Now that I have been working for a few years, I have become pretty good at figuring out office dress codes- from business to super-casual, I’ve worked at offices across the spectrum. Right now, I’m in a fairly casual setting, but wanted to put together a list of items every working girl should own, regardless of your dress code!
- Comfortable flats. Emphasis here on COMFORTABLE. Flats should be a comfy alternative to heels, so you shouldn’t feel like your arches have no support or your toes are squished. Whether you wear jeans or dress pants to work every day, a nice pair of flats in a pretty neutral color will serve you for years.
- Heels in neutral colors. I think having classic pairs of heels in black and nude goes a long way. Even if you don’t wear heels to the office every day, you can wear them with any color and dress them up or down for interviews, client meetings, networking events, etc. You don’t have to blow all your money on an expensive pair, either! As long as you’re comfy and your shoes are in good condition, you are good to go.
- Tote bag. Since I bring my laptop home most nights I didn’t want to carry two bags! Whether you commute by car or by subway, having a good, solid tote bag that holds all of your essentials is key!
- Lunch bag. I bring my lunch to work almost every day- it will save you SO. MUCH. MONEY. I know it seems like those $5-10 lunches don’t add up, but do the math for 4-5 days a week and your monthly expenses suddenly rise. You don’t need to do some elaborate meal prep, either (I personally don’t get meal prepping, I can’t eat the same thing every day!). Just pack leftovers from dinner, and keep ingredients to make quick meals, like sandwiches or wraps, in the fridge for a last-minute lunch. Throw in trail mix, fruit, granola bars, hummus- whatever you want to make your lunch more exciting! If you feel like you have to get out during the day, go for a walk or run an errand during your lunch hour and eat at the office.
- All the extras. I always have an extra phone charger, chapstick, lipstick, snacks, Blister Block, bandaids, ponytail holders, and any other ‘stuff’ I may need throughout the day! You don’t want to be stuck running out to the drugstore or asking around your office if you need something.
What do you take to the office every day? I try to keep everything to a minimum and make sure it all fits in my bag! Getting ready for work every day shouldn’t be complicated, and once you have your system and your list of essentials down, you’ll be good to go!
