What to Wear to a Professional Interview

One question I get asked over and over is what to wear to a job interview for a corporate / professional setting. Since it is almost graduation season- and many young women are interviewing for their first professional / office job- now seemed like the perfect time to do a post with style tips for dressing for an interview.

Blazer // Heels // Handbag // Watch // Bracelets (20% off with code LegalLee) // Lipstick (shade is "Anita")

What to Wear to a Professional Interview:

1. Suit Separates

 This is pretty straight forward; for a professional interview wear a suit. Find a blazer that you love (these are my favorite affordable blazers) and then get and wear the matching skirt, dress, or pants (whichever you feel most comfortable in). An interview is not the time to be bold, fashion wise, so stick with black, navy or dark gray.

2. Functional Handbag

For an interview you want to be prepared for anything the day may bring at you. I always recommend having a second copy of your resume, a granola bar, gum, band-aids, safety pins (you never know!), a pair of flats if you are commuting or walking around a lot, and a bottle of water. To fit all of this stuff, you need a handbag that is actually functional - no cute little clutches! I highly recommend the York tote because it is spacious, has a laptop compartment with a zip top, (perfect to throw a resume in to keep it safe), and it is simple & classic in it's look.

3. Comfortable Heels

I cannot emphasis enough the importance of comfortable heels. Not only will you be happy and more comfortable but it sends a message that you prioritize functionality such that your 'style' will not detract from the work your future employer needs you to do. As pretty as stilettos are, they don't exude practicality and the ability to run around and get your job done. If you haven't read my guide to the best heels for work be sure to check that out. Last thing- I recommend a pointed toe over a round toe as it gives off an older, more professional vibe. 

4. A Watch

So many of us rely on our cell phones now (.. I am so guilty of that) but for an interview, it looks professional to have a watch on. Plus, if you're phone dies while you're on route to your interview (or interviews) you're covered.

5. Simple Jewelry

Some people will even advise that you should wear no jewelry to an interview. I think that is an outdated recommendation, and that in today's job market it is more than acceptable to wear some simple jewelry - just don't go over board. I would recommend a simple pendant necklace or a bracelet.

Let me know if you have any questions! If you are interviewing for a job this season, good luck!!! I am sending you postive vibes through the interwebs :)

Shop My Outfit:  

linking up with: mix it mondays // hello monday // #howispring // creative mondays

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A Feminine Suit

 Blazer // Skirt // Heels (SO comfortable) // Crossbody Bag (under $30!) // Lipstick (in "wonderland")

You may remember this suit from my Nordstrom Sale - Product Review post. I have already worn this CeCe suit a few times since then, and receive compliments every time I wear it! The reason I think it is so well-received is that it strikes the perfect balance of professional & stylish/youthful.

The bow detailing adds a hint of femininity. I also love the unique slight a-line cut of the skirt. So few suits diverge from the pencil skirt style, that it was nice to add something different to my wear-to-work wardrobe. 

This Forever 21 crossbody was *such* a great purchase! I use it probably once a week and it cost less than $30! The style reminds me of the famous Chloe "Drew" (but with a price tag that is actually affordable!)

Please forgive my hair in these photos - the humidity has been crazy here in Vancouver this week and I certainly have had the "mane" to prove it. Side note: one of my childhood nicknames was "Simba" lol. 

In other news, I am flying back to the east coast later today to spend a week with my family. I am so, so, excited to eat my parents home cooking, squish my nieces & nephews, & relax with friends by the pool. Follow along on instagram to keep up with my adventures; and like me on facebook to see videos - I will try to post at least one live video while I am away.

linking up with: WW // casual friday // fabulous friday // friday faves // flashback fashion friday 

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My #NSale Purchases - with Honest Product Reviews & Try-On Photos

I am so excited to (finally) share with you my purchases from this year's #NSale. There are only TWO DAYS left to shop the sale, so be sure to check out these items and place your orders STAT!

While general #NSale roundups are great, I wanted to go more in depth and actually provide you guys with reviews of the items I got; sizing tips, notes about the fabric and my thoughts on the item. As a lawyer I couldn't help but structure this by way of me giving you my verdict on each item #lawyerproblems. Without any further ado, here goes: 

Outfit One: Theory Dress

YOU. GUYS. This dress is ah-mazing. It 1000% lives up to the hype. This is my first Theory purchase; though I have been eyeing their suits since the day I stepped foot into law school. I've been hesitant to pull the trigger because of the price tags, but with the dress coming in at under $200, I had to do it. 

Quality: This dress is incredibly well made - the stitching and tailoring are perfect - well worth the investment. 

Size: This fits true-to-size (I am wearing a size 6)

Verdict: 10/10. This is EASILY my favorite score from the sale. KEEPING.

Outfit 2: CeCe Tweed Suit Skirt & CeCe Tweed Suit Jacket

 

Finding suits that are professional but feminine can be very challenging. That's why, when I saw this suit in the sale, I was positively giddy. Overall, I like this.

Quality: The quality is not as great as I would have expected. The lining seems cheap and (for some incredibly odd reason) its is also BRIGHT blue. You can see a hint of it if you look at my sleeve in the last photo. That said, for the price, the suit is still pretty good. I LOVE the slight a-line cut of the skirt - such a refreshing change from the classic pencil skirt (and one that is far more flattering on my body type). I also like that the hem of the skirt is slightly shorter than I am used to finding (but still work appropriate).

Size: This fits just a touch on the large size- I would size down if you are in-between sizes, otherwise stick with your usual size. (I am wearing a size 4).

Verdict: 7.5/10. Despite the mediocre quality, the unique design and flattering fit of this suit make it worth it. KEEPING.

Outfit 3: BP Open Front Cardigan // Zella Leggings // Tory Burch Riding Boots

 

I just have to say this outfit is making me crave fall something fierce. PUMPKIN SPICE ALL THE THINGS. Okay, now that that is out of my system, let me review each item here in turn.

BP Open Front Cardigan:

Quality: Meh. Not much to report. It is neither noticeably good or bad. It is the toast of the clothing world.

Size: Definitely fits large. Size down at least one size (I am wearing a size small, and would have actually preferred an XS)

Verdict: 4/10. This sweater had SO much hype in the fashion blogging world, and to be honest I don't see why. I found the fit to actually be very unflattering - as opposed to a standard loose fit I found it a bit 'bubbled' in the hip area which made my hips (a problem area) appear even larger. RETURNING.

Zella Leggings 

Quality: In stark contrast to the above, these leggings are SO worth the hype. I love the material - just enough stretch to be comfortable but still suck you in nicely. They also sit high on the waist (that perfect sweet spot right underneath your belly button) and are thus perfect in my mind. That said, I do still swear by the Victoria's Secret VSX leggings as the best leggings of all time but these are now my definite second favorite.

Size: Fits a bit large. Size down if you are between sizes (or if you want a really tight fit). I am wearing size small. 

Verdict: 8/10. KEEPING.

Tory Burch Riding Boots

Quality: Perfection. I love that these are a smooth leather as opposed to last years 'cobbled' TB boots. The gold emblem is the perfect size and adds just a touch of sparkle. I will be living in these this fall; no question.

Size: Fits true to size or a bit small. I am wearing a 9.5 and I range between a 9 and a 9.5. I also have large calves and these have the perfect amount of 'just a touch' of space for me, so that is great (please note this are the standard not wide calf version). What that means though, is that if you have small calves this may end up being too 'clunky' on you.  

Verdict: 9/10. KEEPING.

Outfit 4: Halogen Belted Pink Top // Zella Leggings // Vince Camuto Lace-Up Heels

Let me just say upfront that I am not a fan of this outfit! I had very high hopes for this top, thinking it would be flattering but comfortable- perfect for fall. But, I don't like it in person sadly!

Halogen Belted Pink Top

 

Quality: So-So. The color of the fabric is beautiful and the material is not too thick and not too thin (yay for not being see through). I don't like the flimsy quality of the tie around the waist though (*though this issue can be addressed as you can see below)

Size: True to size. I am wearing a size small.

Verdict: At first: 2/10 .... but on second thought, 6/10... 

Essentially, I realized that while i do not like the way the tie waist sits as shown on the website, I actually REALLY like the look of this top if you tie the belt around back- as you would if you were tying a trench coat to sit open. This creates a more flattering line and it takes care of the issues I found with the tie being flimsy. So, in the end I decided I liked this top. KEEPING. Here are two more pics to show what I mean about tying it differently.

 Zella Leggings 

See review above. 

Vince Camuto Lace-Up Heels

Quality: Excellent. Lace up shoes can be iffy on quality (always check to see how secure the grommets for the laces are - they can rip on cheap shoes) and these are very well made. The suede and deep burgundy color are beautiful. I did really like these, BUT let me tell you, they take four billion years to put on. You need to carefully pull at all the lace loops to make them go on properly (and have the laces cross evenly across your foot). If you are willing to deal with doing this then these shoes are definitely a great purchase, I just am way too impatient for that. 

Size: True to size. I am wearing a size 9.

Verdict: 7/10. RETURNING. 

THAT'S IT FOLKS! I would love, love, love to hear your thoughts on this post, on my outfits (did I keep the right items?!) and any reviews you may have of these items! Let me know in the comments below. And lastly, to recap, here are the direct links to shop all of the above mentioned items: 

Theory Dress
CeCe Tweed Suit Skirt 
CeCe Tweed Suit Jacket
BP Open Front Cardigan
Zella Leggings
Tory Burch Riding Boots 
Halogen Belted Pink Top
Zella Leggings
Vince Camuto Lace-Up Heels

Also, for anyone wondering the other items you see me wearing in the photos are:
My Heels: Cole Haan 
My Bracelet: Olive & Piper
My Phone Case: Kate Spade

linking up with: casual friday // fab favorites // friday favorites //

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How To Pick Your First Suit

*original outfit post here*

I try to showcase a lot of wear-to-work outfits that are work appropriate, but go beyond just a basic suit. However, suits are a must have in your closet if you are a young woman working in the professional / corporate world. Even if you work in a laid back industry, there are times where a classic suit is just a necessity. 

Today I wanted to share some tips on how to select your first suit. Suit shopping can be a daunting task - especially for women - so these tips should help make the process easier! I'll also link up my favorite places to buy suits.

1. Know your Industry 

Do you work in a 'big business' accounting firm, a boutique law firm, a tech start-up? Knowing your industry is essential to determining the type of suit you need. For more 'corporate' industries you will want to to stick with a classic shape. The more relaxed, the more you can experiment with cuts/shapes. Personally, I live in 'skinny pant' suits. 

2. Decide on Color 

For a first suit, stick with the basics - navy or dark charcoal gray or most common. Traditionally the rule was to shy away from black as it is too harsh. Personally, I think that rule is outdated now and I see many young lawyers with black suits as their first/primary suit and it looks great. 

     3. Decide on Skirt vs. Pant            

If you are in a more strict environment, or are planning on going to numerous interviews in your first suit, skirt suits are still recommended as the most appropriate style for women. That said, it's 2016. If you feel more comfortable in a pant suit, go for it. I personally don't like skirt suits and did every law firm interview I had following law school in a pant suit. 

4. Try on Different "Fits"

Suits can be as diverse as jeans. Take a ton of suits into the change room to see how different fits sit on your body type. Longer vs. Shorter blazers will look different on different bodies, as will one, two or three button blazers. Try them all on to see what look suits you best before narrowing your search to suits in that particular fit.

 5. Where to Shop

Luckily, it is becoming easier to find stylish women's suits. My personal favorite brands/stores, by price point, are below.

Affordable ( >$200):

- Banana Republic

- Express

- Halogen (available at Nordstrom)

Mid-Range ($200-600):

- Ann Taylor

High End ($500+)

- Classiques (available at Nordstrom)

- Theory

- Boss (available at Saks)  

- Club Monaco

 

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Style Inspiration: Amal Clooney

I'm so excited to be sharing the second post in my "Style Inspiration" series; (you can see the first one here). When it comes to corporate chic, and looking like a fashion goddess while taking the professional world on by storm, there is no one greater than Amal Clooney.  

I have been following Amal's style for a while now, and one of the outfits that always stood out to me was this all white suit she wore last year to meet the Greek Prime Minister. I have always shied away from suit sets that are anything but black or blue. Something about the matching effect always felt very 1980s. This suit inspired me to throw that rule out the window & get myself a cream suit. 

Similar Suits: 1, 2  // Bracelet c/o (20% off w/ code LegalLee) // Handbag // Heels // Similar Sunglasses: 1, 2

Amal is quite minimalist when it comes to accessories. Inspired by her, I matched her look of black pumps, a black handbag and bold sunglasses. I did however add one simple, gorgeous bracelet to accessorize the look. I love the 'old fashioned' look to this bracelet, and I think Amal would approve haha.

Thanks for checking out today's post and I hope to see you back here on Wednesday!

Linking up with:on trend tuesdays // confident two-day // style swap // trend spin // tuesday fashion party // oh hey girl // style me wednesday// thursday fashion files // #wiwt // spotlight of the week

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3 Shades of Grey

Blazer: Forever 21 

Pants: H&M

Heels: Old. Similar: here and here
Purse: Old. Similar: here and here
Earrings: Old. Similar: here and here
Lipstick: NARS "Anita"

Happy Monday everyone! In honour of what is an insanely busy work week this week (I'm in court every day in multiple courthouses each day); I thought I'd show another work look. Unlike my post last week I wouldn't wear this outfit to court (have to stick to suits) but this is definitely a go to outfit for when I'm out of court meeting clients, doing research etc. I think this would be a great look for anyone working in a business casual office environment.

One of my go to fashion moves is combining different shades of the same colour. The outfit inevitably looks put together and chic. I wanted to compliment the three shades of grey in this look with pale pink as I am loving pale pink & grey together for spring. If you are ever feeling "stuck" for outfit inspiration definitely try combining shades of one colour and let me know how it goes!

Have a great day everyone! I'll be back, as always, on Wednesday with my Wednesday Wants. Thank you SO much for reading and please follow me on instagram or bloglovin' as well (link button at the bottom of this post)
 

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Court Attire (My go to work look)

Suit: Le Chateau Outlet 

Heels: Call it Spring 

Purse: Forever 21

 Necklace: Old. Similar: here and here
Lipstick: NARS "Anita"

Happy Friday everyone!

It has been a hectic 36 hours - got back form Portland, dealt with a number of cases in court, and now am heading to Ontario for a week long trip this afternoon! Life can be such a whirlwind sometimes.

Given how busy these past two days have been I felt inspired to post my "go to" suit for court. When I don't have time in the mornings this outfit is always what I go with. It's professional and polished, yet the pattern mixing and slim fit pants give it a modern, fashionable feel. Also, these heels are my current FAVOURITE for court. I swear I could run around all day in these with no problem. I highly recommend them if you are someone (like me) who likes to wear heels but has to be on your feet all day.

Have a great weekend everyone! To all you followers who have left my comments on my recent posts, emailed me, etc. during the past week, I am so sorry for my delay in responding to you! I will be spending my time in Ontario catching up on all things blog related!

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