We know we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but in career settings, that is inevitably the case. To avoid being the latest water cooler news, it’s important to dress the part … whatever that part may be. Here are a few suggestions for our fabulous career women, from corporate to casual.

• Corporate Professional (Lawyer, Banker, Accountant, Sales, etc.)
  It’s your business to appear strong and credible, so the power suit is a staple. But business doesn’t have to be boring, and the personal style factor is still yours to flaunt. Spice up your basic suit with a floral or lace blouse, and add a skinny belt to wow the judge and jury! Create variations of a suit by mixing and matching blazers, cardigans, trousers and pencil skirts. Accessories are an easy and fun way to add flair to your most basic ensemble. Add a chunky necklace or bright funky shoe, and when they call you super stylish, plead guilty as charged!
• Creative Professional (Artist, Art Curator, Advertising, PR, etc.)
  You live outside of the box, and why not?! Creativity is an important part of your job, so you have more room to be eclectic, fun, and inventive with your wardrobe … while still looking totally put together. You thrive in an atmosphere of inspiration, and your clothes reflect your pursuit of brilliant originality. You don’t follow the trends, you create them. And while you may not call yourself a fashionista, your quirky ensemble today is next year’s runway hit! When you skip down the street, heads turn and people want to follow. Wear a dress over jeans or mix and match casual tanks, tees, and sweaters with dressier skirts or trousers to create unexpected combinations and a look that is uniquely your own.
• Comfort Professional (Teacher, Counselor, Mom)
  You sing a song of sensible style. You’re molding the minds of our future, and that’s a big job! But who says you can’t look good doing it? While you need to look put together and professional, comfort is also crucial in your world. Layers are always a wise choice, as it may be hot on the playground, but cool in your staff meeting or field trip to the museum. Mix-and-match pieces like cute cardigans, tees, and light jackets are most likely to succeed with comfortable trousers like CAbi’s Lauren, Linen, or Denim. Printed pants are also a great option to easily camouflage spots of chalk, paint, and dirt, so even after the art project, you’re sure to be voted best dressed!

Blazers are hot this season, and are easy to incorporate into your wardrobe. Throw one on over a tee shirt, jeans, and a chic pair of heels, and you’ll instantly ooze style. On the other hand, layering a blazer over a dress, skirt, or trouser adds chic sophistication and personality to an otherwise dull palette. Whether you’re going for corporate or casual, elegant or eclectic, a blazer can be just what you need to finish your look. CAbi’s Nob Hill Jacket is a great neutral option that looks equally sharp dressed down with jeans for casual Friday or paired with a trouser to meet with clients.

But remember, ladies, when rocking the menswear trend, it shouldn’t look like you raided your husband’s closet! Embrace your feminity and show your shape! A curved seam at the torso mimics the curve of your body and typically provides a more flattering fit. The shoulder seam should hit right at the outer edge of your shoulder - you should be able to move your arms around, but we don’t want you drowning in fabric. The sleeves should hit at the knuckle of your thumb and are intentionally narrower for a sleek silhouette.

In the famous words of dear ol’ Dolly, we’re working nine to five … so what then? In the fast paced world of today, there’s no time to waste between the office and your next icalendar commitment. So make the most of each valuable moment, and don’t let your outfit hold you back. Change up the shoes and accessories, shed the cardigan or blazer, and you’re ready to go for a fun evening out. Accessories can work transformational wonders on simple dress, which make it a perfect choice to transition from day to night, but a skirt or pant with a cute little top is also a great option!

Looking to revamp your work wardrobe without feeling wasteful? This is a perfect opportunity to donate your classics. Dress for Success is an organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire and support to help them thrive, both in work and in life. Click on the link below to learn how you can support Dress for Success and make a difference in another woman’s life by donating new or gently used business attire and accessories. www.dressforsuccess.org

CAbi’s in the spotlight! The Socialite Sweater, Sorbet Swirl Cardigan, and Floral Bolero made their network debut on ABC’s In the Motherhood. Be sure to check out new episodes of this stylish show Thursdays at 8/7c on ABC.

Zac Efron’s mom bloomed with pride in her Petal Jacket and Lace Top in the audience of the Ellen Degeneres Show. Catch new episodes of Ellen weekdays at 3pm on the WB.