Pretty Suited

Working in the office nowadays isn’t quite the same as the era of Mad Men, where distinguished suits, short-sleeved button ups, and in-office smoking were professional norms. With employee engagement at the forefront these days, much effort has been made into creating a welcoming, yet productive work environment for diverse professionals—both in-office and remotely.

Regardless of the office environment, there are still ways to connect with your co-workers AND show off your individuality without breaking the bank!

Consignment stores and thrift stores have both become extremely popular over the past decade for a number of reasons. While often times used synonymously, the terms “thrift” and “consignment” actually mean different things. Consignment stores normally pay individuals for the items received to sell in their store or online, whereas thrift stores typically receive “donations” from individuals without paying for them.

Either way, these secondhand items usually go for a lower price that what the original owner paid for them, including brand names, vintage items, and rare favorites.

Here are 5 cool fashion finds and decor tips that will spice up those water cooler conversations and remote happy hours!

1. Oversized Blazers

It is no question that tailored suits will always be in style. Often times, these types of suits represent a high quality, executive-like appearance within the workplace. However, over the decades, we have seen an evolution in professional attire.

While properly fitted suites have been the standard for many years, the style made a drastic change in the 90s and padded shoulders and oversized blazers were essential to women’s fashion.

Like many other things, oversized blazers have made a comeback, and if styled correctly, can make a huge fashion statement at the office. Often times paired with fitted jeans or capri pants, these blazers exude confidence and individuality for many professional environments, networking events, and after work functions!

Need to find items that will pair perfectly with your new consignment or thrifted blazer? Bring your budget-friendly style together with this special offer from Ashley Stewart (Use offer code: ASEB23 for an extra 15% off —valid through 4/29/23).

2. Antique Jewelry

Let’s face it, most outfits don’t come together perfectly without the right jewelry pieces that make it POP! Whether costume jewelry or genuine metals, there is something about a refined ring, necklace, earring, broach, or bracelet that can turn a simple ensemble into a sophisticated statement.

Now don’t expect Rose’s Titanic blue diamond to show up in the jewelry section of your local store. However, you can find some really nice pieces with bold colors and unique designs that you may not find anywhere else.

For health and safety reasons, it is suggested that any jewelry purchased should be cleaned thoroughly before use with jewelry cleaner, baking soda, or any other non-toxic solutions that won’t tarnish the material.

3. Snazzy Tote Bag

Most corporate professionals or business owners can’t do much without a laptop computer or tablet, paper documents, notepads, or any other essential items that help make the day run smoother. Therefore, add a little flare to your routine by gathering these items together in a unique tote, laptop bag, or backpack that displays something meaningful to you.

Popular quotes, fantasy characters, or sports teams on your bag are perfect ways to express yourself at work while still maintaining professionalism, as well as provide great talking points to discover common interests with your coworkers.

4. Desk Organizers

Have you ever walked past someone’s cubicle or took a glimpse at the background of someone’s home office and it looked like a tornado just ran through it? Yeah—I think we all have.

Don’t be the subject of office gossip, but instead have everyone complimenting you on how your space looks so chic! Most thrift or consignments shops have what appears to be a “miscellaneous” section where you can find pretty much anything, including artificial desk plants, kitchen equipment, vases, sconces, and office supplies.

Desk organizers are a great way to keep your space stylish and neat for projects, meetings, and strict deadlines. Choose any style you’d like—including wood for a “home-y” feel or gold for a contemporary look.

5. Statement Coffee Mug

In that same miscellaneous section, there is usually one coffee mug that represents you to a tee. You know, the one with the cats, Harry Potter quote, or holiday theme on it that makes you smile every time you take a sip.

Outside of being a simple conversation starter, these eclectic pieces provide a sense of comfort and convenience for your favorite beverage. Not only are mugs eco-friendly, but easy to clean in between meetings in the staff lounge.

(Psst!—Just be sure to not leave it hanging around or someone might snag it!)

Embracing your style and space are key ways to show up and show out at work, but no one says that you have to bust your budget to do so.

While it may be a new trend to shop at thrift and consignment stores, there is something to be said about finding unique treasures for a bargain!

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