Here's something that I would wear to work when I have to head straight to dinner without putting on or taking off anything. My first ever client, Ninang Memnet, took Buddy and I out for dinner, because we never got to celebrate their newly renovated home which we finished late last year since we went straight to board exam reviews in Manila. I only got to visit the finished product last summer and we all agreed to plan a dinner then to celebrate our passing the board. So this was it. It's better 8 months late than never, and it's always a joy to see the couple.
Ninang took us to Feria. I like buffeting when I'm out on beach trips with the family (Imperial Palace buffet bring my favorite for its wide-range of cuisines and quality dishes) but it was my first time at a Radisson Blu buffet, and that night what they had was Italian Thursdays. I surveyed the banquet before I picked up a plate and found myself drooling over fresh salads, cold-cuts, various kinds of cheese, bruschettas, pastas. Because I love cheese, anything tomato, fresh spices, red and white sauce, olives, bread, I'm a huge fan of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Even if it was Italian night, there was still a japanese sushi bar, a dimsum corner, a dessert bar, and even a Filipino section at the far end. We were all stuffed silly, I imagined more rounds in my head but only ended up with 3. I need to practice my buffet skills! Thank you, Ninang, for the date. :)
On to the outfit, I wore a glittery knit sweater with my Zara origami skort dupe. Corporate wear varries from work environment to work environment, from industry to industry. Some are strict with slacs and blazers and long skirts but for those who have more freedom or those who are not required to dress corporately (but just want to because it helps you feel more confident like me) here are a few tips:
1.) After I got my professional license, I've been realizing how important thin sweater and pull-overs are to a working girl's wardrobe. They are a great substitute for polos, and can easily look effortlessly chic and stylish when mixed and matched. I never thought I'd fall in love with Uniqlo but now, It's one of my fave places because of their wide range of basics. Glad they're opening here in Cebu soon! (Or am I?) Play with texture, color, print. They're great with pants, great with skirts. They're also great with shorts for lazy weekends!
2.) Low Heels. I dont remember the last time I bought high heels. I used to think: the higher the heel= more value for money but now, I say low heels are a great investment! If you spend on high party heels why not on something you're more likely to wear more often? They are more comfortable, add instant height without the torture, and are the best touch to any corporate look! They make your look appear polished. Pointed shoes and ankle straps are my fave, they look extra classy.
3.) Never forget to wear a watch—preferably, a classic lady’s watch that’s both simple yet chic. Most people equate wearing a time piece to meaning business. It also gives the impression that every second of your working day counts. I'm not sure about the third statement, way too judgemental for me lol, but I think it's a must-have. Didn't realize this also until I owned one. The bf gave one to me on my birthday last year cos he thought "every architect needed one"-- I was still reviewing then.
4.) You are a woman. You don't need to hide it to look tough. You want look professional while retaining your femininity so do pepper your wardrobe or outfit with hints of it, such as lace, soft colors (in my case, some glitter) or even subtle accessories such as... pearl earrings! :)
5.) Prim and Proper. This isn't really applicable to creative industries like mine esp here in Cebu (love the island life!) but we could all use some "prim" when we're meeting clients or attending conferences. So aim for structure. Go for either: structured/ neatly-ironed/ well-tucked in/ geometrically striking pieces. If you want to inject a bit of fun, do it subtly, using scarves, simple jewelry, or a vintage/ colored office bag.
So there. Just a couple of style secrets you may or may not take. Dressing well makes a woman feel more confident and good about herself especially at work. And it surely won't go entirely unnoticed! You never know who you run into through-out the day!
Oh and loose tops are great for buffets! ;)
Later, guys. <3
To add a little more info on Feria, let me quote:
"Another point in Feria's favor is that it changes the theme of its buffet from day to day, and if you time your visit right, you'll end up paying just half the usual rate for a spread this large. That means there's something for everyone on every day of the week. If you love seafood, check out Monday's Fresh Catch (P1,190 net for lunch/dinner). You get an array of selections for half the price on Unbelievable Tuesday (P595 net for lunch/dinner). Take a culinary trip around the world on Wednesday with the international buffet (P1,190 net for lunch/dinner), or savor the flavors of Italy with pizzas, pastas, and more onAmazing Cibo Thursdays (P595 net for lunch/dinner). If you're visiting on a Friday, it's well worth it to go twice over as Feria serves its international buffet for lunch (P1,190 net) and US Prime Rib buffet for dinner (P1,300 net). Lunch or dinner on Saturdays with your family or barkada is all about pigging out on great Chinese food with Feria's Wok on Saturdays (P595 net), while you get to end the week with the international buffet (P1,190) for both lunch and dinner on Sundays." --- www.kristn.com
Feria is the the restaurant on the ground floor of the Radisson Blue Hotel Cebu on Serging Osmeane Boulevard, corner Juan Luna Ave, North Reclamation Area, Cebu City.
**Top: Stylestunner Manila** Skort: Miss Mannequin**Shoes: Fashioncookie
Google them girls, they're all online! ;)
