Last week in Defining Casual Friday With Style (  https://myfashionforwardblog.wordpress.com/2012/11/01/fashion-friday-the-best-in-casual-style/ ), we explored the rules for using patterns in the workplace.  Today’s casual Friday lesson poses a simple question. Is a lace top appropriate for the office environment? The answer is a resounding yes. If lace is styled correctly, it can be completely office appropriate. First, think about color. If you are making a statement with texture, in this case the lace, avoid also making a statement with color. Choose a neutral color like black or tan to round out your look. In the case of lace, avoid a color like white even though it is technically is a neutral. White lace always comes off looking like a wanna be bride or a 1980’s streetwalker. Either way neither look is office appropriate. In this case, I chose a black lace top as the basis for my look.

I chose the bolero style jacket as my layering piece because of the inverted shape. When you are petite, it is important to find ways to add height whenever possible. In this case the jacket structure adds to the illusion that I am taller than 4’11. I completed the outfit with my trusty trouser jean. This wardrobe staple is a must have for every woman. The trouser jean will serve you well on Casual Friday as well as evening occasions where dress code rules are in question. It is always better to overdress than to underdress when there is doubt, and the trouser jean is simple to dress up. To dress up a trouser jean simply add a blazer and a collared top and you are style ready.

Casual Friday is a great opportunity to set yourself apart from others in the office. A stylish appearance shows that you care about yourself and your position within the organization. Style is power and if you follow these simple guidelines you can catapult yourself to the top of the office food chain.