Ask the Experts
fashion
Q
&
A
Leah Norwood of Mosaic
Q: After being a stay-at-home mom for the past 15 years, I am going back into
the work force. I have basically lived in baggy mom clothes, now I’m starting
from scratch. I would like to know what I need to start building a wardrobe.
I have a limited budget, but I want to look fashionable and suitable for work.
I have no clue where to begin.
A: I want to start by saying that I think it shows a great deal of strength and
courage to return to the work force after being a stay-at-home mom for 18 years!
Good for you!
When starting from scratch with your wardrobe, it is important to remember
quality over quantity. Also, try and focus on pieces that are versatile and classic,
and can be styled and worn various ways. The most important staple for any working woman to have is a great pair of black pants. Since you want to get the most
bang for your buck, I would opt for a light to medium weight fabric so they can be
worn year round and not just seasonally. I prefer a skinny or tapered leg pant (like
the J Brand Luxe skinny pant shown) because I think they are very flattering, but it
is important for you to get a pant that you feel great in and that looks professional.
The next item that is a must for every working woman is an impeccable fitting blazer in a neutral hue. I love an ivory blazer like this one by BCBGMAXAZRIA.
There is something very sophisticated and crisp about ivory, but a black, gray or
tan blazer will all prove to be extremely versatile. Again, I think it is important to
stay away from really heavy fabrics so that you aren’t limited to wearing an item
for only part of the year.
Every professional woman needs a great sheath dress that can be worn alone
or layered with a blazer. I have chosen to show a BCBGMAXAZRIA dress in a great
print. You can also go with a solid dress if you feel like it will go with more options.
A great neutral heel is a must. I would lean towards black or nude because
they will go with most outfits. A good heel height is very important if you will be
on your feet a lot at your new job. The Rachel Zoe heel shown is a classic pump
silhouette but with a little flare.
Lastly, you will need several great blouses. A great blouse can be worn so many
ways and can make or break an outfit. I have chosen two Equipment blouses, one
in a great bright blue color and the other in a neutral animal print, that I think
could be worn a plethora of ways. Blouses like these could easily take you from
the office to an after work function and even on a date night.
The key to remember when buying any item for your wardrobe is versatility and
practicality. Some of my favorite items over the years have not necessarily been
the ones I was initially drawn to in a store. They were the ones that I knew were
classic and could be worn a variety of ways and with many different things. Also,
since you have kids, a silk blouse may not be ideal. A blouse made out of a fabric
that is not as delicate might be better. It is important to remember to buy what is
best for you and your life, not what you think you should buy or what other people are wearing. Best of luck to you in this new chapter of your life!
Leah Norwood
58
Mosaic Boutique, Lake City
September 2014
Mosaic is located at 113 W Main St, Lake City
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