ever used?

Feels like new [outfit]

2011-08-31T08:30:00.005-04:00

BR Monogram top - 2011 - $15 on sale (similar) / Merona jeans via Target - 2011 - $18 on sale (similar) / Rubbish scarf via Nordstrom - 2009 - $10 on sale (similar) / J. Crew outlet belt - 2011 - $5 on sale (similar) / Rampage wedges - 2009 - $25 on sale (similar) / Emilie M. bag via Marshall's - 2011 - $25 (similar)

[Worn: 08.30.11 | To: Mall and Target, my regular haunts]

Yes, I realize my feet are cut off. It was so easy to find an outfit spot when there was nothing in my apartment. That's why you get a dedicated shoe shot. I also realize I'm not too consistent with labeling [outfit] in my titles. Working on that. Moving along...

I've been in a bit of a funk so far this week, mainly due to the eczema outbreaks. Just when they were starting to get better, our stuff arrived, bringing in all kinds of new dust and dirt from the month spent in storage and the various trucks it traveled on to get here, and aggravating my skin even worse than it was last week. I've been in hiding.

But this blog would suck without outfits, so I came out of hiding for a bit yesterday to stock up on more skin care supplies. Aveeno, Cetaphil, Aquafor, CeraVe, and Cortisone line my bathroom counter, waiting their turn to attack.

This outfit is way dressier than I would have worn in my previous life on a random Tuesday errand run, but I was so excited to have my clothes (and shoes!) back that I had to bust out the big guns (aka, heels). I'd guess that about half my shoes are heels, and it's going to be interesting to try to work them into daily wear.

Do you wear heels casually or just for work and dressier events?

In the moment

2011-08-30T08:30:00.001-04:00

Things I'm loving right now:

Nine West Quicken wedges

Camp shirts

Tiffany & Co. patent leather envelope (perfect for business cards)

Moleskine monthly notebook, extra large. Considering replacing my trusty pocket Moleskine with this desk one.

What are you loving these days?

Black on black

2011-08-29T08:30:00.001-04:00

Final Touch top via Heart Clothing Boutique - 2011 - $34 (similar) / Old Navy skirt - 2010 - $10 on sale (similar) / Belt via Goodwill Superstore - 2011 - $1 (similar)

[Worn: 08.25.11 | To: Write at home all day]

Well, folks, this is it: my last outfit from my limited suitcase wardrobe. By the time you read this, my stuff will be here and I'll be lying on my bed hugging my shoes, one pair at a time.

Things I am most excited to have back in my possession:

Bed. An air mattress is not a good substitute.
Shoes. I've been stuck on flat ground for a month and a half. I need some height!
Desk. I love this thing.
Microwave. The oven is just sooooo slooooooow.
Sweaters and blankets. Our A/C works...too well for my taste.

Now that we finally have our stuff, I'm slowly unpacking. I really love my apartment, but I can't help but have this nagging feeling in the back of my head that we might be moving in 11 months anyway, so is unpacking completely even worth it? This is my 10th apartment in as many years (four cities, three states), so the vagrant lifestyle is something I'm used to. Nonetheless, I love playing house, so I'm just going to pretend we're going to live here forever and really settle in. Because who really likes living out of boxes?

Do you move a lot? How do you adjust to new places?

Executive Summary | Links for your weekend | 08.26.11

2011-08-26T15:00:00.003-04:00

Cute tweezers

I know...I got y'all excited with last week's Freelance Files, didn't I? They'll be back, just not weekly. I've been seeing all kinds of great posts lately, and still want to share them with you, so I'll probably be alternating links and freelance posts. Or not, we'll see.

It's been a while since I've done one of these, but I'll still be mainly choosing from the past week. Here are some of my favorite reads and finds:

To add the subscription box craze (think Birch Box and the like), Lost Crates mails you monthly boxes of cool paper goods and office supplies. I confess: that would totally make my month. [via The Well-Appointed Desk]
Wate-on and other weight-gain aids were popular in the 40s, 50s, and 60s. Just check out these ads. Ah, the good ol' days. [via Sociological Images]
I have been have tons of fun helping K set up his new office and get ready for the school year (well, as much as I can). Loving these back to school supplies for geeks, hand-picked by Mashable.
The always-informative Sal gives us some quick tips on dressing for transitional seasons.
I love the look of a blazer, and fabulous V knows how to rock one. Plus, she shares some of her blazer-wearing tips.
Obsessed with this music video, and have had the song stuck in my head all week. Watch it, you'll thank me later. [via Boing Boing]
J's Fall 2011 Shopping Guide is my new shopping list, and I love that all of her finds are totally within my budget.
Style Coalition founder Yuli Ziv dishes on what makes a business dress. And she should know. [via Corporette]
I have to admit, when I first heard Lauren Conrad was writing a column for Forbes.com, I was skeptical. But she knows her stuff. Check out her post this week on sponsorship strategies.
Another Forbes goodie: Power Women Tell All About Power. So inspiring.

What good reads did you find this week?