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Job interview
First impressions really are everything. Whether you're just trying to get your foot in the door or hoping to climb your way up the corporate ladder, how you present yourself at a job interview matters now more than ever. To score that big promotion you've been pining for or to finally land that dream job post-baby, remember: You can never go wrong with a little black dress. Glam yours up with a gorgeous pastel statement necklace and a cool cropped tuxedo blazer that screams smart, sophisticated, intelligent woman. Slip on a pair of high heels and grab a basic black structured tote. When you look good, you feel good. And when you feel good, your confidence will naturally shine through.
ASOS Pencil Dress With Structured Peplum (ASOS.com, $80); Sole Society Gayle Block Heel (Solesociety.com, $75); Mango Cropped Tuxedo Blazer (Mango.com, $100); Caviar and Stone Statement Necklace (Amazon.com, $28); TOPSHOP Saffiano Tote Bag (Topshop.com, $72)
Work presentation
Presenting a project you've been pouring your heart into for months in front of your entire company is nerve wracking enough. But if the mere thought of figuring out what to wear makes you want to call in sick, put down the phone stat. For those moms who aren't a part of the corporate world, determining what's appropriate and what's not for a work presentation may be a little bit less clear. While you'll probably get some raised eyebrows if you show up in a full-on pantsuit, a pair of expertly tailored trousers styled with a beautiful blouse, elegant accessories and some killer high heels ought to knock your boss's socks right off. Pay close attention to your office's particular dress code, however, and tweak your ensemble accordingly (either go dressier or tone it down).
Oasis Blue Summer Jacquard Trouser (Oasis.andotherbrands.com, $62); UNIQLO Women Silk 3/4 Sleeve T Blouse (Uniqlo.com, $50); Sparkling Sage Necklace (6PM.com, $35); Jessica Simpson Julip (Zappos.com, $79); ALDO Portoviro Clutch (Aldoshoes.com, $20)
Company picnic
Company picnics are the perfect time to let down your hair and show off your personal style. Just be careful not to push the boundaries too far. If you plan on partaking in any group activities that day, such as the softball game or relay race, it's important to sport an outfit you can actually move in, especially if you'll have the kids in tow too. Avoid anything super-short and revealing, like denim cutoffs and mini dresses (um, inappropriate). Instead, opt for classy, conservative casual pieces, like these easy breezy floral pants paired with a fitted white tee, in lighter fabrics so you don't sweat your butt off in the hot summer sun. Slip on some chic sandals and get ready to give your co-workers a run for their money, girl.
ASOS Wide Leg Floral Print Pants (ASOS.com, $86); Miss Selfridge Eden Summer Flat (Missselfridge.com, $44); Sole Society Dixie Fringe Crossbody (Solesociety.com, $21); Carissa Floppy Hat (Nastygal.com, $40); Boohoo Cara Chiffon Gold Chain Necklace (Boohoo.com, $16); Madewell Slub V-Neck Pocket Tee (Madewell.com, $25)
Business dinner
Prepping for a big dinner meeting with a client? Chances are, what you wore to the office that day will be perfectly acceptable for dinner as well. Here are a few basic rules of thumb to follow though. First and foremost, put on something that will seamlessly transition from day to night, like a fab faux wrap dress in a dark solid hue paired with power pumps in a neutral or metallic tone. Accessories are always your BFF; just be sure yours don't look too "daytimey" with your dress. Cover up with a cute but classy blazer and carry a tote that says you mean business.
Chaps Solid Faux-Wrap Dress (Kohls.com, $64); Banana Republic Midnight Sail Statement Necklace (Bananarepublic.gap.com, $90); French Connection Anmlman Medium Tote (6PM.com, $53); Sole Society Yasmin Pointed Toe Pump (Solesociety.com, $50); Cropped Pastel Tailored Blazer (Chicnova.com, $36)
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