The Square Life

Don’t judge a book by its cover. We’ve all heard that right? Hopefully we can all agree with it. Unfortunately, when it comes to landing and keeping the job of your dreams, that cliche goes out the window.

When you meet your future employer for the first time, he or she is judging your cover; your posture, your smile, eye contact, body language, and most importantly, your attire.

Granted, some jobs don’t require business casual, but there are only so many positions at Starbucks and Urban Outfitters. Most of us will be held to a higher standard of dress in the workplace.

LOOK 1. "DRESS TO IMPRESS"

Good for: first interviews, when the VP of the West Coast branch comes into town, or when asking for a raise.

Key Looks for Spring:

LADIES
a.
Blaze your own trail. {A classic and well-tailored blazer will make any casual skirt/top combo work-ready.}
b.
The midas touch. {Using all things nautical, any outfit feels relevant but not trendy.}
c.
White-on-white {All white is not only hot for spring, but an upgrade from the neutral tones we saw on the runways.}

GENTLEMEN
a.
Give me the skinny. {If you don’t already own a skinny tie, scoot on down to the mall or nearest boutique and pick one up for yourself. This trend is not going away anytime soon.}
b.
Keep it classic. {When dressing to impress, it will never hurt to stay with the tried and true pieces.}

LOOK 2. “STORMY WEATHER”
-- the clock out blow out

Good for: typical spring weather. The Spring Season in Utah is as predictable as Britney Spears. In a single day it could snow, rain and hit 72 degrees and then rain again. Best be prepared by layering.

Key Looks for Spring:

LADIES
a.
Dig the trench. {Update the look with spring touches like the three-quarter sleeve, a bright color, or a daring print.}
b.
Pops of color. {Runways were heavy-laden with bright primary colors. Invest in some bright accent pieces like a skinny belt, bright platform pump, bangles or bags.}
c.
Come heck or highwater. {If you do anything, make it high-waisted, or a slim-fitted crop pant. The wide-leg denim trouser is wearable year-round.}

GENTLEMEN
a.
Water repellent. {Not every man can pull off the trench coat as well as Jude Law, but a macintosh coat looks great on any frame.}
b.
Go sleevless. {The sweater-vest has returned and for good reason, it’s classic and looks great paired over a timeless oxford shirt. Top the sweater-vest over a tee-shirt and you’re ready for the weekend.}

LOOK 3. “CASUAL FRIDAY”

Good for: When your boss wants to boost morale so they let you wear whatever you want one day a week. Gentleman, this does not mean that you throw on your sweet “Fully Invested” Tee-shirt, flip-flops, and a raggedy cap; and ladies, hoodies, velour sweat suits, and Uggs aren’t going to fly either.

Key Looks for Spring:

LADIES
a.
Surfin’ safari. {Khaki, tribal-inspired prints and pockets are all trend-ready, but they’re still crisp and clean enough to sport day and night. throw on a gladiator sandal and you’re good to go.}
b.
Accessorize and don’t apologize. {Sometimes the corporate world can suck your soul right out of you. Get some of it back with the unexpected accessory. You can keep it work-ready and still put that touch of who you really are in your outfits.}

GENTLEMEN
a.
The cardigan is the new blazer. {Nothing says effortless cool like wearing something out of Grandpa’s closet. It’s a great layering piece and it’s something new to try.}
b.
Pop of color. {The ladies don’t get to have all the fun. Use color (and don’t fear it) in your ties, button-ups, shoes, man-bag, arglye socks, or a bright watch.}
c.
Ballad of a thin pant. {Chuck your pleated-front khakis, and find a well-tailored slim trouser. it will elongate the shorter man.}