November 2010

Wednesday’s TPS Report: Origami Detail Dress

by Kat November 17, 2010 Fashion

Our daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.

ORIGAMI DETAIL DRESS-ASST-HEATHER CHARCOAL/WOODI am loving the origami details on this ponte knit dress from Max Studio. The details here all seem designed to both flatter as well as comfort — the empire waist, the belled sleeves, the looseish straight skirt — lovely. I’d wear it with simple pumps (with, perhaps, a wrap on standby) for a casual day at the office. The dress is $118 at Max Studio (which has a number of good basics on sale right now). ORIGAMI DETAIL DRESS-ASST-HEATHER CHARCOAL/WOOD


Seen a great piece you’d like to recommend? Please e-mail editor@corporette.com with “TPS” in the subject line.

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Coffee Break: Ulinda Pump

by Kat November 16, 2010 Accessories

Vigotti - Ulinda (Navy Smack Mettalic Patent) - FootwearI am normally not a “bow and pleat on the vamp” kind of girl, but these shoes are calling my name for some reason! Even though I’ve never heard of the brand before, it has glowing reviews on Zappos — and a comfortable, durable shoe is never a bad thing. The shoes are $99 at Zappos (and in 9 different colors — the navy patent is pictured). Vigotti – Ulinda (Navy Smack Mettalic Patent) – Footwear

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MUST I have a Designer Bag?

by Kat November 16, 2010 Accessories

Pictured:  Purses, originally uploaded to Flickr by j o s hReader J has a great question about designer bags…

I’m going back to full-time lawyer work (public sector) after being home w/my two children for a few years. I know designer bags are big among my stay-at-home mom friends, but I’ve never been that interested. I’m wondering — how essential is that Coach or Dooney & Burke (etc) bag for a lawyer/professional women today? I’ve already picked up a selection of nice pantsuits, high-quality shoes & scarves and just don’t know if I have to spring for this too!

There are a few different components here. In an ideal world, I would say that your bag should be in good shape — no threads, no scuffs, certainly no rips or stains on the outside of the bag. Because of that need for durability and presentability, yes, most women do go for leather bags, and yes, well-made ones at that. (Pictured: Purses, originally uploaded to Flickr by j o s h.)

The other thing here is the need for “street cred” — and this requires you to know a bit about your colleagues. If you’re working with women who have very high-end, recognizable bags, I would advise against carrying a knock-off or a cheaper “interpretation” of the bag (particularly if logos are involved). If, however, you just choose a simple, basic black or brown bag and carry it without pretense — then you may not get “points” for being a fashionista, but you won’t get dinged for trying too hard, either.

Readers, what are your thoughts on designer bags? Must you have one? If you had to choose ONE designer bag to get (or at least to “start” a collection with), which would it be? Which are the best basic, no-fuss, high-quality bags for work?

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Tuesday’s TPS Report: Kym Military Long Jacket

by Kat November 16, 2010 Fashion

Our daily TPS reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.
Kym Military Long JacketThe military trend is hot this season but, to be honest, I haven’t been feeling it — olive can just be too drab. This coat, however, is gorgeous — love the floral embroidery, the swing to the jacket, the stand collar — and it’s made of fleece, so you know it’s ridiculously comfortable. It looks like the perfect coat for the a casual day to and from the office. It’s $208 at Neiman Marcus. Kym Military Long Jacket


Seen a great piece you’d like to recommend? Please e-mail editor@corporette.com with “TPS” in the subject line.

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Holiday Gifts Under $50, brought to you by The Affordable Style Network

by Kat November 15, 2010 Advertising

SW Oversized Style #167Today’s sponsored post is brought to you by The Affordable Style Network…

The holidays have ambushed us yet again. One would assume that after a couple decades with the good old 12 month pattern, December’s eminent arrival would be less stealthy. But alas, you’re now faced with the familiar question: what do I get for my gal pal, favorite co-worker, sister…the list of significant working ladies in your life goes on.

The professional woman is a tricky target. She knows what she needs, and what she needs she simply buys herself. Thus, the key is to find an item fun enough that she might not classify it as a necessity, yet practical enough that the gift won’t be cast to the dreaded closet o’ trinkets. Follow along for our top six holiday gift pickings under $50.

Selena Houndstooth WrapThere’s nothing more classic than houndstooth. The fact that the print happens to be on trend this season is just a cherry on top of the perfect scarf cake. The Selena Houndstooth Wrap is the ultimate multi-tasker. It can double as anything from a blanket on an airplane to a cover-up at a formal event.

Peyton Crinkle ScarfIf the loudest print you’ve seen her in is grandma’s old floral-motif sofa, a solid-color version like the Peyton Crinkle Scarf is a perfect choice. It has the multi-function capabilities of its vivid counterpart, and is well-suited for the more conservative dresser. This one’s material also means easy transition to spring.

Ashton Oversized SatchelIn a glance, this handbag will disprove her work-bags-are-stuffy theory. Ladies’ professional and laptop bag selections tend to range from nerdy and zippered-pocket-infested to sterile and manila envelope-like, so the Ashton Oversized Satchel is a true find. It comes in black and cream, both fail-proof color choices.

SW Oversized Style #167I know we all can only stomach so many “get (insert Hollywood type)’s sunglasses look!” messages in one lifetime, but Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Aniston and Jennifer Lopez are on to something with this style of shades. The SW Oversized Style #167 miraculously suit nearly every face shape and look much more expensive than the price of a couple of lattes.

The AlexisWho doesn’t love a matching set? If the set happens to be practical and feature a lovely, subtle animal print, all the better. The Alexis reading glasses are ideal for any far-sited friend, as the sleek square suits most face shapes. A little detective work on your part to discover her lens power needs makes the gift that much more thoughtful and customized.

Chatties Women's Argyle Crew SocksBefore you gawk at the idea of giving socks, think about what a smart pair of argyles on the feet does for the psyche. I can almost see your mind changing. A successful look starts from the toes up, literally, so grab a set Chatties Women’s Argyle Crew Socks and give her a jump start on that complete professional look.

What was the best wearable accessory you ever received as a gift? Do you still use it?

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Coffee Break: Etre Touchy Gloves

by Kat November 15, 2010 Accessories

Women's Etre Touchy Gloves Loving these gloves from Fair Indigo — the exposed forefinger and thumb are a perfect way to stay bundled up, yet be able to text, check emails, and more. They’re $38 at FairIndigo.com. Women’s Etre Touchy Gloves

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