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Friday, December 21, 2012

Friday's Fancies: Holiday Best

This week's Friday's Fancies is all about featuring your holiday best. Why not show your holiday best at your office holiday party?

My office doesn't do anything big and fancy, but if it did, I'd totally wear this.
dress | shoes | bag | necklace
What are you rocking to your company parties?


Disclaimer: Compensated links may be used in this post.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Keeping Organized

We talk a lot about work fashion here at Nine to Five. I mean, obviously. It's my favorite thing to talk about. But I've got another thing I'm passionate about for the workday. Planners. I. Love. Planners.

It's kind of a problem. There are so many options!
1 | 2 | 3
I keep a plain black Moleskine weekly planner. It makes me feel the most chic. What about you? Are you a paper planner or do you keep it all online?

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Mad About Plaid

When I look to how to juggle working, motherhood, blogging, and running a small business out of my home, I turn to Brooke from Lemon Drop Shop. She seems to have mastered the I didn't wash my hair today but it still looks good, I can rock holey jeans with an oxford and statement necklace, and you will never know that I am running on coffee alone. She also knows when to take a step back, do something simpler, or give herself a breather. All things I admire in the women in my life! And that doesn't even begin to share her incredible taste - girl has got an eye for style. So earlier this week, when she posted about plaid, I asked if she would contribute her post here to share with all of you.

+ + + + +

I have a thing for plaid. Even as a girl, I begged for a Ralph Lauren blackwatch purse (my parents were kind enough to oblige--with a little one). So the plaid passion is not new to me, but of late, I have noticed it spreading into areas that I've really not seen before. Classic plaids as cupcake liners, plates and bibs, for example. And I've seen fresh plaids infiltrate the "classic" such as ties, shirts and blazers.
These fabulous finds--vintage and new--were all discovered on Etsy.

Newer trends I'm noticing--and I kind of like it!

Some of my current favorites.


It seems the holidays are the perfect time for warm, rich, cozy plaids, doesn't it?

p.s. Brooke is hosting a giveaway that closes today (12/18). Hurry over and enter.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Double Take

When I saw Pippa Middleton wearing this gorgeous dress, I was basically drooling. I mean honestly. It's a stunning Roksanda Ilincic and I don't even want to know how much it costs. No one tell me.

But I did find this amazing Banana Republic dress that looks shockingly similar. And it's on sale. So hurry up. Grab that.
Have you found any fabulous look for less deals lately?

Disclaimer: Compensated links may be used in this post.

Monday, December 10, 2012

High Low: Cardigans



::: Bright Aztec :::
HIGH: Long Pattern Hooded Cardi from Free People
LOW Ecote Intarsia Cardigain by Urban Outfitters

::: Shades of Grey :::

HIGH: Haute Hippie from Nordstrom 
LOW: Blanket Wrap Cardi from Old Navy

::: Calming Calmel :::
HIGH: Lilly Pulitzer Cabrey Sweater 
LOW: Hinge Scallop Knit Oversized from Nordstrom

::: Stark Contrast :::
HIGH: Alice + Olivia Two Tone from Nordstrom
LOW: Staring at Stars Array Cardigan at Urban Outfitters


It should come as no surprise that I love wrap cardigans as evidenced here. While looking to add to my collection, I was surprised by how many high/low options were easy to spot and oh so similar. Do you embrace the wrap cardigan? Or are you more of a blazer or vest lady? 

Friday, December 7, 2012

Friday's Fancies: Pretty in Plaid

GUYS. I'm kind of obsessed with this week's Friday's Fancies theme. Mostly because I'm pretty obsessed with any and all things plaid. I even have a plaid dress. Which I don't love to admit, because who has a plaid dress? But whatever. I like it. So that means you'd like it too.

Unfortunately, I do not have a plaid dress in this week's picks, but I do have other fun plaid things...
shirt | skirt | pumps | bag | necklace
Nowwww if someone could go pick up that bag for me it'd be great.

No, but really.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Bonus Feature: Morgan

I hope you've had a chance to check out Morgan's first fashion post from the other day. If not, make sure you head over there first!

We've got an extra dose of Morgan this week thanks to her second fabulous outfit! I love the pop of blue in this look.
similar scarf | shirt | similar skirt | similar boots | similar bangles
What's your favorite color to use to make your outfits pop?

Now make sure you go show Morgan some love!

Monday, December 3, 2012

Feature: Morgan from La Chapstick Fanatique

We're back in action with another addition to our feature series! Today we have Morgan of La Chapstick Fanatique, sharing her Nine to Five essentials as well as how she finds inspiration for her work day. Make sure you head on over to her blog to see her fabulous recipes and fantastic photos of her life. And check back on Wednesday for another special treat from Morgan!
similar sweater | pants | similar heels | similar bracelet
:: Describe your work environment from a style perspective (i.e. traditional business professional, stuffy corporate, laid back artsy, kid friendly, etc.)...
I work for an admissions office for a local university so my work environment constantly changes. When I am in the office, I need to make sure I am dressed professionally since I constantly have prospective students and their parents coming in to meet with me. When I am traveling for work I am doing two things -- college fairs and visits to high schools. At college fairs, I definitely need to dress up (sometimes in a suit). For high school visits, since I am constantly in and out of my car and carrying boxes, I need to look presentable but I need to be comfortable and wear clothes I don't mind getting more wear and tear. 

:: What are your nine to five staples (go to brands, or key items)? ::
I feel like I am constantly standing and running around, whether it is giving presentations at the office, standing at college fairs, or going in and out of high schools. I definitely have invested in good quality flats since I started this job. During the winter, I tend to wear my flat boots. 

Also, whenever I see a pair of black skinny pants on sale, I grab them up. They are so versatile -- you can wear them with heels or flats. And I can wear a cardigan with them during the day and throw on a blazer at night for a fair. 

I also tend to lean towards more classic colors and patterns. The majority of my wardrobe is neutrals: black, navy, cream, grey. I also love stripes and polka dots -- they never go out of style. 

My go-to brands tend to be J.Crew and Banana Republic. I also have always loved Nordstrom as far as department stores go. Lately, I have been buying a lot of Calvin Klein because I have found that their dresses fit my body type well. Unfortunately, there are not many places to shop where I live so I usually have to go far for clothes (except for the Gap).

:: Does blogging make you a better employee at your day job? ::
Hmm. I am not sure. I started blogging when I was in a different job and wanted somewhere to be more creative. I get to be more creative in my current job, but I do like that my blog is a way to combine all the other things I love that my job doesn't fulfill.

:: Do you view blogging as a means of recording life, or as the start of an alternative career? ::
I would say it is about recording life. It is just something I do for fun and when it stops being fun, I will stop doing it.

:: Is blogging your main creative outlet, or do you also write novels, run marathons and knit all of your own sweaters? ::
I drive my husband crazy with how often I change hobbies. Our home office is basically a craft room. Right now, with a little help from a co-worker, I am learning to sew. However, I haven't been home much with my job so I haven't had time for that. I also have always enjoyed cooking. If I could do that as a job, I would. Exercising is a great stress reliever. I just started CrossFit a few months ago and love it.

:: How do you find time to do it all? When do you blog? ::
Well, now that I have switched jobs and don't have much time, I have learned that if a blog post doesn't go up, the world won't end. I would rather skip a day of posting than put up something that feels rushed. I usually blog at night and on the weekends but I am constantly thinking up ideas for blog posts throughout the day.

:: Finally, what have you been pinning lately? What are the items you are just dying to add to your work wardrobe? ::
I am actually on the hunt for the perfect black dress that I can wear to the office but can also work for cocktail parties and weddings. I have a black dress that I love but it has seen better days. 

I am also looking to expand my jewelry collection. In college my friends had large jewelry collections so I would always borrow. Now, I am starting to expand my own collection. I absolutely love J. Crew and Kate Spade jewelry but it isn't always budget friendly. I have found some great Etsy shops that have similar items for a fraction of the cost.

And, a girl can never have too many shoes...

If you would like to be featured on Nine to Five, drop me a line! We'd love to have you!

Friday, November 30, 2012

Friday's Fancies: Me

When {AV} first announced the theme for this Friday's Fancies was "Dress Yourself," I have to admit, I was a bit stumped. And then I started combing through my own pinterest style board and finding my go-to items and my wish look items. Here is what I pulled together.



1. Heart Gingham - Is anything better than the perfect J.Crew button down?

2.Wish List - fur vest! This image is from H&M from 2009, so you know it isn't still available. I am on the hunt for the perfect fur vest in a very low price range (its a trend piece, right?). The search continues.

3. Classic - Kate Spade gumdrop studs

4. Go-to - I love Paige Denim. And here is a tip for all the girls out there who are short like me (5'3"). I buy the cropped version, always. They don't bunch under boots, drag with flats, and still look great with heels. Plus, I don't ever have to pay extra for hemming.

5. Wish List - Dooney & Bourke will forever hold my heart. Must get one of these bags someday...

6. Classic - Frye always seems to make the perfect riding boot, don't they?

7. Go-to - another tip for you, or maybe a confession. I wear running socks with arch support under my boots. My feet stay comfortable, cool, and dry all day and no one knows...except now you all do.

Disclaimer: Compensated links may be used in this post.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

First Lady Style

So let me tell you all my secret love: Michelle Obama. Girlfriend has some serious style, a killer set of biceps, a love I definitely admire and we both happen to love the same store.

I love looking at her outfits and recreating them for my work day.
blouse | cardigan | skirt | pumps | belt
Who do you look to for style inspiration?
Disclaimer: Compensated links may be used in this post.

Friday, November 23, 2012

Friday's Fancies: Black Friday

I hope you all had an excellent Thanksgiving yesterday! Today, {av} picked a Black Friday theme for Friday's Fancies. I'm sure the sales out there are ca-razy awesome today, but I'm probably shying away from them. But today, I pulled together my interpretation of an office-appropriate Black Friday outfit.
blazer | pants | blouse | ring | purse
Did you brave the crowds for Black Friday sales? As a former retail sales person, I understand the pain a lot of employees face on days like today. So if you worked today, thank you. Now go have an alcoholic beverage.
Disclaimer: Compensated links may be used in this post.

Friday, November 16, 2012

Friday's Fancies: Autumn Faves

dress | heels | jacket | earrings | bag
Tomato soup just screams fall to me. And this recipe from The Kitchn looks too divine for words. I like bringing soups for lunch because they're easy to eat in a rush. If I'm eating at my desk (which I do far too often), it keeps one hand free to continue checking emails or my company's Twitter account.

And, well, nothing makes me feel sassier than a bright red dress. It's the perfect way to spice things up in the office, but the longer hemline still makes this dress feel office appropriate. And if someone could buy me that camel coat, I'd love you forever.

No, but seriously.

This week, I'm linking up with Friday's Fancies and craving some comforting tomato soup.

What recipe screams fall to you?

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Poppy + Leopard

When I first came across this pin, I knew I needed to track down the outfit details! I am a basics girl, but a pop of color this beautiful might just bring me out of my comfort zone. Originally seen in Redbook, this outfit totaled at nearly $500. But I found classic pieces to pull this look together for even less!





Outfit details:  $60 Banana Republic Scarf | $50 J.Crew Pants {on sale!} | Gap Camel Sweater | Steve Madden Loafers


Find more inspiration on my Nine to Five pinterest board!

Disclaimer: Compensated links may be used in this post.

Monday, November 12, 2012

Work Bags That Work

I feel like my bag is often a black hole. Things go in there and then they sort of disappear. Sometimes forever. Like that time I thought I left my phone at home, but really it was at the bottom of my bag all day. Mah bee.

When it comes to work bags, you need to be smart with space. On any given day, I'm toting along my wallet, my planner, my keys and small wallet for my train pass/work pass, a small cosmetics case, a laptop, my Kindle, my iPhone, a water bottle, and a laptop. There's a lot going on. I like to stay as organized as possible, and right now using my Lo & Sons Savoy tote totally helps out. It's just a plain black, so I'm always on the lookout for another fun bag. There are plenty of options out there...
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
What do you use for work?
Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post.

Friday, November 9, 2012

Friday's Fancies: Bonfire


The last time I sat around a fire pit, I was roasting marshmallows and most likely wearing a beat-up old sweatshirt. So when {AV} gave the challenge this week I was excited to look at this from a new spin. Here are six essentials for any outdoor soiree.


I am linking up to Friday's Fancies and dreaming about a roaring fire this weekend.

How about you?

Disclaimer: compensated links may be used in this post.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Light and Airy

I love checking out Marie Claire for just about everything. Make-up tips, clothes I wish I could buy, career tips. Ya know, everything the working lady needs.

And it's a great place to find great outfit inspiration. I loved the color of this blouse and the great sweater so breezily tied in place. For a casual to business casual office, this outfit is a total yes.

Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Feature: Cally Watts

Welcome to the new and improved Nine to Five! This week we've got the lovely Cally from Wear Love. Cally's got chic New England style  down to a science, and gives us a look at her fabulous work attire. Today she shares with us how she finds inspiration for her work wardrobe. Also, make sure you check out the fabulous Wear Love blog for some more fun treats! Trust us, you're going to love her!


::: Describe your work environment from a style perspective. :::
My work environment is definitely business casual (global education nonprofit). I work with a lot of former teachers who now develop professional development programs for other teachers. On days when we lead different workshops or programs, the dress is more business formal (suits, etc). Otherwise, my colleagues dress is way more laid back. I love fashion and styling outfits, and my favorite type of outfit is business casual. I love dressing up a pair of trousers with a cute sweater or blouse. I think the thought that goes into an outfit affects how you carry yourself, and especially in an office environment I think it’s important to be well put together. It doesn’t mean you have to have the latest trends and wear the most expensive designers, but it’s true that in the business world, the way you dress will leave an impression on people for better or for worse. Certainly there are environments that are more gracious than others. Building a business wardrobe can be super expensive, so I’ve managed to do it in slow increments over time after graduating from college and entering the working world. I’ve also become a PRO at searching for the best deals and knowing the brands that sell trendy articles of clothing without breaking the bank. I also do most of my shopping online. The process can be so overwhelming and exhausting, so I love sharing my shopping advice for people who are looking to save but also want to be current in their wardrobe choices.

::: What are your nine to five staples? :::
Go to brands include Ann Taylor LOFT, Ann Taylor and J.Crew. I’ve also bought really expensive articles of clothing for over ½ the price from daily deal sites like Rue La La, Haute Look, and Gilt City.

Key items for me are a staple pant/trouser. Having a comfortable pair of trousers or a cropped pant that can transcend the seasons. Sizes and fits vary greatly between different brands, so find the brand that fits your body (and wallet!) best and stick with that. LOFT pants and J.Crew Minnie’s do the trick for me.

You can make many versatile outfits out of five items of clothing. Having a few different blouses that can be paired with different sweaters or blazers, etc. can accomplish this! It’s about being creative with what you have and finding different ways to wear it.

::: Does blogging make you a better employee at your day job? :::
Yes and no. I blog and do social on the side for a business called Wear Love, which is a wonderful creative outlet for me. We haven’t focused on the blog much recently, but we’re hoping to jump start it again! It’s definitely a juggling act between my day job and Wear Love - there isn’t much overlap, and neither really enhances the other!

And I never thought I’d do this, but I felt compelled to start a blog of my own called Business Theology. I’m totally fascinated by the business world and how it can be used for good. I blog on things related to vocation, faith, current events in the business world, and my journey of pursuing a business degree and what I learn along the way. I think it definitely does make me a better employee at my day job because I’m more attentive to what’s going on around me. I work in a non-profit, and am currently involved in the organization’s strategic planning process where we are making important decisions for the strategy of the organization moving forward. I’m eager to see how nonprofits handle change and develop strategy, and it’s all relative to the business world. Every day I see things that give me fresh content and ideas for my blog.

::: Do you view blogging as a means of recording life, or as the start of an alternative career? :::
Both! Blogging about nonprofits and businesses - especially those who are committed to making a positive impact in the world - helps me process what I’m learning through my experiences. It also makes me more excited about things to come further down my career path and helps me formulate how my vocation is developing over time, and what areas of business I’m interested in pursuing.

::: Is blogging your main creative outlet, or do you also write novels, run marathons and knit all of your own sweaters? :::
Exercise is a necessary outlet for me, and it’s where I do a lot of my thinking and planning for the blog!

::: How do you find time to do it all? When do you blog? :::
Weekends and evenings! And sometimes if there’s a lull at work...

::: Finally, what have you been pinning lately? What are the items you are just dying to add to your work wardrobe? :::
I have been pinning a lot of fall outfits. I love boots, scarves and sweaters in neutral colors. I love a good, put-together and tailored outfit!

::: Outfit details :::
Calvin Klein dress (similar) // Mia Calvary boots // Target scarf (similar) // H&M trench coat (similar 1 and 2)

Where do you find your classics?

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Wrap Cardigans




You may recognize this image from a recent Nine to Five on my blog but we are shaking things up a bit. I love me some wrap cardigans. They are my favorite all year long, regardless of whether or not I am pregnant. They can be left open, wrapped tightly, keep you snug in the office place. And when the weather gets bitter cold, or rainy like this past week (thank you Sandy!), my favorite is to curl up with pajama pants a chunky wrap sweater and a book in front of the fireplace. However you choose to wear your wrap, here are some of my favorites:






Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Lust List #2

It seems every day there's something new I want in my wardrobe, especially my work wardrobe. Lately I've been searching for the perfect pant, sweater and bootie. And while I wish I could buy every last thing on this list, I sadly do not own a money tree. Though any seeds would be greatly appreciated! Here's what I'm lusting after for fall...
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
What pieces are you hoping to incorporate in your fall wardrobe?


Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Street Style Inspiration

I'm always looking for work-day inspiration when it comes to my outfits; colors, patterns, fabrics. Just something to switch it up. Lucky's Street Style section always has good stuff. And the best part? Lucky shows you where you can buy similar styles.

Like, this color? I die.
street style shot | similar dress























And it's on sale to boot. Thank you, Lucky Magazine. You're always a lifesaver.

What color are you dying to incorporate into your work wardrobe?

Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Lust List #1




Fall work clothes are my favorite. The jewel tones, layers, and classic shapes that conjure images of my own mother getting ready for a speaking engagement. Something about rocking a killer shift dress makes me feel like the incredibly powerful women in the movies, like Helen Hunt in What Women Want. Here are just a few of the items on my fall lust list.

1. Grey Banana Blazer - my favorite // 2. J.Crew Mini Pant // 3. Beet Root Sheath from Banana Republic // 4. Kate Spade Small Harmony Tote // 5. Bauble Bar Studs // 6. Nine West Women's Ambitious Pump



To see more of my fall lust list, check out my Nine to Five Pinterest Board.
What is currently on your fall lust list?



Disclaimer: compensated affiliate links may be used in this post.