Taking Risks Isn’t Always Risky Business

Hello my lovely proFASHIONals! Usually on Thursdays I’ve been posting an “investment of the week”, but I was so excited about this topic that I HAD to write about it for today. Tom Cruise is famous for his character in the movie, Risky Business, but you don’t need to play his supporting role when it comes to your own goals. One of my high school history teachers always told my class to avoid making “sweeping generalizations”, but what I am about to reveal must go against his advice. Neither one company, nor one person, nor one idea has ever succeeded by playing it safe. Some of the greatest discoveries in science and technology have come out of mistakes. That being said, I’m double dog daring all of my proFASHIONals to take a risk today. And I’m not just talking about a fashion risk; I’m talking business risks too. However, taking risks still comes with strategies. Read on to see my suggestions on how to proFASHIONally take a risk with your wardrobe and your workplace.

Fashion Risk: Granny Chic

Can you pass me my walker and my stilettos?

Have I already completely lost you? Maybe. In that case, I’ll give you the low-down on this fashionably unfashionable trend: close your eyes and visualize your grandmother. Hopefully, you’re not picturing your grandmother naked because that would not only negate my entire explanation, but it’d also be absolutely disgusting. Anyway, granny chic offers you similar styling to what you’d find in your granny’s closet, but with an edge. For example,  your grandmother probably owns as many chunky, fringed sweaters as you own purses. I don’t condone stealing from your grandmother, but maybe she’d let you borrow one for a little while. “Granny” meets “chic” when you pair a chunky sweater with a simple dress and a high-waisted belt, like in this pictures from lulus.com. This RVCA granny sweater is bulky which would normally hide away any signs of a body underneath it, but the belt adds shape to the grandma look, making it “chic”. Neutral-colored floral prints can also be categorized under Granny Chic and can be seen on shoes and other accessories. Why does Granny Chic take a risk AND work for the office? In a world where shorts become shorter every day, granny chic style is as modest as it gets. I mean, would your grandmother wear cut-off jean shorts? No. I DARE you to take a risk and go granny today.

Business Risk: Take E-nitiative

How many people know who you are? Your mom, your friends, your favorite college professor. Now, how many of those people can offer you your dream job? Opportunities are often compared to doors, and sometimes doors may appear to be locked, but with a good kick, some may budge. Similarly, your dream job may not appear to be open when you want it, but you may be able to force one of those doors open by taking initiative. For instance, if there is a company you’ve always dreamed about working at, send them your resume regardless if their website says they’re hiring. Doing something without being told to do it shows self-motivation, self-determination, and genuine interest. Email connects you to anyone you want to communicate to, whether it be that dream company or celebrity. Just make sure to act proFASHIONally, check your spelling and grammar, and always be polite when taking e-nitiative. As long as your email is professional, it won’t hurt you. The worst scenario is that it’d be ignored. However, taking the time to show ambition is a learning experience and will always reveal a reward in given time.

Battle scars show where a person has been hurt, but they also show victory. Without a few bumps or bruises, the body is left untainted. Likewise, life without challenges may feel comfortable, but a life filled with mistakes and risks shows where you’ve been and where you’ve succeeded. Be risky with your fashion choices and be creative with your business endeavors. Act smart, act proFASHIONally, and always operate with optimism. This entire blog has been a risk for me, but I’m already loving it! My own risks will be exemplified soon as I start to prepare for a major blog post coming your way next week! I am interviewing a Project Runway WINNER! Tune in to see which gal it is 🙂 But for now…

Biz, Love & Fashion,

Danielle Honig

Nautical Fashion with Office Cape-ability

Good morning proFASHIONals! I hope everyone had a fantastic Memorial Day weekend! As you may have read, I spent my weekend in Cape Cod. The sun hid behind the clouds all weekend so I can’t say I left Falmouth, MA with a tan, but I did leave the Cape with inspiration. I realized that the ocean is not just an object; it’s a lifestyle. Fashion and activity in Cape Cod revolve around the sea, and it was definitely visible to me even during this cloudy weekend. Nautical clothing is crisp, preppy, comfortable, and timeless; adjectives that translate flawlessly into the office. Read on to see my sea-sational suggestions on how to set sail into the workplace with Nautical fashion.

Anchors Away to Monochromatic Crispness

The white color for anyone.

I have these jeans!

Urban myth fashionistas hide away their whites after Labor Day and don’t show them again until Memorial Day. It seemed as if everyone in Cape Cod was sporting white this past Monday. White clothing usually makes me a little nervous since Murphy’s Law is in full effect when I eat. Anything that can drip onto my clothes, will drip onto my clothes. However, this all white look makes me want to be a fashion daredevil! White bootcut jeans like these by Ralph Lauren with a white button-up shirt looks clean, streamlined, and totally summer sailor chic. Another benefit of a white, monochromatic ensemble is the infinite number of accessory options. I recommend pairing a colored or brown leather braided belt and some fancy flip flops with a white outfit.  Two pieces of advice to consider for all-white outfit, though:

1. Make sure the whites are the same. Clashy does not equal classy.

2. Wear nude undergarments and tanks under white clothing. The light from the sun can expose your cute red undies, even if they looked completely disguised at home!

Crabby with Crustacean Jewelry

A little cuter than Mr.Krabs, don't you think?

Crabby is not an emotion you want to bring into the office, but crabs and sea creatures are excellent inspirations for accessorizing. Colorful animal jewelry is in style right now, and I am completely obsessed with this Rachel Roy crab ring. It’s very fun, very different, and should certainly crawl into your wardrobe! I’d pair it with really anything, but make sure to keep the other accessories simple. This ring should definitely clinch all of the attention it deserves.

These cute wedges will definitely float your boat.

Sperry Nice to Meet You!

One fashion staple of Cape Cod prepsters is a pair of Sperry Topsiders. I have a pair of these famously nautical footwear, and I can’t say enough about the boat shoes. They are extremely comfortable, durable, and look cute with practically any outfit. Depending on the atmosphere in your office, they may be a little too casual, but Sperry also offers an array of dressier shoe options. This pair of black Sperry wedges, for example, would look amazing with a black pencil skirt or khaki dress pants. The little rawhide laces mimic the boat shoes, bringing that nautical feel into your cubicle. This pair of polka dot Sperry wedges exemplify the nautical essence of simple pattern, parallel with the ever famous nautical stripes.

Nautical boat attire is cute and contemporary, but it is also relaxed. I guarantee you’ll feel calmer in the office by bringing ocean-inspired clothing into your wardrobe! But for now,

Biz, Love, & Fashion,

Danielle Honig

Investment of the Week: Polished and Perfect Tip Trends

Hello proFASHIONals! Although it may not seem like it here in New England, summer is definitely on its way. And with the hot, sunny days comes hot, new nail polish colors! However, if you’ve read the latest style magazines, you may have noticed that some of the trends are questionable for the office settings. This post will take that nail-biting anxiety off your shoulders and discuss how your tips can still look proFASHIONal in the office!

Can I have that in a sugar cone, please?

Ice cream tastes oh so sweet on summer nights, and your nails can look sweet too in sorbet colors. These colors are like pastels with a little kick in them. They’re opaque, they’re brighter, and they pop. For the most part, these colors are still suitable for your fingernails in the proFASHIONal world. I’d recommend using one of the coral sorbet colors. Recently, I sported Essie’s Tart Deco color (shown to the left) and received many compliments. Periwinkle, mint, and light pink are other sorbet hues you should set your sights on.

One summer nail trend that never seems to go out of style is the bright, vibrant polish. You may be thinking these aren’t appropriate for the office, and I’d agree a little bit. I do think they aren’t the best choice for your fingers, however, I think your toe nails should be a nail polish free-for-all! People in the office will be seeing your fingers all day, but you can cover up or show off your toes as much as you want. If you’re a little toe-shy, peep-toe shoes will give the public a small glimpse at your flirty nails. If you’re proud of your neon pink toes, show them off in a strappy pair of sandals!

Nail that perfect look!

Another trend in the magazines is nail art. However, some of the styles they suggest seem like they can only be created by Picasso. Do they think we have Barbie-sized hands? There’s no WAY I’m attempting most of those complex nail masterpieces! And I don’t have to, thanks to Sally Hansen Nail Strips. These strips are made of real nail polish. All you have to do is stick them on each nail and then file them down to fit perfectly. The strips come in all different colors and patterns. Some are a little more daring than others, like leopard print or butterflies, but other styles are office-worthy creations. A girl in my sorority had the lace-looking strips and they were amazing! They are slightly conservative, yet edgy, not to mention flawless. The best part is that they last ten days without chipping! This is my favorite benefit, in my opinion, since top coat never seems to get along with my nails, and actually ends up making my nails chip even more.

Fun nails are just another awesome way of expressing yourself and adding color to the sometimes bland workday. One look at your happy nails will bring you happiness too! But for now…

Biz, Love, & Fashion,

Danielle Honig

The Un-Mellow Yellow Monday Must-Haves

First off, I want to apologize to all of my proFASHIONals. I have two internships this summer, which has kept me very, very busy. However, I do want to keep up with my blog as much as I can! This brings me to my Monday Must-Haves, which are dedicated to all things yellow.

If you’ve been keeping up with the popular style magazines, you are already fully aware that this summer’s big color is yellow. Move over pastels! This yellow is bright, bold, and fierce. I’m always trying to keep up with the latest fashions, however, sometimes the styles aren’t exactly office-safe. Therefore, it is up to each fashion-minded proFASHIONal to pick and choose how to incorporate the trends with the everyday work ensemble. This post how you can bring this pop of color into your office outfits.

Skinny Belt

Brightening your day, one belt loop at a time.

A skinny yellow belt makes for a fun and preppy accessory. When I look at this Betsey Johnson patent leather belt, I envision a navy blue A-Line sleeveless dress underneath it. Paired with some white wedges, you’d have yourself the perfect nautical outfit! A yellow belt would also look great with coral, white, pink, or blue. It can be worn casually as well with a pair of jeans or khaki shorts. The name of the game is “versatility” when it comes to smart shopping.

Silk Scarf

Fashion sense as smooth as silk.

I’m gonna let you guess what my favorite adjective is that describes this silk scarf. It starts with a “v”…VELVET! Just kidding; the answer is “versatile”. One way to wear this scarf is around your neck. Coupled with a scoop-neck white top, you’ll be looking chic and vibrant. Another way to wear this scarf is as a headband on a hot day. Silk scarves also look great around the strap of a tote bag.  Get this Versace scarf to add some baroque, bold flair to any piece in your wardrobe.

Fun Watch

No matter the hour, it's always sunny!

My last Monday Must-Have is a watch with a pop of yellow. It seems like watches come and go with age phases. When I was little, I wore my plastic Barbie watch every day. I probably got it in a Happy Meal, for all I know. Then, the watch’s greatest enemy emerged; the cell phone. I thought I was too cool to wear the time on my wrist, and instead, whipped out my brand new flip phone to check the hour. However, now that I am 20 years old, I have a new understanding of this device. In the office setting, it is not always appropriate to whip out your latest iPhone to check the time. It is also pretty obvious when you’re glancing across the room at the clock on the wall every five minutes. The wrist watch is not only handy, but a fashion accessory. Of course, I dream of the day when I can own a Movado or Rolex watch, but costume watches can be fun as well. This one from Nordstrom’s is great for summer and still offers that yellow your wardrobe has been craving. Hopefully, every time you glance at your watch, the yellow will make you that much happier that the work day is almost done.

To sum things up, I believe the best way to incorporate yellow into the office is through fun accessories. Don’t be scared to carry a yellow bag into the office, or sport a yellow bangle on your wrist. Like I’ve said before, colors can sway your mood, and wearing yellow is sure to bring you a little more joy into your day. But for now…
Biz, Love, & Fashion,

Danielle Honig

Investment of the Week: E.L.F. Makeup

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Hello proFASHIONals! This week’s investment is everything e.l.f.! Eyes Lips Face is a super cheap makeup line out of the United Kingdom that offers a myriad of eye, lip, and facewear(could you tell from the name?). The brand can be found at several Target department stores as well as on its own website. I am never without this makeup in my go-to business bag. For one, the makeup can withstand the day’s stress and still look great at night. However, the reason why I love this line is that everything is super cheap. Most products are only $1! This is perfect for stocking up and exploration. Before using e.l.f. makeup, I had always wanted to try wearing lipstick on a day-to-day basis, but I wasn’t sure what color would flatter me the most. Being a college student, I barely have enough money to buy a pack of Ramen noodles and I didn’t want to spend too much money on mystery lipstick shades. With e.l.f., I was able to purchase three different lipstick colors to try out at $1 each. Now I use the Pink Lemonade Liquid Lipstick every day!

As I said earlier, e.l.f. makeup makes a great addition to your business go-to bag. Hot summer days are makeups’ worst enemies. I am obsessive about my eyelashes and my Diorshow mascara was my pride and joy. One hot day, I brought my beloved mascara out with me in case I needed a touch up. After that day, it was never the same. The mascara was melty and brushed onto my lashes strangely. I mourned that $27 mascara as if it was my closest relative. With e.l.f. though, if you bring it out with you and it melts, your makeup loss will only be around $1 instead of $27. In my purse I carry an e.l.f. concealer, lipstick, mascara, and compact mirror. Sure, I need to replace them every now and then, but the expense is hardly noticed.

To sum it up, investing in e.l.f. makeup is great for cheap, bulk buys and exploring your beauty options. To buy Eyes Lips Face makeup from the source, visit http://www.eyeslipsface.com. Get smart and get creative with e.l.f.!

But for now…

Biz, Love & Fashion,

Danielle Honig

Investment of the Week: Patent Nude Pumps

Bonjour proFASHIONals! Today I will be focusing on the leg miracle workers, more popularly known as the patent nude pumps. These saviors of style offer functionality at its finest. First off, let’s start with a question: what color doesn’t go with nude? The answer is obvious…NOTHING! Nude shoes can be worn with reds, pinks, whites, blacks, and any other color in the crayon box. For instance, I recently bought a navy pencil skirt and needed shoes to complement the interview look. My nude patent pumps are the perfect piece to my outfit! Along with their chameleonality, (wait this is a real word? I thought I was being innovative! Darn.) nude shoes add a slimming effect to anyone’s legs. I also benefit from this quality beause not only am I sleek, stylish, and stunningly gorgeous(all facts! Really!), but I am also extremely short. I am constantly looking for that slight height boost, and nude pumps can add 5 inches to my stature, along with guising my stumpy legs as long twigs. Now that we’ve discussed why nude is so amazing, let’s talk about why the patent leather pump trumps all. Suede can look nice, but the streets of Boston or New York aren’t exactly the cleanest. A layer of dirt is constantly swimming around your feet as you’re walking. Suede is a little tricky to clean, but patent leather is oh so easy! Wearing patent leather means cleanliness and comfort in the busy cities, which is why I suggest this material for the pump.

Below is just one example of the perfect patent pump. I do not personally own this pair, but  I do own several pairs of Jessica Simpson shoes and I can say that they are made well and are pretty comfortable!

If you would like to purchase this specific pair, go to http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/jessica-simpson-francesca-pump/3180506?origin=category&resultback=364 and enjoy!

To sum it up, patent nude pumps are the perfect addition to your professional wardrobe because of their versatility, slimming effect, and cleaning ease. I will certainly be showcasing a few pairs of these in our Suit to Impress show in the fall! I am not sure if I will be posting tomorrow, but check back anyway! Maybe I will have a surprise in store. Who knows? I don’t even know. But for now…

Biz, Love & Fashion,

Danielle Honig

Couture without the Crunch: Benefits of Consignment Shopping

Good afternoon fellow proFASHIONals! The topic for today is smart consignment shopping and why it works for the perfect business outfit. The theme relates back to Uptown Consignment, another featured brand in Suit to Impress.

Consignment shopping can be compared to shopping for a car. Of course, you can buy a brand new car with a big red ribbon around it–along with a hefty pricetag. The alternative to buying a new car is buying a used car. Now, the term “used” has a bad connotation, especially when talking about clothing. When women think of “used clothing”, they think of dirty, worn-out, and thrifty upon many other negative adjectives. Likewise, personally, when I think of a used car, I invision a sleezy salesman with slicked back hair in a flamboyantly patterned suit.

This is where the third alternative to buying a new car comes in; buying a certified pre-owned car. These vehicles have been barely used and are in pristine condition, according to the specific dealer’s criteria. A passerby would think they are new cars as well, since they show very little wear and tear, if any at all. Similarly, clothing can be “certified pre-owned” too, like the clothing offered in Connecticut’s Uptown Consignment stores. Uptown only accepts “items in style, like new, cleaned, pressed and on hangers”, according to the store’s website. Customers can expect quality brands as well, including Gucci, Lilly Pulitzer, Armani among others.

Consignment shopping is a great way for college students to look expensive at a fraction of the cost. In addition, if you’re looking to make a few dollars, consider selling to Uptown as well! If you’re interested in shopping at Uptown or selling back to the store, check out the website at http://www.uptownconsignment.com/index.html or follow them @uptownconsign

Tomorrow I will discuss my Investment of the Week so tune in! But for now…

Biz, Love & Fashion,

Danielle Honig

Go Eco-Chic with Sheila Odessey Accessories!

The second line featured in Suit to Impress will be Sheila Odessey’s accessory collection. The line debuted in early 2009 and offers eco-friendly totes, clutches, and more. The products are made out of hand-woven recycled plastic which give the accessories a tweed-like appearance. Her collection comes in both neutrals and bold colors, making it easy to find a bag to best fit your ensemble. Celebrities including Penelope Cruz, Cindy Crawford, and Drew Barrymore are all Sheila Odessey owners, and you could be too!

Besides being environmentally friendly, Odessey’s bags themselves are extremely durable according to customer reviews. I think this is an extremely important attribute for the perfect interview bag. Several of the internship interviews I have gone to have been in Boston, and the parking in the city is horrendous. As a result, I’ve found it easier to take the train right into North Station. I’m also a stiletto fiend and refuse to wear a pair of shoes to an interview that are below four inches tall. Heels are not a train’s best friend, so I like to wear sneakers or sandals while on the train. Therefore, I needed a bag that was not only durable, but able to fit my resume folder, touch-up makeup supplies, and a pair of shoes. This Sheila Odessey bag below would fit all of this criteria!

This specific bag would look stunning with my black and white Calvin Klein cardigan! The bag comes in a few other color options, for instance, with dark and light grays replacing the reds. Larger sized bags are also offered in messenger-style, as well as smaller clutches in all different shapes.

Wrapping it all up, Sheila Odessey offers unique bags in simple color palettes to complement any outfit while still boasting durability and style. If you are interested in purchasing a bag, visit her website at http://www.sheilaodessey.com…or you could always attend Suit to Impress in November to purchase one in-person! But for now young proFASHIONals,

Biz, Love & Fashion,

Danielle Honig

Welcome to the Stage…Emma Graham Designs!

I am so excited to have Emma Graham Designs in our show! For those who aren’t familiar with the brand, Emma Graham is a clothing line started by two high school friends, Emma Mahon and Jackie Graham.  As their website states, “Emma Graham Designs boasts versatile, classic pieces with a slightly contemporary edge”.  I completely agree with this description because I think the collection combines the effortless, bold-printed spunk of Lily Pulitzer and the nautical essence of Cape Cod. Many of the pieces encompass vibrant solid prints, but several of the pieces are jazzed up with gemstones and floral prints as well.

Now, you may be thinking that vibrant color is an atypical sight in the office setting. However, being an Art History major, I sincerely believe specific colors evoke specific emotions. Your mood will be swayed by the colors of your outfit. If you’re walking into the office day after day in different shades of gray, your mood in the office will also be different shades of gray. YAWWWWN! Wearing a vibrant color will make you stand out, thus, making you feel more noticed and unique. An interviewer may even remember you as the cute girl in a yellow cardigan, helping you land a job. In a sea of taupes, tans, and neutrals, your pop of coral or turquoise will be a welcomed relief. I’m also not suggesting you walk into the office in a neon green suit and glittery pink pumps. It is an office, not a circus. You only want to make a subtle statement. This Emma Graham dress below exemplifies what I’m talking about to a tee.

As you can see, the dress is mostly of a “nautical navy” hue, but adds a splash of coral on top. I also love this dress because it is multi-functional. The simpleness of the color block style allows the wearer to let the garment become part of her personality.  For instance, if you love costume jewelry, a chunky pearl necklace would add some glam to your outfit. If you’re a cardigan fanatic, a white or ivory cardy will keep you comfortable and covered in this dress. Accessories are a gal’s best friend on the town and at the office, in moderation of course. To sum it up, this dress offers a “look at me statement” appropriate for an interview, work, or a business outing with room for individuality.

Catch your eye? Check out the rest of Emma Graham’s Collection at http://emmagrahamdesigns.com/ or follow them on Twitter @EmmaGrahamDesig

Tomorrow be sure to check back in on another featured brand in Suit to Impress! But for now…

Biz, Love & Fashion,

Danielle Honig