Wear to Work: Classic Short Sleeve Sheath

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When I have to travel for work, which is frequently, I bring a few sleek sheath dresses. I find they pack well, can be dressed up or down and always feel appropriate.  A dress is ideal for business travel, or any time you have to get ready for the office in a jiffy. 

When shopping for an appropriate work dress, I look for a few things: simple lines, comfort, and great fit.  

Thankfully, you don’t have to spend a fortune for a quality piece. In fact, I’ve picked up several structured dresses for at or around $100 recently. Like this ponte knit sheath for $98 at Nordstrom. 

 

Dress, $98  |  Heels, $128  |  Bags, $245  |  Earrings, $29  |  Bracelet, $39 

Sometimes I wish my style was a bit more interesting, but I am who I am. I don’t like fussy clothing, but I do like a classic piece with a twist. This dress seems as basic as it comes, with good stretch and a practical sleeve. 

But turn it around, and you’ll see a v-neck and gold zipper running down the back. It’s not over the top or overtly sexy, so you can still wear it to work, yet it’s a subtle wink to personality.

It runs true to size, up to an XL which fits a size 14. Also available in Navy. Plus size? Calvin Klein has a similar dress in four colors up to a size 22W. Petite? Try this longer sleeve option at WHBM. 

For shoes, I’m using these tortoiseshell patent leather pumps from Ann Taylor. I bought them last month and broke them out just last weekend. Happy to report they are quite comfortable.  They kind of work like a neutral and add some much need interest.

They’re also versatile. I wore them on Friday night to dinner with black joggers, a white blouse and denim jacket.  (I’m going to do better with taking photos of my actual outfits. We were lucky to get out the door in one piece last Friday.) 

Need a great laptop bag? We recommended a few fantastic totes for work last month including this one from Dagne Dover.  It comes in black, blue and gray. It’s timeless and worth the investment. 

Finally, for jewelry, consider the back zipper when picking out what to wear. If I wear my hair down, these pretty drop earrings by Something Navy add movement and interest. If my hair is pulled back, a simple, oversized stud would be the way to go.  

Because the neckline dips in the back, I skip a necklace and opt for bracelets, like these layering bangles. 

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