The Devil Wears Prada Summer Workplace Inspiration at T.J.Maxx & Marshalls

It’s officially summertime and the weather is already starting to get hot! It’s amazing how once that hot summer weather hits, the revealing and sometimes inappropriate outfits come out in scores! I think it starts making many of us women wonder, what exactly is appropriate summer style? To help answer that question, T.J.Maxx and Marshalls partnered with Style Expert, Lindsay Albanese to offer tips, all inspired by the still-classic outfits worn in The Devil Wears Prada – and just in time for the iconic movie’s 10^th year anniversary on June 30^th!

Lindsay Albanese Tips

Sharp and Streamlined Gets the Job Done: Blazers are the best way to create instant sophistication in the workplace and help show off a perfectly slimming silhouette. My favorite way to style a blazer is to pair it with designer boyfriend jeans, a simple tee and colorful pumps or sleek flats. You can find this entire look at places like T.J.Maxx and Marshalls, all quality pieces at incredible prices. If jeans are frowned upon in your office, try slightly loose fitted cropped trousers or jogger style pants in a quality fabric for a more effortless and refined summer look.

Get Down to Business in All White: Summer doesn’t always mean you have to wear vibrant colors. In fact, a monochromatic cream and white ensemble has the same impact as wearing a bright color. Try mixing various textures to add interest and dimension like a clean light-knit sweater with lace sleeves or designer dress with a subtle pattern. For those who are a little apprehensive about white adding bulk, be sure to select structured, tailored, and A-line pieces to create clean lines against your frame.

Layer up from 9-5: When the temperatures are scorching outside and it’s consistently chilly inside, lightweight layering will be your best friend. The key to acing this is to experiment with new ways to layer your everyday classics over or under your clothing. Try pairing your basic tee under a sleeveless dress, wearing a lightweight button up as outerwear or layering a tunic over a slip dress. From layering pieces to designer dresses, places like T.J.Maxx and Marshalls carry quality items to master the temperature changes and make a fashion statement.

Turn up the Heat with Texture: Amp up your office style with texture by incorporating three different and distinct fabrics such as suede, silk and a lightweight knit or denim topper. Suede can create an elegant contrast when worn with weightless silk and adding an additional knit or denim element can further add dimension.  You can also anchor your outfit with one item that is a matte or twill fabric to offset bold textures. It’s all about mixing and matching so don’t be afraid to play around with the fabrics!

Accessorize and Work it: Accessories are the ultimate way to show off your individual style, especially if you’re in a more corporate work environment. Whether it’s a metallic tote, bold wedge or lightweight printed scarf, stores like T.J.Maxx and Marshalls carry on-trend accessories to help transform your summer look. Dresses are an easy way to stay cool and my favorite accessory is a belt – woven, canvas or rope! By simply cinching a belt around a shapeless dress, it becomes a more figure flattering frock.

Don’t Try to Skirt the Rules:  When hot, sticky summer weather hits, a breezy skirt is always a fool-proof idea – it’s the perfect combination of comfort and class! From midi to maxi and skater to pencil, the cut and movement of a skirt is wildly feminine and elegant. Go full-on feminine with a polished tucked in blouse and pumps or channel your own street style moment with a tee and fun flats. Remember to keep the short skirts for the weekend – typically nothing should be shorter than mid-thigh during working hours!

General Workplace Style Tips:

Happy Hour Hustle: When transitioning your look from day to night, or work to happy hour, I like to make little tweaks that create a big impact. Swap out your everyday bag for a clutch, throw on a new pair of heels and some jewelry to instantly transition your look into a night out-worthy ensemble. Last but not least, a little makeup refresh and spritz of perfume will complete your 5 minute makeover!

Polished Always Prevails: No matter how casual your office environment, it’s important to never cross the line of being too casual. Office attire rules vary, but a general guideline is to ask yourself if your outfit would be acceptable to wear in front of your client or senior manager. To nail the perfect casual Friday outfit, remember it should be one part relaxed and one part refined. This could be as easy as jeans or a denim skirt paired with a tee shirt and a festive or conservative flat.
When in Doubt, Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Out: For those starting new jobs, it never hurts to ask what the appropriate attire is. A few winning looks that have mass boss appeal without sacrificing on style, include fun solid or printed blouses paired with cropped trousers and a dressy flat or streamlined pump. Chambray mixed with black is always a nice play on dressed up casual, so try a chambray blouse tucked into a pencil skirt or tailored black pants with a pop of jewelry.

What is your favorite summer workplace inspired look from Devil Wears Prada?

I received a promotional item to thank me for participating. All opinions are mine.