Sonnets of Style

Seven months have flown by, and it feels like just yesterday that I started commuting into DC. Ever since May, my office has gone back to work five days a week, so I’ve had barely enough time over the weekends to do my chores. Some weekends I don’t even finish them, but that has honestly taught me to show more grace to myself and others. Rather than striving for perfection, I’m working to do what I can and be at peace if one bathroom out of the four bathrooms at my house hasn’t been cleaned!

Another thing too about return to the office other than my house being in disarray is the fact that I have a limited amount of time in the morning to get dressed. As a result, I’ve formed a habit of planning out my outfits on Sunday evening. I’ve found so much peace of mind doing this and also it’s afforded me a new creative outlet.

A few weeks ago, over Labor Day Weekend, I poked into Ann Taylor Factory, my husband coming along for moral support (and also because he has a military ID and AT gives out military discounts!). While there, I found a cute V-neck floral print long sleeve blouse and a maroon pencil skirt (pictured below). I’m realizing that at Ann Taylor Factory, I’m a size 2. Sizing is the main reason I don’t like purchasing Ann Taylor pieces from their main store online. Once I bought an adorable fuchsia sweater in XS. The day I tore open the packaging I realized that it was labeled as an XS but it fit like an XL! As a result, I’m a firm believer in going to your nearby mall to try items on (especially at Ann Taylor) before purchasing.

Throughout the past 7 months of return to office, I’ve fallen in love again with pairing together pieces I’ haven’t worn since pre-COVID and merging them into chic office outfits. In light of this challenge, I sported a work ensemble consisting of a knee length maroon dress purchased last year at Ann Taylor Factory with my new black blazer and black Cole Han kitten heels I purchased in 2019.

For years I’ve procrastinated about sharing my ideas, but today I’ve realized that I want to share the ideas I have with working women everywhere. Who you are isn’t defined by what you wear, and yet it can still buoy your confidence in that big meeting, interview or just everyday life! My grandma serves as my inspiration, as she always dressed up when I was younger – wearing kitten heels and silk scarves while running errands and going to appointments.

I hope you all can be inspired by my lovely Jackie – O reminiscent Grandma. Keep your head held high and come back soon for more fun outfit ideas!

Aimee