Work-Life Balance

Now that I've graduated university, it's time to enter into the next chapter of my life: my career. I actually love working partly because it gives me an excuse to dress up everyday. When putting together outfits for work, versatility is definitely a factor I consider if I have after-work plans with friends. T.M. Lewin recently asked me to share some tips for transitioning from the office to the pub, and I thought now would be a very fitting time to tackle the subject!

Of course, the classic solution to making an office look more casual for after-work drinks is to take off one's blazer (a transition that also works really well with men's suits). I took that basic idea and brought it up a notch by playing with colour. Traditional officewear can be a bit drab for a night out, so my advice is to update traditional silhouettes with punchy colours. Here, we have the classic sheath dress, blazer, and pointy-toed pump, but re-imagined in bright red, pure white and periwinkle blue. I also chose a pump in suede (instead of leather) to soften the look. As soon as your Friday night happy hour begins, simply take off your blazer and you'll be left with a statement-making colour-blocked look sure to turn heads.

Dress: Zibi London | Blazer: Alexander McQueen | Shoe: Kristin Cavallari | Handbag: Louis Vuitton | Watch: Skagen | Bracelet: Cartier | Nailpolish: Butter London

When dealing with such bold colours, it's best to stick with clean and simple pieces. After all, stark minimalism is the new name of the game. But remember, as much as you may want to dress with after-work activities in mind - business first, ladies! Never leave home without your black business tote and a watch. With an outfit like this that toes the line between '9 to 5' and 'after 8', get ready to command attention in the boardroom, and attract attention in the bar.