I've Got to Get This Job: How to Dress Professionally

"I really need this job. Please God, I need this job. I've got to get this job!" - "Opening: I Hope I Get It" from A Chorus Line.

For me, and I'm sure for many of you who are looking for jobs, internships, and externships, it's application season. I always find job applications incredibly nerve-wracking. From the cover letter, to the resume, to the writing sample, and (hopefully) the interview, the whole process makes me anxious. The part of the job search that brings me joy is dressing for the interview. I have always loved putting an outfit together, no matter the occasion. What's special about professional attire is the empowerment that clothes can make you feel. When I'm in a suit, it's like I'm on top of the world. I want to share my fashion wisdom and help you feel confident walking into the interview.

#1: Where to shop?

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When it comes to professional attire, fit is key. If your outfit doesn't fit you impeccably, it will look messy. No matter where you're shopping, keep good tailoring in mind. My personal favorite places to shop for workwear are J.Crew (petite, tall, and plus sizes), Banana Republic (petite, tall, and up to size 20), Ann Taylor (petite, tall, and up to size 18), ASOS (petite, tall, and plus sizes), H&M (plus sizes), Topshop (petite and tall sizes), Zara, ModCloth (sizes XXS-4X), Nordstrom Rack, and T.J.Maxx. These stores have the best selections; a mix of classic and on-trend pieces. I like to shop at J.Crew, Banana Republic, and Ann Taylor when sales are going on. J.Crew Factory, the outlet version of the store, has more affordable options. I bought my favorite suit there.

#2: What to buy?

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Everyone has their own personal sense of style. Stay true to yours. However, I believe there are some staple pieces everyone should have in their wardrobe to help them dress for success: a black blazer, a suit, a white button-down shirt, a black button-down shirt, a striped button-down shirt, and a black cardigan or sweater. These are pieces you will be able to style in countless ways for a wide range of professional opportunities, to interview and beyond. I love both skirt suits and pant suits, but if you're not a skirt person, by all means, stay away. The same goes for a dress. If you don't wear dresses, don't buy one. It will be a waste of money you could have spent on clothes you love. Let your clothes reflect who you are. Don't try to fit into some mold of what you think a "professional" should look like.

#3: Heel or no heel?

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If you don't like heels, don't wear them. I am a heel fan, but a lot of times I find them uncomfortable. DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, BREAK IN A NEW PAIR OF HEELS, OR ANY SHOES, FOR A JOB INTERVIEW!!! You will be in pain, and you don't want that. Interviews are painful enough without blisters.

#4: What to wear?

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It depends on how formal the job in which you will potentially be working is. Some jobs are business casual, others require a suit. Before your interview, be sure to research what the environment is like to gauge what attire is work-appropriate. In my view, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed. As the saying goes, dress for the job you want. For my upcoming job search within the legal profession, I plan to wear a suit, with either a pencil skirt or pants, a crisp white button-down shirt, and heels. This is a classic look that makes me feel most powerful. Find your power outfit and wear it with pride.

Best of luck to all of you who are embarking on the job search! You're going to be stylish, smart, and a "singular sensation!"

~Bitsy

Very Official Shopping Guide

About a month and a half ago, I posted on Instagram asking you all what content you would like to see from me. Now that I am on summer break from school, I have much more time to focus on blogging. One of you requested I write a post on where I buy my clothes. I now present to you my Very Official Shopping Guide! Let's break it down. 

American Apparel

Okay, so, they went bankrupt, and are a shopping destination of the past, but I have many pieces from AA that I love. Their tennis skirts, halter dresses, and turtlenecks will always hold a special place in my heart. The store on Newbury Street here in Boston is now closed for eternity. RIP to an iconic clothing oasis and my teenage fashion dreams.

Aritzia

Aritzia has the most elegant, effortlessly-chic pieces of clothing. They make their pieces in the most luxe fabrics, from suede to silk. I am obsessed with their dresses, skirts, and outerwear especially. Aritzia is a go-to for me for quality wardrobe staples and special articles I will have for years to come.

ASOS
I love the variety ASOS has. The online-only shop sell clothes, shoes, and accessories that suit any look for anyone. Their range of sizes is incredible, which I give them serious props for. The ASOS Petite collection is my fashion life-saver. The proportions are perfection; pants and dresses are never too long for my barely 5-foot-nothing frame. Plus, the vast majority of items ASOS sells are reasonably priced and the 10% year-round student discount is a win. If I'm looking for something I can't seem to find anywhere else, ASOS almost always carries it.

Brandy Melville

As I write this, I am wearing a Brandy Melville T-shirt, sweater, and sweatpants. Brandy Melville is a go-to of mine for basics. Their simple T-shirts never disappoint and are so soft and cozy. However, unlike ASOS, they are "one-size fits all." SAD! I own all sorts of pieces from Brandy Melville: tops, skirts, shorts, jeans, dresses, chokers, bags, and hats. I've found their items to be very good quality. I've had some pieces on rotation for over three years now and they still look great. Brandy is also one of my favorite accessory destinations. Their jewelry, hats, and bags are not to be missed. 

Buffalo Exchange
This thrift store is vibin'. They carry secondhand as well as new pieces that are "in" at the moment and make a statement. Their collection is meticulously curated. I found my beloved Ramones band T-shirt there as well as a pair of jeans I'm absolutely in love with (I bet I have worn them over 100 times) and a chic, heather grey knit bodycon dress. I haven't been there in a year, but I want to go back soon because it is a fashion goldmine, although they are a bit pricer than your local Goodwill. 

Emerson College

Yes, this is my college. Yes, I am including it as a place I get clothes. Yes, I am being wicked serious. Here's why; at the end of the year, everyone on campus has the opportunity to get rid of clothes they don't want at what we call the "Shop & Swap." I have found the most amazing pieces through this, from J Brand jeans (major win) and pieces with tags still on, to vintage items, all in impeccable condition,for free! Thanks, Emerson!

Forever 21

In my opinion, summer is Forever 21's best season, followed by fall. It's high tide for the fast-fashion retailer right now. Forever 21 has it all. Their jewelry is A+ as are their tops and skirts. Although it can often times be a hit or miss, when I find the right F21 piece, it's a big deal. I either leave Forever 21 empty handed or with a haul; there is no in-between.

Free People

When I want to go boho, Free People is my go-to. Their pieces are so unique and intricately made, like they were designed by woodland fairies. Their dresses and tops always make a statement. Side note: I recently purchased a sequin rainbow scrunchie from them and it is my everything.

Goodwill

Another fab thrift store. Thrifting is honestly one of my all-time favorite activities. (How many times have I used the phrase "all-time favorite" in this post?) Pros of thrifting: it's eco-friendly, incredibly affordable, often times benefits a charity, and is a lot of fun. I get a rush from scouring the racks trying to find that one special piece. Goodwill has a great selection most of the time, but it of course varies by location. 

H&M

What can't I find at H&M? They have practically built the foundation of my wardrobe. Everything is on point all the time. I'm obsessed with their denim, basics, trendy pieces, knitwear, you name it! A trip to H&M has rarely left me disappointed and empty handed.

LF Stores

LF has a total Coachella vibe. Their pieces are very unique and inspired by the edgy, bohemian LA aesthetic. Three words for you: shop the sales. They have end of season sales and they are incredible.  I found a pair of jeans for $28 that were originally $238 and they are one of my favorite pairs I've ever owned. Seriously; shop the sales.

Madewell
Madewell is another one of those stores that sells great quality pieces. They are a bit more expensive, so shopping sales is what I prefer. Their denim is incredible. I especially love "The Jean Jacket." Plus, they offer a 15% off student discount all year long.

Nordstrom
Nordstrom. Where to begin. My all-time favorite department store. I buy everything here: clothes, shoes, handbags and accessories, makeup, you name it. My most-loved brands and designers they carry include Topshop, Free People, Adidas, Michael Kors, and Rebecca Minkoff.

Nordstrom Rack

Fantastic for shoes and accessories. I got all my big hoop earrings here for $10 a pair. Can't beat it. I'm Nordstrom obsessed, so the fact everything here is on sale 24/7 is a huge win. The savings are incredible. 

Rebecca Minkoff
Rebecca Minkoff makes some of my favorite handbags. Her designs are chic and timeless all at once. My favorite handbag I own of hers is now discontinued, which makes me sad. It was called the "Mini MAB" aka the handbag I carry 99.9% of the time. I was hoping to get it in other colors someday. She has other bags similar to it, but the "Mini MAB" will forever be my fave. 

Reformation
I've only ever shopped the sales here. I will say, I own two dresses from them and they are two of my most-loved dresses I have. What I love most about Reformation is their clothes have a far less environmental impact than clothes from typical fast fashion retailers and are made in LA. Plus, everything they make is adorable and I want all of it.

Sam Edelman

A go-to footwear destination of mine. I own their oh-so-comfy and chic sandals, loafers, and booties. They suit any outfit. If I'm not mistaken, the brand offers a student discount in stores.

Savers Thrift

My favorite place to "pop some tags" is the Savers in my small New Hampshire hometown...who knew?! Whenever I come home for school breaks I stop by. I already went twice this summer and found incredible pieces like a velvet dress that looks like something straight out of Stevie Nicks' closet and Levi's. Honestly, why spend $80 on Levi's jeans when you can find them at a thrift store like Savers for under $10? They'll have that lived-in feel and be just as good of quality. 

T.J. Maxx

T.J.Maxx has been I store I've loved for years. I've been wearing their clothes since I was little. I am never disappointed on a trip to T.J.'s. Clothes, shoes, handbags, and jewelry are my favorite departments. What's great at T.J.Maxx is they carry clothes from a whole bunch of brands and the savings are amazing! I have scored Free People and Tularosa pieces for a whole lot less. 

Topshop

Topshop is very special to me. One of my favorite stores for sure. Their petite line is perfection. I own a few pairs of the "Petite Joni Jeans" and they are my favorite high waisted skinny jeans ever. I swear by them. Their skirts are fantastic as are their dresses, tops, knits, and outerwear. Topshop's shoes are also gorgeous. Oh, and their jewelry is really good! If it's Topshop, I'll buy it. Topshop has a 10% student discount.

Uniqlo
HeatTech Turtlenecks. That's all. I shall say no more. 

Urban Outfitters

I come here every now and then just to shop the sale racks. Can you say $10 flannels?! Their dresses make me swoon. 

Zara

Where do I begin with Zara. They are another one of my favorite stores. Zara has filled my wardrobe with beautiful, fashion pieces that have a haute couture vibe. Seriously. Zara is so good at what they do. I love their outerwear, jeans, rompers, tops, dresses, and knitwear the most. Zara slays the street style game every time. They keep getting better! Idk how they do it! I have done school projects on this store I could go on and on. #Obsessed. 

There you have it; the places I get my clothes! Where do you love to shop?

~Bitsy

Back to School Muse: Iris Apfel

It's back to school season which means it's time once again to see faces new and old in the hallways, in the classroom, and around campus. You may be wondering how to present yourself to your peers through clothing; pieces of fabric woven into different styles, silhouettes, and sizes. Will you try new trends? Get a whole new wardrobe? Raid your sibling's closet? Pop some tags? Whatever your fashion acquisition method, I bet you want to look "cool." If you're striving for your style to have the "cool factor," look no further than Iris Apfel. Dress like Iris. No, I don't mean this literally, (but if you want to, go right ahead, she's a very stylish lady). What I mean is WEAR WHATEVER THE HECK YOU WANT!!! 

Iris Apfel should be everyone's back to school muse. She's the epitome of personal style through unapologetic self-expression. Iris wears what she likes and makes her feel confident. She doesn't listen to whatever "fashion rules" have been written in invisible ink in some invisible book of fashion dos and don'ts. But don't take my word for it. Here's what Iris has to say about personal style:

"When you don't dress like everyone else, you don't have to think like everyone else" - Iris Apfel.

"If you make a mistake in what you put together, the fashion police are not going to haul you into jail" - Iris Apfel.

"There's no how-to road map to style. It's about self-expression and, above all, attitude" - Iris Apfel.

"I don't dress to be stared at. I dress for myself" - Iris Apfel.

"It's better to be happy than well-dressed" - Iris Apfel.

Iris clearly follows her own clothing compass. Her whimsical outlook on life and style is what makes this fashion icon one of my greatest inspirations. She dares to wear the most eclectic combination of pieces, from oversized jewelry to funky patterns and exaggerated silhouettes. Iris wears what speaks to her and owns the look, which is something we should all do. It doesn't matter what other people think. Being yourself is what's important. Confidence is always chic.

~Bitsy

Summer Dressing

For me, summertime = dresses. They're an outfit all in one piece; what could be better?! My go-to dresses of the season are body-con, slip, and maxi. While searching the web for my favorites, I discovered Nasty Gal, Topshop, ASOS, and Zara had the best selections. I swear by Topshop's and ASOS' petite lines. 

Body-Con

ONE: Nasty Gal 'Tamara Halter Dress'

TWO: Nasty Gal 'Bell From Heaven Mini Dress'

THREE: Topshop 'Lace-up Mini Dress'

My favorite body-con dresses have interesting details. I loved the strappy halter style of the navy Nasty Gal dress. It would look great with a pair of silver heels. The bell sleeves of the white dress really caught my eye. It feels a bit '70s and a bit French all at once. The grey ribbed lace-up dress from Topshop is perfect for hot summer days. I'd wear it casually with sneakers or sandals. 

Slip

ONE: Nasty Gal 'Bare Minimum Satin Dress'

TWO: Topshop 'Lace Trim Slip Dress'

THREE: Nasty Gal 'Motel Bulma Slip Dress'

Slip dresses are the dress of the moment. Celebrities like Zendaya, Selena Gomez, and Rihanna are bringing back the '90s silhouette. I have purchased a couple slip dresses this season, one being this silky Topshop mini dress. I really like the Nasty Gal v-neck slip with lace details and navy blue slip with double straps as well. 

Maxi

ONE: Topshop 'PETITE Lace Trim Maxi Dress'

TWO: ASOS 'PETITE Halter Strappy Back Maxi Dress'

THREE: Zara 'Long Contrast Crochet Dress'

I've also been into maxi dresses lately. They can be dressed up or down, especially when they're made of fabrics like silk or a cotton knit. Because I'm petite, I tend to gravitate towards solid colors. I find wearing one tone gives the illusion of being taller. I fell in love with the lace trim maxi from Topshop. It has a romantic and soft look about it that's perfect for summer. The black ASOS halter maxi dress with a side slit is perfect for day or night, and the white one from Zara with a crochet bodice is very beachy and bohemian. 

What is your favorite style dress to wear in the summertime?

~Bitsy

The Style List | February and March 2016

Topshop 'Joni' jeans

These are my favorite jeans ever.  I have them in petite length and they are the best. They can be dressed up or down effortlessly, day or night. I've worn them with everything from a blouse and blazer to a crop top. 

Topshop bomber jacket

As dramatic as it sounds, this bomber jacket honestly changed my life. It was a birthday present and I've been wearing it non-stop ever since. The Pink Ladies vibes are real. Amazing piece, amazing quality. 

Rebecca Minkoff 'Mini MAB' bag

I've had this bag for a couple years now and it is never not a favorite of mine. It never fails to complete any outfit. Highly recommend. 

ASOS western belt

This was in my January Style List as well and it continues to be a go-to accessory of mine. Festival season is here, and even though I'm not Coachella-Boston Calling-Bonnaroo-bound, I'll still be rocking it.

Adidas 'Stan Smith' sneakers

I had been lusting after the Stan Smiths for months are was so excited to get these for my birthday. They're incredibly hard to come by and I love how this black snakeskin print pair is different from the white and green version. These sneakers tie any look together. 

Zara off-the-shoulder dress (sold out)

This dress had ben hanging in my closet for months. I bought it last summer and only wore it once to College Fashion Week. In February and March, I got a lot more wear out if it. It's fantastic what can happen when you shop your closet! I can't wait to style it for the spring and summer months. It would look great with a pair of Converse or Stan Smiths. 

Zara striped shirt (sold out)

There is something timeless about a blue and white striped shirt. It adds a relaxed element to any outfit. I love to wear mine with black clothes for a cool contrast. 

Sam Edelman 'Petty' ankle boots

These shoes are a staple in my wardrobe. I have gotten so much wear out of them. I dress them up or down, with dresses or jeans. They're perfect all year round. 

Daniel Wellington 'Classic Sheffield' watch

Another piece that was in my January Style List and will be a forever favorite. I wear this watch with everything. It's become a part of my signature accessories look. 

Thrifted straight-leg jeans

Nothing is better than a pair of thrifted jeans. I found mine at Savers and they are a go-to on days when I want to be comfortable and casual. I'm always wearing these with some sort of sneaker. If you're looking for lived-in denim, thrift stores are the place to shop. 

~Bitsy

The Style List | January 2016

I've tried to do similar series posts like this in the past, but they never stuck. I always found myself reaching for what to write about each month in a forced effort to capture my "newest fashion obsessions." These posts aren't going to be like that. As a fashion blogger and someone who loves fashion in general, I sometimes feel pressured to be wearing the latest clothes. The world of fashion blogging has become its own reality series called Keeping Up with the Fashionistas. Honestly, I can't keep up and odds are 99.99% of people can't either. It's not realistic. There is always going to be the latest "gotta-have-it" shoe, handbag or trend. Staying relevant in the fashion universe is nearly an impossible feat, unless you're a celebrity, were a pioneer in fashion blogging and now incredibly successful, or member of the Vogue-worthy elite. 

 So, where does that leave everyone else? If you're like me, you'll probably be found picking and choosing the trends that suit your aesthetic at stores like Tj Maxx, Forever 21, H&M, Zara, Topshop and ASOS as well as thrift stores. And you know what, there is nothing wrong with this! I love shopping at these stores. The high fashion looks I want to recreate with my own personal twist become accessible. Style isn't in a brand label. Style is how you express yourself through the clothes you wear. It's not about whether there is a Chanel logo fastened to it. Style has no symbol. It's something anyone can possess if they know what inspires them and suits who they are. 

The Style List is my latest installment on Bits of Style. Every month, I will be curating my favorite pieces into a post and writing about why they have a special place in my wardrobe. It's not about the brands; it's about how each item has contributed to my personal style evolution. Every article of clothing or accessory in my arsenal adds another layer to my personality. Some posts may have repeat items, which I think is a good thing. If you love something, why not wear it as much as you want? Fear not, outfit non-repeaters. There are no rules in fashion. I'm an outfit repeater believer. 

Here are the pieces that captured the essence of my style in January:

Brandy Melville "Girl Power" Sweatshirt

I saw this in Brandy Melville when I went Christmas shopping and knew I just had to get it for my sister (and myself). The color scheme of navy blue and gray is my aesthetic and the "girl power" saying is nothing short of powerful. I've never seen a sweatshirt that was more me than this one.

Black Perforated Leather Vans

I honestly never thought I would own a pair of Vans. They always seemed too West Coast-cool for me to pull off. My sister started wearing them (she's really cool and belongs on the West Coast), which of course peaked my interest. I found these leather ones and knew I had to get them. I could "make it work" Tim Gunn style in my own way. I can't tell you how many times I've worn these since I bought them this summer. I will pair them with anything from jeans and a leather jacket to a maxi dress. 

ASOS PETITE Faux Fur Coat

The coat that changed my life. It is the epitome of the fire emoji. Vintage-inspired fashion at its finest. If you're petite and looking for a faux fur coat that is too fabulous, this is the one and only. 

Daniel Wellington 'Classic Sheffield' Watch 

"Oh, Mr. Sheffield!" Fran Drescher was actually talking about this watch, believe it or not. This is another one of those items that captures my style. I love how this watch is both classic and modern. The contrast of the black leather strap and white face with silver detailing makes it a truly timeless timepiece. 

ASOS Leather Western Belt

Cowgirl-chic. This belt adds a vintage, edgy and western vibe to any outfit. When I wear it, I like it to be the focus of the look. I love pairing it with jeans, a leather jacket, simple blouse or tee and ankle boots. It would also look really cute with a denim dress. 

Zara Distressed Blue Jeans

I love everything about these jeans and have been wearing them all the time. The wash, subtle rips and fraying at the hem are just right. 

Adidas 'Superstar' Sneakers

The ultimate, classic white sneakers. These go with pretty much anything. I wear mine running errands around the city and heading to class. Pro tip: I am a size 5 or 5 1/2 and bought a kids 3 1/2 in these shoes as they run large. If you can wear the kids sizes, I highly suggest you get those instead. They're just as cute and the quality is no different. Plus, you'll save $10 or $20 so it's a win-win!

Zara Black Biker Jeans

The other pair of jeans I have been wearing all the time. Black jeans are one of my favorite pieces of clothing to wear. The zipper detailing on this pair make them interesting and edgy. My favorite way to style them is with a black turtleneck and Vans. 

Zara Faux Leather Jacket

One of my all-time favorite items in my wardrobe is my Zara faux leather jacket. It goes with everything and is the perfect completer piece to any outfit. The quality is amazing and it is great for layering. I wear it all year round. 

Sorel 'Joan of Arctic' Snow Boots

Who says snow boots can't be stylish? Sorel makes the most fabulous snow boots ever. They're more than just fashionable though; they're also comfortable and keep my feet from ever getting cold. I have worn these in the Boston snow and on 20 degree days and have been toasty warm. If you want quality  snow boots with serious style, these are them. 

~Bitsy

What Iris Apfel Taught Me

This year, I went as fashion icon Iris Apfel for Halloween. She is one of my biggest inspirations when it comes to personal style. I love how Iris isn't afraid to take risks and has created her own, unique identity using clothes and accessories. Big, round glasses, layered necklaces and bangles stacked up and down each arm are her trademarks. It's no surprise Iris' clothing and jewelry collection is recognized as one of the best in the world. If you haven't watched her documentary on Netflix, I highly recommend it.

I recreated Iris' look by pulling from my own closet, my mom's treasure trove of a jewelry box and thrifting at Savers. I removed the lenses from of a pair of sunglasses I found at Marshall's to complete the persona. Becoming Iris Apfel made me think about the way I see fashion. The base of my costume, a simple black turtleneck and jeans, were a blank canvas to color myself in statement-making jewelry. With each bangle and necklace, I was adding another element to the canvas. I made sure each component of my outfit served a creative purpose. Dressing up became an art form. 

I think the artistry to getting dressed has been somewhat lost. We're so focused on following the latest trends and trying to recreate celebrity looks, that we've lost sight of individuality. There's really no fun in wearing what everybody else is wearing all the time. I think everyone should try to channel their inner Iris Apfel and be more spontaneous with their style. I'd like to close this post with some of my favorite Iris quotes:

"Fashion you can buy, but style you possess."

"There's no how-to road map to style. It's about self-expression and, above all, attitude."

"If you make a mistake in what you put together, the fashion police are not going to haul you into jail."

"When you don't dress like everyone else, you don't have to think like everyone else."

"I say, dress for yourself. Listen to your inner muse and take a chance. Wear something that says, 'here I am' today." 

~Bitsy

Back to School Muse: Gigi Hadid

Gigi Hadid has mastered the art of comfy-chic dressing. The model's off-duty outfits are complete with sneakers, jeans, T-shirts, denim jackets and oversized shirts. Gigi is the ultimate style muse for the busy college or high school student. She knows how to rock a dress and sneakers and makes even the simplest of outfits stand out. Her effortless fashion sense is A+. 

I recently went to Zara and walked away with some Gigi Hadid inspired pieces that are perfect for back to school. What's so great about Zara is their clothing looks exactly like what was just coming down the runways. I purchased distressed jeans, black biker jeans, a striped shirt, navy blue sweater and a black boat neck dress. I've put together a few looks below to show you how I plan to style these Gigi-esque items. The possibilities are truly endless and I know I'll be wearing these pieces again and again. I hope this gives you some inspiration for your back to school outfits. 

styling striped shirt by bitsofstyle featuring adidas sneakers

styling sweater and jeans by bitsofstyle featuring a genuine leather purse

styling biker jeans by bitsofstyle featuring a toggle bracelet

styling boat neck dress by bitsofstyle featuring a white gold bracelet

Here's to a stylish new school year!

~Bitsy