3 Tips on Elevating Your Office and Work Clothes

April 24, 2017

Ruffle Bag, Statement Sleeves & Pearl Pants | Style Blog | mikialamode.comI’m an avid believer of dressing for success. Before I had completed high school, I had already worked at multiple part time office jobs, and for a long time, I had the mentality that you should dress where and who you wanted to be, and I wanted to be taken seriously at work. If people were going to talk about me at work, I wanted it to be positive – my attitude, my drive, my willingness to learn, great work ethic or even my office style. I admit that I didn’t always “get it” when it came to dressing appropriately at work, but with age, i’ve definitely gotten smarter about it, and I wanted to share my 3 tips on how to add a little fun and inject more personality in a work outfit without crossing the professional boundaries.

Ruffle Bag, Statement Sleeves & Pearl Pants | Style Blog | mikialamode.comRuffle Bag, Statement Sleeves & Pearl Pants | Style Blog | mikialamode.comPearl Pants | Style Blog | mikialamode.comRuffle Bag, Statement Sleeves & Pearl Pants | Style Blog | mikialamode.comAdd a Stylish and Fun Accessory
When you’re at work, you’re hardly carrying around your bag. If you live in a cold city and take transit to work, you’ve probably worn sneakers or unflattering boots to trudge through the downpour at some point, and then change into those really nice shoes that bring back that classic touch. Here, I am wearing a ruffle bucket bag that I’d add to an outfit at night. Not everyone drives to work and can swap out their bag, so I’ve included other really beautiful and classic fun ones you can wear. I’ve added some great selections below.

Bag available here.

Elevating a Classic Piece
Embellishments and embroideries are all very trendy right now, but not always the most practical for work. If you’ve seen my posts, you know I have had an obsession with pearls for a really long time, and I’ve started showing more and more of those pearl embellishments since last October. Here, I’ve worn a beautiful pair of wide leg trousers with pearl on the side. These touches are really elegant and work appropriate when they’re on a really classic cut. Ask yourself if you would wear this silhouette without the embellishments to work, and if you would, those bits of details can really elevate your outfit. Just don’t wear embellishments on your multiple pieces at once; street style isn’t meant for the office unless you work in fashion.

You can get the pearly trousers here, and similar here and here. Other great options below:

Incorporate Trends in a Practical Way
When you think of a safe and classic work outfit, we often think of a suit, or dress shirt and slacks – maybe even a white blouse and a pencil skirt, am I right? Take a classic silhouette and elevate the look by incorporating a trend in small dosage, ensuring it looks streamlined.
You have all seem my embroidered lace up heels I’ve worn here. They’d be great with a tailored jacket and skirt or slacks.
Here, I’ve paired a white shirt with full sleeves, which still allows you to move around fluidly and not get in the way of your work. It’s not overworked and has some slight eyelet and sleeve detail. I’ve linked various options for tops perfect at the office at all price points below.

Remember, wear what you truly love. You can dress comfortably without sacrificing your personality or style! I hope you enjoyed this post. If you like this outfit, shop the look at the links listed above.

 For more inspiration on style and travel, follow me on Bloglovin♥, Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to subscribe to my mailing list for special announcements and exclusive content.

Xo,

Miki

Photo credit to my one and only, Rise Again BJJ.

Ruffles & Frills | Statement Bag | Fashion Style | mikialamode.com

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  • Diana April 24, 2017 at 1:11 pm

    I looooove your top!! I’m a sucker for anything lace! And those statement sleeves! I like how you paired it with those wide leg trousers giving it a borrowed from the boys feel instead of being overly girly.
    Cheers
    Diana
    http://www.seaofblush.com

  • Luci's Morsels April 24, 2017 at 6:07 pm

    Your look is perfect! The statement sleeves and scalloped hem really make this top stunning!

    Luci’s Morsels | fashion. food. frivolity.

  • Christine Kong April 24, 2017 at 6:40 pm

    I love these pants and the side details are fabulous. The sleeves of this top are too pretty and I love the ties too. And can we talk about this gorgeous statement bag?! Such a well put together look and very chic! xoxo, Christine
    http://dailykongfidence.com/

  • Marisa Fonseca April 24, 2017 at 7:37 pm

    Chic and elegant dear! Love those trousers! xx

    Coco and Jeans By Marisa

  • Ciara April 24, 2017 at 11:45 pm

    These are all great tips! I love the idea of incorporating a trendy bag into your outfit – you’re totally right about no one really seeing it in the office. There’s definitely an art and practicality in finding outfits you can wear to work as well as when you leave the office, and it’s one I’m also trying to master. Thanks so much for sharing!!

    Ciara
    http://www.ciarasalloum.com

  • Karen Shannon April 25, 2017 at 12:15 am

    You look stunning! I love your look, it’s so chic.
    Stay in Style
    Karen @ Lookbook Store WordPress

  • Kim April 25, 2017 at 6:44 am

    Oh my goodness, that bag! Absolute love.

    http://www.thecaramelchronicles.com

  • Mercy April 25, 2017 at 8:07 am

    Oh these are cool tips, I also work in a corporate environment where I have to think extra careful of what to wear fashionably at the same time professionally. You’re showing that we can still do both. Love your cute bag and hip trousers.

    http://www.busyandfab.com

  • Nina Nguyen April 25, 2017 at 8:51 am

    I love your top so much, what great tips babe!! I’m actually looking to revamp my work wardrobe!!
    xo-Nina

    http://www.ninalnguyen.com/2017/04/neutrals.html

  • Len Parent April 25, 2017 at 11:25 am

    I’m obsessed with your ruffle sleeves doll. You look stunning and flawless!
    Have a wonderful week!
    Much love, Len
    http://www.lenparent.com

  • Sharka April 25, 2017 at 1:53 pm

    I love this post because I can relate with it so much. I remember making some office wear mistakes and it makes me smile when I remember it:) But older, wiser, I totally agree with your approach. I love love love the pants and the bag, you really look like CEO of some fashion brand:)
    kisses babe, hope you are well!
    Sharka
    http://www.thechicvibe.com

  • Isabel Robertson April 25, 2017 at 4:39 pm

    Great tips and I’m in love with this look! That bag is stunning!

    Bella x
    https://bellasfashionjournal.com

  • Ashley April 25, 2017 at 6:11 pm

    Babe!! Absolutely love this look so much! Head to toe perfection and that bag is TDF!!! How cute is it!!!

    xxx

    Ashley

    http://www.missgunner.com

  • Atsuna Matsui April 25, 2017 at 8:02 pm

    You look so classy in your office/work clothes. I’m particularly in love with the design of your bag.. it’s so unique and unlike any bag I’ve ever seen before.

    BLOG | YOUTUBE | INSTAGRAM

  • Shannon April 25, 2017 at 9:36 pm

    It’s great how practical you are while still looking completely stylish & put together!

    TFM BLOG

  • Sarah April 26, 2017 at 1:07 pm

    Miki this look is so perfect head to toe and is totally office appropriate. You always inspire me, I wasn’t sure about embellished trousers before I saw your outfit. But I honestly love how you’ve styled them and the side details are so perfect :). And can we talk about your sleeves, I seriously cannot get enough of statement tops and your one is so pretty. Finally, your bag is the perfect touch to complete this look, it’s such a fun piece 🙂

    xxx
    Sarah
    http://sarahatiq.com/

  • Cinthy Kwok April 26, 2017 at 2:10 pm

    You look great. I’m in love with your pants!

    xx, Cinthy Kwok

  • Alicia Mackin April 26, 2017 at 5:24 pm

    You have a great attitude this is so true. And this is how you succeed too. Plus girl you got great style. And excellent tips as well!

    Allie of
    http://www.allienyc.com

  • Jalisa April 26, 2017 at 8:12 pm

    It sounds like you were so mature for your age back in HS to have such an awesome and driven mindset, girl! I agree, we should definitely look and act the part of the position we wish to have and you look absolutely beautiful and so chic and elegant. I love the pear trousers, which fit you amazingly well and that bag is so pretty and unique. I also love the tips you’ve shared on making slight updates to classics to help elevate an office look. Thanks for sharing, beauty, and I hope you’re having a great week so far!

    XO,

    Jalisa
    http://www.thestylecontour.com

  • Amy April 26, 2017 at 8:30 pm

    SUCH GREAT TIPS. I couldn’t agree more with dressing for success and “dressing for the job you want, not the job you have.” When you work a 9-to-5 it’s sooooo important to look put together and professional. Loved this post and your fantastic tips.

    xx, Amy
    http://www.theluxilook.com

  • Laura - Furiously Chic April 27, 2017 at 7:58 am

    I have the chance to be able to wear what I want at work, but I agree that sometimes it might not always easy to bring your outfit “to the next level”, when you have boundaries.
    Anyway, I really like your 3 ideas! 🙂

    Have a nice day!

  • Jackie April 27, 2017 at 10:26 am

    These are great tips and I couldn’t agree with you more. My mom always to taught me to always look your best when you leave your house and dress appropriately for success. Your pearl pants are amazing and they look so chic paired with your white blouse. And the details really elevates this whole look. Thanks for sharing your tips. Hope you’re having a great week so far.

    xo, Jackie
    stylemydreams.com

  • Jessi Malay April 27, 2017 at 2:41 pm

    These are a collection of such great tips babe! I’ll definitely be keeping these tips in mind the next time I’m dressing for a meeting 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing girlie!

    XO Jessi,
    http://www.mywhitet.com/white-ruffles-and-tie-dye/

  • Rina April 27, 2017 at 9:11 pm

    I always need workday inspo when it comes to styling. For some reason I get lazy when it comes to dressing for work but definitely want to improve on that. I love your idea on incorporating trends in practical ways. Some fashion trends are super impractical or inappropriate for the workplace so I have to be extra cautious sometimes.

    xoxo
    Rina Samantha
    http://www.andshedressed.com

  • Dolce Nina April 28, 2017 at 9:22 am

    Love the combo! xoxo

  • Andreea Birsan April 28, 2017 at 12:31 pm

    These tips are really useful and I had no idea you had so many jobs before even finishing high school! Love a hard working girl :)! Also adore the silhouette you created with the wide leg pants, and yes those pearl details really added that little something that made the whole outfit stand out. It’s always fun playing with classic pieces that have a fresh twist. Have a nice weekend! xx

    Andreea,
    http://couturezilla.com/

  • yuka April 28, 2017 at 4:14 pm

    I used to think office wear was too stuffy, and since I never worked in a real office environment I never knew how stylish it can be! you look amazing!

    http://www.prettyinleather.net

  • Elifnaz April 28, 2017 at 4:48 pm

    Gorgeous outfit, love the bag!

    http://bellemelange.net/

  • From Luxe With Love April 28, 2017 at 11:40 pm

    Love those sleeves! Happy weekend babe! x

    http://www.fromluxewithlove.com
    http://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/from-luxe-with-love-14590195

  • JENNY April 29, 2017 at 5:16 pm

    Love your style!

    http://changeable-style.com

  • Dominique April 29, 2017 at 6:27 pm

    Those flared pants are gorgeous! I totally agree about dressing for success xx

    http://www.thatnewdress.com

  • Rosalie April 29, 2017 at 7:10 pm

    I love love love your trousers, I’m so scared to wear anything close to them though. Since I’m really short, I’m scared of making myself look shorter than I really am

    http://www.thelushstyles.com/

  • Katherine April 30, 2017 at 12:00 am

    I love the outfit, especially the top!

    http://www.myclusterofthoughts.com/

  • Chris April 30, 2017 at 1:58 pm

    This truly is a classy look.. Something I’d wear!
    Great post as usual.

  • Shannon Jenkins April 30, 2017 at 10:19 pm

    This top is stunning! I am obsessed with those bell sleeves!

    <3 Shannon 
    Upbeat Soles

  • Camila April 30, 2017 at 11:30 pm

    This bag is completely gorgeous girl, you look stunning and super chic!

    Camila,
    My Vogue Style | http://www.myvoguestyle.com

  • Siree May 1, 2017 at 2:24 am

    Love the bell sleeves look for work!
    I’m pretty unimaginative when it comes to work wear so having some tips like these are so helpful!

    Xx
    Siree
    The Hidden Thimble
    http://www.thehiddenthimble.com

  • Lola May 1, 2017 at 9:05 am

    Such awesome tips!
    And I love the outfit, the pants are awesome and the bag is absolutely exquisite!:D

    http://thewonderfashion.blogspot.com

  • Livia Pangdoko May 2, 2017 at 5:14 am

    wow you looks so stunning!! love your pants and purse so much <3

    xx,
    http://www.liviapangdoko.com

  • Merel May 2, 2017 at 6:06 am

    Love this bag!! Such an amazing design.

    X Merel
    http://www.andathousandwords.com

  • Vaishali May 4, 2017 at 2:45 pm

    OMG that bag is so gorgeous. Love it. The look is just perfect.
    Check my Work wear series here : http://www.vivaciouswish.com/2017/05/03/work-wednesday-ii/
    Vaishali

  • Sharon Wu May 4, 2017 at 4:16 pm

    Omg that bag is just to die for! You always pick the cutest, most unique pieces and I love that about you & your style Miki! xo, sharon

    http://www.stylelullaby.com/fashion/top-3-toms-shoes-season/
    @stylelullaby

  • Nati May 6, 2017 at 11:48 am

    Omg, I am obsessed with your bag, such an it piece 😉
    Nati xx
    http://www.simplyartdicted.com

  • Pamolina May 7, 2017 at 10:46 am

    beautiful shirt <3
    xxPamolina

    http://www.pamolina.com

  • jasna May 8, 2017 at 5:38 am

    I am loving this whole look hun, great tips too 🙂 xx

  • Nikki Living Life May 9, 2017 at 6:29 pm

    You are definitely dressed for success. Thank you for sharing all those helpful tips on updating classics pieces to help elevate an office look. Those pants and blouse are a perfect combo. The details on the pants are fabulous. Your bag is such a unique and stunning pieces.

    Xx
    Nikki
    http://www.nikkilivinglife.com

  • Bernice May 10, 2017 at 1:37 am

    #girlboss and my professional goal setter! Definitely agree with incorporating trends in a practical way is a fun way to stay on trend and still be ready ro meetings!

    https://www.bunnybernice.com/single-post/2017/05/10/Peachy-Keen-Sweater-Review-with-Inu-Inu

  • Rosy Ferry May 11, 2017 at 2:29 am

    I am in love with your bag so much, I don’t think I’ve seen anything so pretty 🙂

    Rosy | Sparkles of Light Blog
    My Instagram | Instagramr

  • Julia May 11, 2017 at 10:14 am

    Such great tips and such a great look! You look stunning and I love that bag!
    Julia x
    http://www.thevelvetrunway.com

  • the Fashion Matters May 11, 2017 at 10:16 am

    love your advises!

    The Fashion Matters– Travel & Fashion Blog

  • Stella Asteria May 11, 2017 at 12:57 pm

    Great look and tips my dear Miki! This is a perfect outfit for work, with the perfect fashionable touches like the pearls on your jeans! I always get anxious when I have to dress for work, but I am working on it and actually your tips make me realise it’s much easier and fun than I always though 🙂
    Thanks for sharing, hope you have already unpacked hihi!
    Love,
    Stella
    http://www.stellaasteria.com

  • Beckerman Girls May 11, 2017 at 9:07 pm

    Those pants r everything!!! SOOO SOOO COOL! Love how nautical they are and the white buttons on them rock!
    kisses
    xoBeckerman Girls

    http://www.BeckermanBlog.com

  • Tatjana May 15, 2017 at 9:33 am

    Been looking for these pants everywhere, they look amazing on you!
    Thanks so much for the inspiration Miki!
    Love from https://tbymallano.com/

  • Jessica May 15, 2017 at 9:18 pm

    I love the detail on your pants. And those bell sleeves bring a lot of drama to this look, just the right amount though!

    Jessica | notjessfashion.com

  • sonia // daring coco May 16, 2017 at 4:08 am

    These are great tips, almost making me wish I had a corporate type job I could dress up more for. Almost hehehe.

    Sxx
    http://www.daringcoco.com

  • Layla May 16, 2017 at 4:20 pm

    This is absolutely gorgeous – such a beautiful outfit!! 🙂

    I love this – hope you’re well and having a wonderful week!

    Layla xx

    http://www.sprinklesofstyle.co.uk

  • Manavi Siddhanti May 30, 2017 at 2:15 pm

    OH MY GOODNESS! I’m drooling over the top and pant. They are so PERFECT for work wear. Thanks for this amazing post, Girl. ^_^

    Love,
    Manavi
    http://www.beforbeauty.com

  • stylefrontier.com June 1, 2017 at 6:26 am

    you look super stylish in the work ensemble!
    xoxo
    style frontier

  • Elise June 1, 2017 at 12:14 pm

    Beautiful! Those pants!! Your top!! That BAG!! Gorgeous!!

    xx, Elise
    http://www.sparkleandslippers.blogspot.com

  • Chloe June 23, 2017 at 3:04 pm

    This look is so gorgeous! I love your sleeves and ruffle bag! They make such a great combo! 🙂

    xo, Chloe // http://funinthecloset.com/styling-silky-textures/

  • Laura June 25, 2017 at 12:35 pm

    What a fantastic look, your ruffle bag is so quirky and suits you ever so nicely!

    You look gorgeous!

    Laura xo
    http://www.shehearts.net

  • Kumari June 26, 2017 at 3:15 pm

    Those statement sleeves are just gorge! Love how you put your looks together. Great combo 🙂
    ♥Kumari
    http://stylesociety.co.za