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Can I Wear Polka Dots To Work?

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Style Strategy

Certain patterns or prints can sometimes be difficult to wear in a conservative corporate workplace particularly if they're cute or playful. Of course, there's nothing wrong with fun. Fashion is all about fun and I try to incorporate it in my outfits as often as I can. But cute at my place of work? As a personal preference, not so much. Because I'm petite, I'm already predisposed to being labelled cute so I'd rather not encourage that characterization with my outfits. One guideline I like to follow is to keep the print in relatively small doses like on a scarf or a blouse like this J.Crew Factory Polka Dot Popover Blouse:

Combine the "fun" element with something a bit more conservative like this non-traditional suit and you can still be taken seriously in a conservative workplace.

J.Crew Factory Polka-dot Popover, $69.50 / Theory Lanai Tailor Blazer , $385  / Theory Testra Pant, $265/ LAUREN Ralph Lauren Adena shoes, $69 / Marc Jacobs Medium Leather Bag, $1695 / Michael Kors Brookton Watch, $250/ BCBGMAXAZRIA Multi-Chain Ring, $34

This blouse is so easy to pair with because its black and white and therefore incredibly versatile if you're inclined to wear it with a bit of color:

 

J.Crew Factory Polka-dot Popover, $69.50 / Cédric Charlier slim fit blazer, $890 / Theory Emery Trousers, $265 / MIA pointed-toe pumps, $69 / Proenza Schouler PS13 purse, $2495 / Forever 21 square bracelet, $5.80 / Maison Boinet Vachetta Leather Belt, $185

Or maybe your workplace is considerably less formal and you can go all out with color:

J.Crew Factory Polka-dot Popover, $69.50 / even&odd cotton cardigan, $51 / Zara Pencil Skirt, $59 / Charlotte Olympia heart shoes, $795 / Michael Kors Selma, $358 / Michael Kors Runway watch, $250 / Topshop Belt, $24

Is there an item in your closet with a cute and playful print that you avoid wearing to work out of fear that you won't be taken seriously?

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