We’re always seeking new ways to dress and impress at the office, so who better to look to than our fashionable friends from coast to coast? We polled cool city girls from NYC to LA to share their work uniform, and how they stay chic while maintaining such busy schedules.
Kate Foley, US Fashion Director at Vestiaire Collective
“My work—actually, my life—uniform pretty much always consists of a mid-calf length skirt, usually in a beautiful print, with a black top or t-shirt. Sometimes I switch it up and wear a printed top and a plain skirt, but I always wear at least one printed piece—it always cheers me up! Comfort is the most important element of an outfit for me. It's impossible to manage a packed schedule when you're not feeling your best. I switch between comfortable heels and sandals or brogues—this pair from Louis Vuitton are beautiful and comfortable (but not always practical for wearing on the streets of NY)."
Kate is wearing a Tibi top, Marni skirt and Louis Vuitton shoes. Photo: Mark Iantosc
Alyssa Surrett, Social Media & Partnership Manager at Harper’s Bazaar
“Fall in New York is my favorite season because I love the crisp weather, plus the leather, sweaters and boots that come along with it. Lately, I have been wearing pieces that speak to the season ahead—like this leather skirt—and pairing them with lightweight separates to survive the humidity. My work dressing philosophy is about mixing one luxury statement piece with high-street basics (and eyelash extensions, always). When I feel confident, I always have a better day.”
Alyssa is wearing a Kit & Ace top, Sandro skirt, Schutz sandals, Proenza Schouler bag and Nars lipstick in Heat Wave.
Rochelle Spratlen, Elana Rosenblatt and Alicia Siemens of Reformation
Rochelle Spratlen, E-Commerce Merchandise Manager
"I dress for comfort and functionality at the office since I'm usually running around."
Elana Rosenblatt, Producer
"I'm usually running late in the mornings, so my outfits are thrown together at the last-minute, but I always try to put something cute together. Our office is pretty laid-back, but obviously most of us are wearing some piece of Reformation. My go-to is our reworked vintage Levi's and the Dan tee. Can't ever go wrong with that!"
Alicia Siemens, Assistant Product Manager
"I usually focus on choosing a flattering silhouette with a few interesting details when putting an outfit together, and I love the hardware detail of this specific dress. When getting dressed for work, it's always important to me to feel comfortable but always try to be stylish! When I'm wearing a good outfit, it keeps me inspired throughout the work day. The office culture is casual and trendy. It's fun to take inspiration from everyone else's style around the office, since everyone has their own unique aesthetic."
Rochelle is wearing a Reformation dress and leather jacket with Birkenstock sandals. Elana is wearing a Reformation dress and Adidas sneakers. Alicia is wearing a vintage dress and shoes with a Reformation top.
Christina Han, Editorial Director at Violet Grey
"I borrowed these killer vintage pants once from [Violet Grey founder] Cassandra for an event but I think I might just keep them forever (don't tell her). I love them for making me feel femme, a little fatale and generally pretty boss. Since I've moved to LA, I quickly transitioned from wearing heels daily to sporting my Tretorn kicks with Levi's and a white tee. Paired with my uniform is La Prairie's Peach Glow cream blush on my cheeks and a swipe of Kjaer Weis' tinted lip balm in Goddess (a life-changing berry stain). My fancy pants collection is preserved for in-office presentations—when I don't plan on taking 'no' as an answer."
Christina is wearing a Prada sweater, vintage pants and Manolo Blahnik pumps. Photo: Robin Black
Courtney Kringstein, Kelsi Rosenberg and Jackie Kim of Barneys New York
Courtney Kringstein, Marketing Manager
"Proenza Schouler's fall collection of juxtaposed prints, mixed fabrics and interesting hemlines is a prime example of why I'm a devotee of the label. Their collection makes it easy for me to go from day to night with a switch of a shoe and added motorcycle jacket. I find Gianvito Rossi heels to be incredibly comfortable—the most important quality for a city girl."
Kelsi Rosenberg, Digital Communications Coordinator
"My office uniform consists of all black, making it really simple to get dressed every morning. This shift dress paired with white Acne boots is the perfect example of how one key accessory can take a work outfit to the next level."
Jackie Kim, Fashion Merchandising Assistant
“Since each day in the fashion office is different than the last, my go-to look consists of a great tailored pant and a crisp top. Its chic and timeless, which means I’m dressed for any unexpected thing that may come my way.“
Courtney is wearing a Proenza Schouler top and Gianvito Rossi heels. Kelsi is wearing an Alexander Wang dress and Acne boots. Jackie is wearing a Maiyet top, Barneys Private Label trousers and heels with a Paco Rabanne bag.
