From Office Hours to Happy Hours…

September 18, 2012

Well, it’s finally here . . . the Annual Legislative Conference of the Congressional Black Caucus. While the week will be full of thoughtful workshops about various social policies and wonderful celebrations highlighting the accomplishments of the African American community, for women like me this week is oh so much more. As Helena Andrews stated so aptly in her memoir Bitch Is the New Black, “CBC is to single-black-chick Washington [what] Fleet Week is to single-white-gal New York.” With highly credentialed politicians, lawyers, professors and artists traveling across the country for the conference, every night will be filled with happy hours and mixers.

Now, I know I’ve talked about transitioning from day-to-night before on this blog. However, during CBC week it’s important (well, at least to me) to continue to look professional while socializing at this lounge or that fancy restaurant. Plus, Congress is still in session for at least part of the week, so I will have to look polished while attending meetings and hearings on Capitol Hill during the day. So….what’s a girl to do? Put together outfits that will take me from office hours to happy hours and look appropriate, yet stylish for both. Generally, I’m thinking that I have three basic options:

1. Bold, colorful blazers. No matter what, a blazer automatically dresses up your look. By going for a funky blazer – say in a bright, bold color or unique pattern – you are able to fit in at the office and stand out at the bar.

2. Flirty pencil skirts. If you are a little too shy to rock a bold blazer (or, say, if you have a Very Important Meeting with Very Important People during the day) you may want to go for a simple blazer in a standard, solid color. However, you can still wear a flirty pencil skirt – perhaps with peplum or ruffles across the bottom or, if you’re really feeling daring, an animal print pattern.

3. Pretty dresses. As First Lady Michelle Obama demonstrated at the Democratic National Convention, a pretty dress will take you everywhere you need to be. You can always cover up with a standard blazer during the day to conceal your curves, if necessary.

The rest of your look can and should be pretty basic – simple flats or pumps, structured purse, basic (or bold!) accessories – all depends on you! Here are a few pieces to inspire your look!