2010 made it too easy to wear your comfy jeans and slouchy sweaters to work every day, but this is the time of year for fresh starts — and you’re tired of looking like the intern, right? As part of your new year’s game plan to climb that corporate ladder, we say start by dressing the part — and that doesn’t mean wearing boring sweater sets and stuffy button-downs. Here are a few wardrobe staples to help you look professional — and hip.
1. Skirt
Spring is going to be all about the longer hem line. Pair this flouncy number with camis or sweaters.
ASOS white calf-length midi skirt, $78, www.asos.com
2. Trousers
Until you can afford one of Celine’s “Five Perfect Trousers,” try this chic pair.
Fletcher by Lyell pleated pant, $78, www.urbanoutfitters.com
3. Tailored shorts
Rotate your everyday jeans for one of the seasons must-haves: shorts. They’re more sophisticated than your go-to denim, but still say, “Hell yeah, I’ll hit that concert until 2 a.m. on a school night.”
Club Monaco, $89, www.clubmonaco.com
4. Heels
Have you ever noticed that tall people always seem to get respect in the workforce? With wedge booties you will, too. These shoes work just as well with skirts as they do with pants — and more importantly, they’re actually comfy.
Elizabeth and James “Honey” peep-toe wedges, $395, www.bloomingdales.com
5. Cardigan
You can still wear your favorite worn-in T-shirt to work, just as long as it’s under a classy cardi. Also, throw one over your favorite printed dress and add a belt around the outfit for a sophisticated boho look.
Madewell memento cardigan, $68, www.madewell.com
6. Statement jewelry
You’ll never look or feel like an office drone when you personalize your outfit with cool jewelry like Pamela Love’s dart pendant.
Pamela Love dart necklace, $165, www.shopbop.com
