My taste for fashion and professional clothing is greatly influenced by my mother.
Each morning, I watched her leave the house to run her medium-sized print ad company, VIRGO INC.
Always tailored; always ladylike.
Category Archives: fashion – professional wardrobe
Add some spring to your step … in fancy shoes! (img) #3PCstyle
Source: Uploaded by user via Pretty on Pinterest
How’s your style? Will it help you reach success? (#3PCstyle)
#3PCstyle details: https://myprettypinkponies.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/3pcstyle.pdf
Join our Twittter/Pinterest conversation with Fashion Designer, Lando Ortega tonight at 6:30 (PT).
Lando provides us with his expert opinion on the following:
- Does fashion or style matter? Why/Why not?
- What kind of impact does styling and fashion have on women?
- How do we dress for who we really are (vs. who we wish to be) – body type, fit, style, fabric, drape…?
Please feel free to interject with follow up questions and thoughts after our guest has responded to the current question. Thank you!!!
3P
New to Twitter chat??? Start here! (Guidelines on participating on Twitter chats)
Resources: Edith Head's How to Dress for Success Sasha Charnin Morrison's Secrets of Stylists: An Insider's Guide To Styling The Stars
The Art of Being Well-dressed: Superfluous or Essential? Both.
Introduction
Some consider the art of dressing, fashion and styling as a superfluous use of one’s time and energy. They’re right. Fashion can be overthought and when combined with the forces of retail marketing, fashion can result in addiction to consumption.
The Hollywood cliché of the teenage girl’s obsession with her image, shopping with her friends and becoming an over-accessorized one dimensional version of her true potential stems from a very real power fashion magazines, shows and other media have on our values. It can be a limiting existence to live life pursuing an impossible opportunity to become another Kardashian sister.
However, if taken seriously without being obsessively vain, the art of dressing becomes a tool for the sophisticated individual. Fashion – or, in the case of our topic, dressing – is akin to a product’s packaging in that it serves several important roles.
We liken the importance of dressing to the importance of a container; both are extensions of the product itself and both help create a product’s appeal, ensure its preservation, and operates as a means of communication between the brand and its target market.
Packaging 101
If you open most books about packaging, you’ll learn that an effective package provides a product with the following:
- Containment
- Protection
- Convenience
- Information
- Marketing
As a professional possessing valuable skills and talent to offer the world you, too, are a product that needs to be packaged appropriately to appeal to the audience you aim to reach.
Think about it. If a product’s packaging didn’t accurately reflect its contents, how would the buyer react upon discovering that the delicious marshmallows he brought home from the store were instead a package of raw tofu???
Being inappropriately ‘packaged’ will result in disappointments.
Proper Packaging: clothing that serves its purpose
So, how exactly do we package ourselves? Glad you asked.
Dressing up or down (or not at all) can be fun. However, when functioning in society, there are responsibilities we must honor before fulfilling our desire to amuse ourselves and do whatever we’d like without regard for rules.
Like a product’s container, our clothing must serve its primary functions before it acts as an extension of our individuality and brand’s message. Typography is useless on a box that doesn’t properly secure the eggs on its way to your kitchen from the grocery store.
In other words your clothes have responsibilites. Your clothing need to fulfill their responsibilities before they can scream, “Louis Vuitton!”.
As a courtesy, we’ve developed a guideline in the form of a checklist to make sure your outfit is at the very least serving its primary purpose.
Checklist:
1. Containment – Does it sufficiently contain and cover its contents?
2. Protection – Is your outfit appropriate for the environment, weather, social context you’ll be wearing it to? (i.e. flip flops outdoors during a snowstorm, etc…)
3. Convenience – Does your clothing allow you to move comfortably and with ease? Does it fit you properly? Will you have difficulty performing at your optimum level in these clothes?
4. Information – What message does your clothing communicate to society as a whole?
5. Marketing – Are you wearing any symbols or styles that will connect with the specific group you wish to appeal to? Will your market be attracted to you given how you are presented?
(To be continued…)
Even heroes have “what-do-I-wear?” probems.
#Supergirl
More on professional wear: Harper Bazaar’s How to Dress for Success article
Source: geeksaresexy.net via Pretty on Pinterest
Quote of the day: #Branding
“Sometimes you have to sacrifice your performance for high heels.”
– Gwen Stefani
– Gwen Stefani
This quote speaks to how essential image is for a person’s success. Gwen Stefani’s style and character is just as much a part of her identity as her musical talent. It wouldn’t be the same if she showed up to “work” lazily dressed in frumpy clothes. That’s not what her boss (fans) pays her for.
In a similar way, professionals are expected to dress according to what their business, industry, leaders, clients, expect of them. It’s part of your identity as a responsible and successful pro.
Do you agree?
We Ponder: What Shoes Would A Very Hip Etiquette Expert Wear??? (Images)
@prettypinkpro What kind of heels would you recommend
to a hip etiquette expert? (Asked by @etiquetteexpertJacqueline Whitmore) Continue reading
to a hip etiquette expert? (Asked by @etiquetteexpertJacqueline Whitmore) Continue reading
"…She wore it like she meant it." (a little background)
My taste for fashion and professional clothing is greatly
influenced by my mother.
influenced by my mother.
Each morning, I watched her leave the house to run her
medium-sized print ad company, VIRGO INC.
medium-sized print ad company, VIRGO INC.
Always tailored; always ladylike.
My mother wore knee-length pencil skirts without the subtle
twist of irony my generation feels compelled to add when they wear classic styles today…subtly mocking
a previous generation known for dainty manners and strings of white pearls.
twist of irony my generation feels compelled to add when they wear classic styles today…subtly mocking
a previous generation known for dainty manners and strings of white pearls.
 |
| #Chanel |
My mother cultivated a taste for classic feminine
silhouettes and she wore it like she meant it…
silhouettes and she wore it like she meant it…
because she did.
Without a word, she entered a room and suddenly all were
aware that they were in the presence of a lady. And, to those who knew of her
her self-made success, it was understood that she ran her company with the
graceful strength of a savvy woman.
aware that they were in the presence of a lady. And, to those who knew of her
her self-made success, it was understood that she ran her company with the
graceful strength of a savvy woman.
My own aesthetic often seems to reference my mother’s style
– pencil skirts, gold bangles, diamond studs and fancy high-heeled shoes. I
adore tailored sheath dresses, A-line skirts and silk blouses. The similarities
between my office style and my mother’s professional wear wasn’t apparent to me
until very recently when I discovered a dusty old photograph from childhood –
there I was in my Catholic school uniform walking on stage to receive an
academic award of some sort wearing bangles too big for my tiny forearms. In
the background was my mom in a classic yet angular A-line dress with geometric
patterns proudly walking with me…When I returned back to the
“present”, I realized that I own and wear a dress with the same
patterns, the same color, a similar silhouette in my own fancy shoes. I
continue to discover as I continue to find old photographs that I wear exactly
the same styles my mother used to wear when she was a young mother and business
woman in her early 20s.
– pencil skirts, gold bangles, diamond studs and fancy high-heeled shoes. I
adore tailored sheath dresses, A-line skirts and silk blouses. The similarities
between my office style and my mother’s professional wear wasn’t apparent to me
until very recently when I discovered a dusty old photograph from childhood –
there I was in my Catholic school uniform walking on stage to receive an
academic award of some sort wearing bangles too big for my tiny forearms. In
the background was my mom in a classic yet angular A-line dress with geometric
patterns proudly walking with me…When I returned back to the
“present”, I realized that I own and wear a dress with the same
patterns, the same color, a similar silhouette in my own fancy shoes. I
continue to discover as I continue to find old photographs that I wear exactly
the same styles my mother used to wear when she was a young mother and business
woman in her early 20s.
=)
P.S.
The outdoors-y and playful and sometimes scruffy pieces of clothing you’d find in my closets are my own addition. My mother would never risk getting scars on her legs to climb trees.
More on professional wear: Harper Bazaar’s How to Dress for Success article
Professional Baggage: A Pretty Pink Ponies Presentation (video)
My holiday wishlist this year : tools to increase productivity while organizing business files. Have you seen Clooney in Up In the Air?. *Hint: beautiful like Grace Kelly, but more utilitarian than a Navy Seal.
As you probably know, professional presentation is a priority for Pretty Pink Ponies.
Professional presentation may seem like a bunch of fluff to some, but how you organize yourself and your business documents and tech tools reflects your ambition, success and how seriously you view yourself as a professional.
Obviously, a young woman who is well-groomed, well-mannered and polished non-verbally communicates that she’s on the ball and manages her life in an effective way. How you store your documents, gadgets and files reflects your ability to handle chaos and prioritize efficiently.
It’s not about being “pretty”, it’s more a matter of having an understanding that you’re a seasoned pro and not a naive rookie.
It has been studied and discussed ad nauseam that we are judged by how we are perceived. You might as well do what you can to ensure your image consistently reiterates your professionalism and effectiveness.
Hope you’re having a great weekend!
Meg
(featuring: Travelteq Trash leather bags, Travelteq iPad case, Travelteq notebooks, Kate Spade, Tory Burch laptop bag, Deisel briefcase, etc…)
Professional Presence Quiz: "What Would You Say?" (presentation)
Pretty Professional Pumps! (slideshow)
Are you in the market for a pair of everyday office shoes?
For the smart, professional, chic woman who can’t live life without style, below are examples of office-appropriate footwear to inspire confidence as you march into the boardroom to present your brilliant ideas to colleagues. (No one will know the secret to your spectacular presentation!) Go get ’em!
https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf
Here are some other things to keep in mind when shopping for shoes:
Shoe anatomy
How to wear tall boots without looking (post-Halloween)
The rest of your wardrobe: The Fundamentals – “Closet Essentials” post
Professional Wardrobe: Creative vs. Traditional fields (images)
This post hopes to de-mystify dress codes in Creative Industries vs. Traditionally-run organizations by providing very broad and simplistic descriptions of each. Obviously, while professionalism is tantamount in all organizations, there are differences in acceptable office wear depending on the organization.**
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| image 1 |
What defines a “creative industry”?
Generally, “creative” companies in various sectors create ‘widgets’ that are unique and based on intellectual inspiration. Creative fields include: advertising, architecture, publishing, software, art, design, fashion, film, music, games, TV, video games, etc….
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| “Judging from her fashion, I would imagine that Kelly sees design as the proper combination of key pieces. Take a look at these more casual ensembles, for example. Each is a much simpler silhouette with a more every day aesthetic, but there is an eye catching quality to each.” |
Since innovation is key, creative workplaces value and reward individuals who can think “outside-the-box” and create inspiration. Usually, employees work within small teams on specific projects. The teams are focused on successfully finishing projects in a profitable and timely fashion.
 |
| Have you seen anything like this on the market? |
Where one might find status symbols of wealth and success in traditional corporations expressed in styles that boast of heritage and a craftsmanship, (i.e. Mont Blanc pens, heirloom jewelry, Rolex watches, cuff links, boarding school affiliated insignia, Hermes scarves, Louis Vuitton luggage, etc…), in fields where human intellect and originality affect products and profit, the more esoteric the referenced aesthetic, the more value the individual is deemed to add. Professionals dress in ways that differentiate themselves to signify their individual brand of creativity.
Interaction among team members and the exchange of ideas are encouraged. As a result, professional dress in these fields often serve as opportunities by which to display creativity, intellect and imagination (image 1). Having a well-defined personal aesthetic becomes shorthand for brilliance and originality. What new idea can this person bring to the group?
The creative individual’s personal “brand” is the value they add to their organization, thus, they wear their brand proudly on their sleeve.
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| Uzo of Nars Cosmetics dictating her own brand of professional-wear. She is a recognized for the originality she contributes to her field. She is paid to think outside the box. Her individuality and creative discoveries inspire others in her field. |
Established business models:
Traditional corporate environments emphasize the organization’s vision, and each employee’s objective is to execute orders given from the top of the chain. There is less importance placed on a person’s uniqueness. If you’re not in position to command orders, you’re not being paid to come up with ideas. Ideas and best practices are provided to you.
Traditional corporate environments emphasize the organization’s vision, and each employee’s objective is to execute orders given from the top of the chain. There is less importance placed on a person’s uniqueness. If you’re not in position to command orders, you’re not being paid to come up with ideas. Ideas and best practices are provided to you.
In other words, each group or functional division operates as one unit (read: everyone dresses alike) carrying out tasks outlined by the head of their departments. A blueprint for how things are done most effectively is in place and provides guidelines for the most efficient way tasks should be carried out.
The focus is on the organization as a whole and the objective is to carry-out processes vital for the organization’s life. Innovative ideas are provided by the organization’s leaders whose experience and expertise provide the group with the best direction to take. Leadership in these organizations are paid to figure things out and make decisions; others are paid to carry them out.
 |
| “Separately, we are organized, results-driven and efficient. Together, we are a well-functioning machine that will ensure your day-to-day operations are run effectively.” |
These environments function well when individuals are consistent, predictable and view themselves as part of the whole. In other words, bold and “outside-the-box” thinking and clothing distract and disrupt the efficiency of a functioning streamlined process. Imagine how disruptive it would be if we introduced a blood cell with fabulously glittered fuschia hotpants and the latest chloe jacket to a group of uniformly efficient red blood cells delivering blood to an organism’s heart. In other words, shocking your team with your originality may debilitate the team’s ability to function and affect the livelihood of the organization as a whole.
 |
| “Our business unit has a process in place that can produce those widgets in half the time. We, as a unit, are important to the organization’s bottom line.” |
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| Each individual piece must fit well and operate under the same cadence to make the machine run smoothly. |
 |
| “Hi, everyone. I look just like my teammates in my collared, button-up shirt, and neutral-colored palette. Also, this practical handbag carries useful tools making me a productive member of the organization.” |
The corporate palette is simple: grays, black and navy suits. From topical view, groups are seen as one. Again, the culture emphasizes efficiency, order and respect for an established blueprint. There is a defined uniform.
 |
| “Give me an assignment, and you can consider it done. I have a Navy Seals background and my goal is to help carry our team forward.” |
While I make broad generalizations to illustrate my points, each office has its own culture and a smart job candidate will observe his/her surroundings to gain an understanding of culture. Until then, prevent being a distraction by erring on the traditional side and observe people to understand what is generally acceptable in your new office environment.
Any healthy and productive organization will incorporate elements of each “type” in varying degrees depending on short-term and long-term goals.
CONCLUSION:
Whether and how individuality is expressed will depend on your field, company and immediate team. Some professional environments invite individual taste to encourage exchange of ideas between team-members. More established companies with operations in place will demand new employees to work according to their guidelines. In both cases, the goal is to be professional, respectful and appropriately dressed. Observation of one’s surroundings is the best way to tell what is considered acceptable in your new environment.
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| image 1 |
(**note: representations of “styles” in the above images are in sterile and generic form to illustrate points more clearly. We understand this is not necessarily an accurate representation of groups as wholes. Again, images are for demonstrative purposes only. Thanks.)
Source(s):
Imaginization: The Art of Creative Management (business models)
Kelly Wearstler article by the NY Post
Harper Bazaar’s How to Dress for Success article
Closet Essentials – what do you wear when you work from home? (images)
I. BEING PUT-TOGETHER AT HOME
I miss writing about office-wear.
I miss wearing office-wear.
If this is your first visit to 3P, I’ll prepare you for what some have called my “vain” side. I’m into wardrobe, shopping and trying to look my best (call me a “girl”). That said, even when I’m at home, I’m somehow more productive when I’ve taken the time to “put myself together. Continuing to “dress for the day” helps keep my priorities in a professional context. Being dressed for business tasks makes sure the television, web, and phone calls don’t distract me from what I need to do that day.
Since my current priorities mostly involve conversations between recruiters and HR people online and by phone, I have to feel comfortable and at ease, without feeling so relaxed I lose my professional sensibility. In other words, bunny slippers are not part of my working-from-home wardrobe. Do you feel like a superstar right when you roll out of bed?
II. STAYING INDOORS
If truly staying indoors, I love wearing soft cotton shirts and pants with that fit well (not just your ol’ one-size-fits all sweatshirt). Monrow brand makes fabulous vintage sweatpants and soft cotton tees that are tailored to fit a young woman’s frame properly. J.Crew is another good place to buy basics (during sales, of course). Although the silhouettes I describe are loose-fitting or relaxed-fitting, they are lounge-wear and not sleep-wear. Pajamas all day are not allowed off-campus past sophomore year.
Soft, light cotton henleys, tees, tanks are definite ‘musts’. The weather in L.A. quickly changes from scorching hot, to rain, to fog in a matter of minutes. Lighter pieces are ideal here because they can be layered easily without adding bulk to your figure.
Dresses are also great for their ease of wear. Dresses allow for efficient ‘wardrobe-styling’. If you have a comfy jersey dress, it cuts your outfit-hunting time in half!
III. RUNNING ERRANDS
When I have to run errands, I like to dress comfortably but, slightly more dressed up than what I consider lounge-wear. I prefer the casual version (or “weekend version“) of office-wear (you never know if you’ll run into your future boss). What I mean is, I wear less tailored versions of button-up dress shirts, or loose-fitting cardigans with denim. I still wear loafers (mocs) and not flip-flops if I can help it.
What I described is a good balance between being put-together, comfortable, and mature (professional). If I run into potential employers, former colleagues or anyone in my professional network, I’d feel confident that I have represented myself in good form even outside of a business setting. At the same time, if I run into my friends, I could join them for lunch without having to change out of the khaki/polo combo or any other outfits that are not appropriate for my age and personality…
CONCLUSION: PREPARATION IS KEY!
It’s important to be put-together if you want to be productive. There’s something about looking mature that makes one behave more responsibly (for most people). If your goal isn’t to sit around like a vegetable on the couch and if you’d like to prevent yourself from falling into a lazy unproductive lull, mentally prepare yourself by dressing, then behaving like the energetic and responsible go-getter that you are!!! Even Kobe has to warm up before games…
What do you wear on the weekends? Do you present yourself as a mature and capable individual?
Stop. Read this post before shopping… (images)
Is that new dress worth the splurge? Let’s see how much cheaper it would cost to try and re-create the same designer look:
We can certainly appreciate the craftsmanship of a well-made designer dress. However, sometimes, it makes very little difference in presentation whether or not what you’re wearing costs over 3x as much as much as a similar ensemble.
The few times high-cost in designer clothing can be worth the price you’re paying:
1) The quality of fabric – cashmere, silk, leather, etc…
2) Service – does the store offer great service (alterations? selection? appointment with qualified and informed stylists? extensive knowledge on what makes the product unique? etc…)?
3) Shoes – Poorly made shoes are just plain bad for you. They’re uncomfortable, they need to be replaced more often than well-made shoes, and they affect the “spring in your step”.
The key thing to remember is that THE WOMAN MAKES THE CLOTHES. In the end, it’s YOU who dictates your presentation, not the garment – irrespective of its price or craftsmanship.
Cheers!
3P
(Sources: experience shopping and buying too many clothes, experience working in clothing stores, pageant-training, conversations with salespeople, etc…)
More on professional wear: Harper Bazaar’s How to Dress for Success article
Dressing for Fall (When "Fall" is actually still Summer) (images)
In other parts of the country, Autumn is the time
of year when you pull light sweaters out of storage anticipating a drop in
temperature.
of year when you pull light sweaters out of storage anticipating a drop in
temperature.
It’s already mid-September, and it’s still pretty
warm out in SoCal. What does a girl do to prepare for the frigid a/c
indoors while keeping cool and fresh outdoors?
warm out in SoCal. What does a girl do to prepare for the frigid a/c
indoors while keeping cool and fresh outdoors?
Layer a soft blouse underneath a light sweater.
Keeping a light cardigan at the office at all times
is always a smart move. It’s a great “band-aid” for unexpected
cold weather or if you drop lunch on your blouse.
is always a smart move. It’s a great “band-aid” for unexpected
cold weather or if you drop lunch on your blouse.
That said, when it’s warm out, a light blouse
that’ll keep your body cool and comfortable works well underneath a light
sweater. Below are a couple of good examples of light bouses for your professional wardrobe to take you through the change in temperature without missing a beat.
that’ll keep your body cool and comfortable works well underneath a light
sweater. Below are a couple of good examples of light bouses for your professional wardrobe to take you through the change in temperature without missing a beat.
The burn oranges and warm browns are still light
enough to wear with your warm-weather palettes. The cognac, light brown and butterscotch leather will keep you looking polished as you introduce deeper fall colors with your suits.
enough to wear with your warm-weather palettes. The cognac, light brown and butterscotch leather will keep you looking polished as you introduce deeper fall colors with your suits.
People Profile: Rachel Roy (video)
When we encounter a woman we can classify as a successful, balanced go-getter, we love to take a look at her and how she carries herself.
The lovely American fashion designer was born in California to a Dutch mother and an Indian father.
Wikipedia tells us that the designer got her start by working part-time at a retail store, Contempo Casuals, at the age of 14…Her trajectory spiked exponentially upward from there…
The official YouTube channel for fashion designer Rachel Roy.
Rachel Roy’s designs capture a sense of lady-like glamour with a subtle feminine edge. With knee-length pencil skirts and blouses, the label’s aesthetic catches the eye with a familiar and classic silhouette. However, by combining unusual colors, patterns and fabrics, the lady-like silhouette becomes modern. Cool.
Here’s her take on formal-wear:
She’s pretty and girly…
…yet bold, independent and sophisticated.
Rachel Roy’s style is one a career-focused young woman can wear with confidence (without having to dress like the boys).
3P
. . .
Careerwear: pre-Fall ’11 (slideshow)
If you’ve been following our blog since birth (April), you probably understand that our main audience is the “profession-elle” if you will (read: girls who work Full-time jobs for a living). Hence, a lot of the “fashion” on our sight serves the girl in the workforce.
We have nothing against trendy, teenage styles, however, there are too many blogs on the web that cater to the “trendy”. Classic-styled girls can be “bloggers”, too!
Cliff’s Notes:
We have nothing against trendy, teenage styles, however, there are too many blogs on the web that cater to the “trendy”. Classic-styled girls can be “bloggers”, too!
Secondly, the corporate woman might be as stylish as the trend-setting teen, but her style needs to be a bit more restrained and professionally-appropriate.
One way of expressing individuality in a professional environment is with color. Greys, Navies and Beiges aren’t the only colors welcome in Corporate America. However, these neutrals are necessary “anchors” for brighter pops of color (which, left on their own would be too loud and distracting).
Corporate-Cathy you are not! Differentiate yourself.
This fall, we see a lot of color-blocking. Reds and oranges grounded by black, stone, and gray is a popular palette (below).
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| Michael Kors |
A solid deep fuschia dress (a la Zac Posen) conveys power and femininity in a polished way (below):
Or, what about a bright orange sheath to take you from bright summer months to autumn (below)?
Don’t like sleeveless? How about a shift dress in pumpkin (below)?
PRE-FALL/TRANSITIONAL PIECES
COLORS: ORANGE, RED
ANCHOR COLORS: STONE, GRAY, BLACK
ESSENCE: AUTHENTIC, SOPHISTICATED, INTELLIGENT, CHARISMATIC, CONFIDENT, CHIC, PROFESSIONAL, SELF-ASSURED, FEMININE, SUCCESSFUL, GO-GETTER, RELEVANT…ETC…
Cliff’s Notes:
hairstyle GUIdelines (images + interview)
 |
| ** |
PPP: Gui! [air kisses on both cheeks]
Gui: Make yourself comfortable. I’m just gonna call my sister back .
Would you like some champagne or white wine?
PPP: No thanks, honey. So, you’ve been busy styling Harris Pilton. Anything interesting you’d like to talk about?
G: I love Harris Pilton. She’s a sweetheart and very private. I’m not at liberty to divulge much else.
3P: Fair enough. What we really want to know are some tips to looking fabulous. You’ve done hair for celebrities, TV show projects, music videos and as well as being the primary personal hair stylist for musicians on tour…For the everyday corporate rockstar who can’t wear a fabulous pink Afro-puff to the office, what are some tips to always looking chic without looking out of place?
GUI SAYS:
1. Get haircuts regularly – Fresh haircuts and color make as big of an impact as a facelift. Think about it. Your hair frames your face. When dark conservative suits create uniformity in the workplace, one’s haircut can subtly convey your own professional brand and individuality.
2. Communicate clearly with your stylist – bring magazine clippings with images of women whose hairstyles you like…it’s important that the model’s face shape, skin tone and hair texture are similar to yours. Don’t expect a stylist to turn your mullet into Slash’s Rockin’ ‘do.
3. Consider your lifestyle when choosing a style – If your daily life involves wearing a construction hat, it’s not practical to ask for a bleached and overly-coiffed ‘do (a la Gwen Stefani) especially if you can’t maintain weekly root touch ups.
3P: Great tips, Gui. Thank you for your expert advice. Xoxoxoxo.
 |
**note: Gui’s statements were communicated with a sexy Brazilian accent. Can’t forget that** |
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
related articles:
“10 ways to make more time for yourself” by chronicbabe.com
“Nice girl = Bad Networker” (Thanks to Connected Life)
Rock them boots, gurrrl! (slideshow)
Darlings, Below are fantastic ways to wear tall boots without looking like a walking parody of a dominatrix.
Tall boots need not be synonymous with “night life”…Observe the refreshing take on the tall boot below.
https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf
Taste. Make yours good.
princess diary: blogging & whining (images)
Finding and expressing one’s “voice” succintly is tough enough. It becomes even more difficult when expressing your voice on a new medium… while learning how to communicate using said medium.
” waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!!! ”
(this rant continues…)
I’m not just sharpening my pencil and erasing words…I’ve personally spent day and night researching other sites, reading pounds and pounds of books about HTML, CSS, blogging, design, art, etc…, interviewing programmers and bloggers, and updating pre-formatted templates by learning how to read CSS and HTML codes (not my native language).
Before this project, I had no idea what “user experience” technically meant. Let’s just say I have much more respect for programmers and what they do to make sites “legible” and “pretty” to a wide range of people.
With all that whining (and hard work), I now consider myself ‘princess of blogging’, and her majesty needs new outfits for her new role.
option 1 (real-life): royal blue sheath dress
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||||||
| Office-appropriate version (Reiss) |
The royal blue sheath dress above is a beautiful option for running
around town during the workday. We recently discovered the line “Reiss”, an actual favorite of Princess Kate Middleton’s. The tailored cut makes this dress flattering and feminine preventing that I’m-desperately-trying-to-look-older-and-more-professional “look” that I used to rock ten years ago (good bye, ugly suits!).
around town during the workday. We recently discovered the line “Reiss”, an actual favorite of Princess Kate Middleton’s. The tailored cut makes this dress flattering and feminine preventing that I’m-desperately-trying-to-look-older-and-more-professional “look” that I used to rock ten years ago (good bye, ugly suits!).
This dress works [pun unintended] at the office (+ blazer), after work get-togethers, or (if he’s lucky) during your date this weekend (- pumps; + strappy sandals).
option 2 (wishful-thinking): black formal gown
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| Princess Letzia of Spain & Co. |
option 2 (real-life): all-purpose black dress
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| image: Reiss |
The
cliched “Little Black Dress” is a cliche because it is undeniably a “must-have” piece that belongs in every woman’s closet. A flattering black dress,
or as pop-cultural fashion-themed shows call it, “the LBD” [enter Heidi
Klum], is the Swiss-army knife of your dress repertoire. Its “look” can
vary greatly just by updating the key accessories one wears with it:
shoes, handbag, jewelry, date, etc…If dresses are the solution to rushing out of the house with no time to pair separates, the “LBD” is the optimal solution for busy go-getters. Why do you think busy New Yorkers like to wear black? Efficiency.
cliched “Little Black Dress” is a cliche because it is undeniably a “must-have” piece that belongs in every woman’s closet. A flattering black dress,
or as pop-cultural fashion-themed shows call it, “the LBD” [enter Heidi
Klum], is the Swiss-army knife of your dress repertoire. Its “look” can
vary greatly just by updating the key accessories one wears with it:
shoes, handbag, jewelry, date, etc…If dresses are the solution to rushing out of the house with no time to pair separates, the “LBD” is the optimal solution for busy go-getters. Why do you think busy New Yorkers like to wear black? Efficiency.
What
jet-setting princess wouldn’t want to add an element of efficiency to
her dressing ritual for the [unlikely] days she’s running [a tad bit] late?
jet-setting princess wouldn’t want to add an element of efficiency to
her dressing ritual for the [unlikely] days she’s running [a tad bit] late?
option 3 (fantasy): date with a prince
option 3 (real-life): dinner date
Another
essential item for socializing princesses (whether imaginary or
legendary) is a classic cocktail dress. The dress above is another design by Reiss
which can be worn to a dinner date or dinner-party. The classic A-line
is a feminine and traditional choice creating a ladylike image (a la
our favorite Spanish princess). It’s feminine, elegant, flattering and efficient (see “option 2” above).
essential item for socializing princesses (whether imaginary or
legendary) is a classic cocktail dress. The dress above is another design by Reiss
which can be worn to a dinner date or dinner-party. The classic A-line
is a feminine and traditional choice creating a ladylike image (a la
our favorite Spanish princess). It’s feminine, elegant, flattering and efficient (see “option 2” above).
In conclusion, during those moments when you want to reflect regal elegance, stay towards the less ostentatious side of the frilly / not-frilly continuum.
 |
| Fallen Princesses Exhibition |
Adding to Basics (images)
i was running an errand at my favorite stationery store and had to park my car around the corner. i was drawn to the interesting aesthetic of a particular store window i hadn’t seen before, and decided to stop in…
although the style seemed familiar (think: American Apparel), the style of the brand was a bit edgier…more chic. the store was filled with soft cotton basics in solid colors albeit cut in trendier styles.
while the pieces looked like items one can find in other stores in L.A., the interesting interior design and paintings on the shelves made me curious. i was greeted by the boutique’s lovely host, miss ashley. ashley gave me the low-down on the store’s genesis and eventually introduced me to the owner and his family (thanks, ash).
i write about this to point out how easily one can create various “looks” starting with “basic pieces”. coming straight from a corporate setting, i walked into the store wearing: a silk cami + sweater, black slacks, pearls, and a pair of black pumps. by updating my top (read: throwing something over my cami), i created various styles…with just one piece.
+ classic shirt in navy
+ striped sweater
+ fine cotton hoodie
+ classic shirt + hat
+ light cotton tank
+ kate moss screenprint tank
1. basics + classic shirt in navy
2. basics + striped sweater
3. basics + fine cotton hoodie
4. basics + classic shirt + hat
5. basics + light cotton tank
6. basics + kate moss screenprint tank
thank you jessy, mariam, joy and ashley!!! this is one of our favorite new stores!!
stores that offer alterations:
Save time by considering the option of getting your new slacks hemmed by the store from which they were purchased. Usually, having your slacks hemmed by the store will cost you less money and time than taking them to a tailor…
Ranges between 7 to 15 dollars:
J.Crew
Banana Republic
Nordstrom
Club Monaco
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Closet Essentials – Part II. Checklist (images)
Checklist/tools:
“Business Casual”:
What a ‘worker’ wears in an office setting and other professional environments – vs. workers at a construction site – when formality isn’t required etc..
 |
| 1. basic white button up + closed toe pumps 2. the sheath dress 3. khakis + dark closed-to pumps 4. blouse + pencil skirt 5. separates 6. basic white shirt + solid black A-Line skirt |
Your boss might appreciate your new Bottega Veneta bag, however, he/she cares more about how well you do your job and whether or not you can identify and respect office culture. While some might have the luxury of expressing their unique individuality (including taking their pets to the office) at their workplace, many people start at an entry-level position in a large, secure company for health benefits, a steady stream of income, mobility and other smart reasons. I can’t speak for all offices around the world, however, there’s a universal guideline to what is considered an “appropriate” and professional wardrobe. Again, it would be prudent to start with basics and observe your particular company and office culture and deviate from the basics once you’ve learned what is ‘acceptable’ at your particular office. Once you’ve got the basics down and earned a stripe or two, then perhaps you can add some “flair”. When you’re at the top, you can wear and make people wear whatever you want.
Here are some common sense considerations that A LOT of professionals are too smart/busy/ lazy to think about:
- fit, proportion, fabric, color(s)
- clean?
- stains?
- wrinkled?
- distracting?
- comfortable?
- appropriate undergarments?
represent your maturity, respect and professionalism at the office. dressing like like you know your industry will set the tone for yourself as well as those around you. carpe diem!
More on professional wear: Harper Bazaar’s How to Dress for Success article
Closet Essentials – Part II. (images)
(…continues from Closet Essentials – Part I.)
Part II. Safety Needs per Maslow
Part II. Safety Needs per Maslow
Let’s put “safety needs” in a more accessible context. Who protects us, provides us with law and order, and decides what we can and can’t do in society if we don’t want to be imprisoned (“limits”)? Yes…the state. What does this governing body expect in return? Responsible citizenship. What does that mean? It means we have to hold jobs and pay taxes.
Now, how do we hold a job? In other words, what will we wear to work from 9-5 in a typical entry-level position within a corporation? “Part II.” provides insight to a category is referred to as “business casual” (note: this is for a hypothetical setting in a generic corporation — yes, I understand creative fields, etc…have different dress codes).
Part II. The Professional
Objective: fit into the company’s culture without offending one’s boss and being seen as a professional. That’s the only image we need at the office: a professional. Your goal is to impress your boss with the great job you’re doing. Anything other motivations are irrelevant and will have to be dropped.
Tools: company uniform, closed-toe shoes, nothing distracting and nothing that invites attention that delineates us from our job duty.
I know this doesn’t sound like the glamorous vision we had in mind as freshmen in college and we all thought we would wear fancy couture to the office everyday a la “Devil Wears Prada”, however, there are plenty other occasions where you can wear your sexy and flashy outfits. And, if your priority is to keep your job (vs. become the office homecoming queen), then we must observe and follow guidelines. (Read: you are not Carrie Bradshaw and there are no paparazzi in the office for whom you need wear your vintage Halston dress.
Just another day in Corporate LA
Friends & Family discount
Stylish sheath and summer dresses (Donna Ricco)
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
From: “Donna Ricco”
Sender: “Donna Ricco”
Date: Mon, 18 Jul 2011 12:30:54 -0400
To: prettypinkponies
ReplyTo: “Donna Ricco”
Subject: Friends & Family Event Starts Now
|
prettypinkponies: pleased w/ paltrow’s prim & proper ‘pepper potts’ (images)
Rewatched Iron Man 2 this evening…One of my favorite movies
ever. I love Tony Stark’s
over-the-top personality, cool toys, his business savvy, sexy lifestyle and
most of all…his trusted companion, Pepper Potts.
ever. I love Tony Stark’s
over-the-top personality, cool toys, his business savvy, sexy lifestyle and
most of all…his trusted companion, Pepper Potts.
Potts has been a misunderstood character according to many
write-ups. Some see Potts’ old
school prim & proper style, professional background as Stark Industries’
head administrative assistant and poise demeanor as the antithesis to the empowered
‘go-getter’ modern-day women aspire to be. However, Potts’ delicate, prissy “sorority-girl” image is
misleading. Though her reserved
and polished style is a contrast to Tony Stark’s irreverent bravado, Stark eventually chooses her to run Stark Industries as CEO. Why? Because she’s trustworthy, discreet, professional, loyal and
smart. What Potts leaves unsaid
speaks to her experience and ability to remain composed. She is more knowledgeable and capable than what one sees at first glance. Potts exemplifies how one need not be
in pantsuits and possess such an intimidating or masculine persona to be effective…So how does one take cue from Potts and dress professional,
ladylike, and smart?
Let’s examine Miss Virginia “Pepper” Potts’ wardrobe, shall we?
write-ups. Some see Potts’ old
school prim & proper style, professional background as Stark Industries’
head administrative assistant and poise demeanor as the antithesis to the empowered
‘go-getter’ modern-day women aspire to be. However, Potts’ delicate, prissy “sorority-girl” image is
misleading. Though her reserved
and polished style is a contrast to Tony Stark’s irreverent bravado, Stark eventually chooses her to run Stark Industries as CEO. Why? Because she’s trustworthy, discreet, professional, loyal and
smart. What Potts leaves unsaid
speaks to her experience and ability to remain composed. She is more knowledgeable and capable than what one sees at first glance. Potts exemplifies how one need not be
in pantsuits and possess such an intimidating or masculine persona to be effective…So how does one take cue from Potts and dress professional,
ladylike, and smart?
Let’s examine Miss Virginia “Pepper” Potts’ wardrobe, shall we?
structured dresses:
tailored and simple pantsuits in neutral colors
high-collar sheath dresses
trousers with long, clean lines:
ladylike silhouettes in understated tones
With her killer Pilates-legs, subtle but snide comments and longevity at Stark Industries, it’d be hard to imaging Pepper Potts without the guile and brawn necessary to keep Tony in line. With her wardrobe’s clean lines, tailored cuts, traditional monochromatic palette (a la Theory) and platform-heeled pumps (red soles), Potts hints at understated capabilities..Perhaps, there’s a sense of strength she doesn’t feel necessary to wear on her sleeve. In any case, she clearly demonstrates professionalism 101: an awareness of what image her role requires when seen by the public. Very nice brand-management, Miss Potts!
Other link(s):
How to wear tall boots without looking like you’re dressed for Halloween
The Future of Gen Y
Predictions on the Future of Gen Y:
Here are three predictions:
1. We will expand and lengthen the definition of “entry-level.”
Because Gen Ys are extending the onset of adulthood into the mid-twenties or even age 30, I think companies will follow suit. I believe we will see expanded internship programs (perhaps lasting several years beyond college), more alumni career resources being offered by universities and longer rotational programs — perhaps moving from two years to three or four.
2. Titles and career paths will become more customizable.
According to MTV’s 2010 Millennial Edge survey, 81 percent of Millennials agree with the statement, “I am always expressing myself in different ways.” We’ve already seen this attitude in the workplace with Gen Ys seeking careers they are passionate about and not hesitating to leave jobs that don’t feel fulfilling. Over the next decade, I predict that companies will respond with more customizable titles, rotational programs, work schedules and other opportunities for employees to express themselves at work.
3. “Standard” business communication will evolve.
We’ve already seen business become much more casual. When was the last time you called a colleague or client “Mr.” or “Ms.” or wrote a formal business letter? While I firmly believe that good grammar and face-to-face interaction should never go away, it’s clear we are headed for more text message speak (“LOL” was just added to the Oxford English Dictionary, after all) and more virtual communication. Because human interaction is still incredibly important, my belief is that the technology will improve so that even virtual communications feel personal, such as better video chatting software and meeting technology such as Cisco telepresence.
What predictions do you have for the way Gen Y will affect the workplace? Please share!
(by L. Pollack/ThinPinkLine)
@ Nars book-signing (video)
Thank you for the rockstar treatment…
and the illuminating info about Nars’ trajectory to being the biggest brand in make-up!
Xoxoxoxo,
myprettypinkponies.Blogspot.com
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Uzo:
More on Francois Nars’ accomplice, Uzo:
Vogue article (June ’11)
Youtube clip (July ’11)
L.A. Times.com
Closet Essentials – "business casual" (images)
Checklist/tools:
“Business Casual”:
What a ‘worker’ wears in an office setting and other professional environments – vs. workers at a construction site – when formality isn’t required etc..
|
| 1. basic white button up + closed toe pumps 2. the sheath dress 3. khakis + dark closed-to pumps 4. blouse + pencil skirt 5. separates 6. basic white shirt + solid black A-Line skirt |
Your boss might appreciate your new Bottega Veneta bag, however, he/she cares more about how well you do your job and whether or not you can identify and respect office culture. While some might have the luxury of expressing their unique individuality (including taking their pets to the office) at their workplace, many people start at an entry-level position in a large, secure company for health benefits, a steady stream of income, mobility and other smart reasons. I can’t speak for all offices around the world, however, there’s a universal guideline to what is considered an “appropriate” and professional wardrobe. Again, it would be prudent to start with basics and observe your particular company and office culture and deviate from the basics once you’ve learned what is ‘acceptable’ at your particular office. Once you’ve got the basics down and earned a stripe or two, then perhaps you can add some “flair”. When you’re at the top, you can wear and make people wear whatever you want. Here are some common sense considerations that A LOT of professionals are too smart/busy/ lazy to think about:
- fit, proportion, fabric, color(s)
- clean?
- stains?
- wrinkled?
- distracting?
- comfortable?
- appropriate undergarments?
represent your maturity, respect and professionalism at the office. dressing like like you know your industry will set the tone for yourself as well as those around you. carpe diem!
Pretty Pink Ponies 
