How To Dress For The Career That You Want
Manifesting your destiny includes dressing for your dream job.
A wise man once said that you have to act on the level you're expecting, and dressing for the elevation you desire is a part of that manifestation. My mentor once told me that you have to treat everyday on your current job like an interview. That means giving your absolute best, from your skillset to your style choices. Of course, this will vary across job fields because an aspiring principal may not have the same capsule wardrobe as a fashion designer.
To some degree, dressing your best shows your executive proficiency which can lead to a promotion. And let's be real, we judge every book by its cover because it gives insight on the pages in the book. When choosing your signature career style, be intentional about what that first impression will represent. Those daily impressions can affect your career trajectory so we want to be sure you have some tips and tricks for your next level.
Next find some looks that prepare you for that coming advancement!
For the teacher who wants to be a principal...
Being a school leader comes with many responsibilities. Dressing the part should be at the top of the list. As a principal, your capsule wardrobe isn't complete without a slew of dresses varying in style and patterns. Pencil skirts and blouses are also a must. While we love Aichata's strappy sandals, we know a good principal in training will have a comfy pair of flats or sneakers near by.
For the lawyer trying to make partner...
Beverly Beal is "Legally Brown" in all the best ways. And she started by using her wardrobe to declare her next level as her best level. As a lawyer, a good, tailored suit can go a long way. For example, Beverly opted to wear her suit as a one hitter quitter but she can also rock each piece with other staples. On one day, the pants can be worn with a ruffle top and leopard flats. On another day, the blazer can be worn with a polka dot pencil skirt. The variety is endless!
For the fashion blogger becoming a fashion designer...
In your new line of work as a fashion designer, risk-taking is all-important. Search for bold pieces that reveal your vivid imagination and ability to pair balanced staples. Designers are also known to don all-black with their extensive work behind the scenes.You'll need to find the sweet spot of knowing when to show out and when to keep it low key.
For the assistant vying to be a CEO...
CEOs command every room they walk in and in order for you to do that, you will need to cop some boss pieces. It doesn't matter what company you'll be heading, you want to style yourself in a way that exudes power. From intricate detailed staples like Sade's pants to the bold red lip, her entire getup oozes boss babe. And there's style inspiration everywhere but make sure you also keep to your own unique aesthetic.
For the writer that wants to be an editor...
With all of your creative juices flowing, don't forget to let some of those juices spill over into your wardrobe. Don't be afraid to wear unconventional pieces; they will grab the attention of your boss just as you grab the attention of your readers. Take a note from Elaine, she took these pajamas and made them super high fashion by pairing them with stilettos and simple, dainty jewelry.
For the TA aiming for the professor position...
Abena looks like she's ready to take on the world in her slip dress and button down. We love the dress layering for the days leading into the fall semester. Professors often have to run from classroom to classroom, so why not be gone with the wind fabulous in a breathable frock and comfy flats? The backpack and watch are also ideal for this line of work.
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Featured image by PeopleImages/Getty Images
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Joce Blake is a womanist who loves fashion, Beyonce and Hot Cheetos. The sophistiratchet enthusiast is based in Brooklyn, NY but has southern belle roots as she was born and raised in Memphis, TN. Keep up with her on Instagram @joce_blake and on Twitter @SaraJessicaBee.
ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
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Rihanna Talks Shedding Expectations And Finding Balance As A Mother
Since becoming a mother in 2022, Rihanna has defined parenthood by her terms and hopes to pass that sense of autonomy on to her children.
For Vogue China’s April cover story, Rihanna shared her perspective on raising her two sons with A$AP Rocky, and how she hopes to preserve her children’s uniqueness, devoid of societal expectations.
"The most beautiful thing...is that [children] come into the world with their own individuality and sincerity, without any logic or conformity,” she told the publication. “Which usually makes you feel that you must fit into a certain group."
The “Work” artist, known for her trendsetting style and captivating persona, expressed her desire to support children in fully embracing their individuality and encouraging them to be whoever they want to be. "It's really beautiful to see and I want to continue to help them navigate that and make sure that they know they can be whoever they want to be,” she says.
She continues, “They should embrace it completely, because it's beautiful, and it's unique. I love them just that way."
From shattering music charts to shaking up the beauty industry, Rihanna has forged a path that has since created the “dream” life we see today. One that she says has made her parents proud of.
“I’m living my dream,” she continued. “My parents were very proud of that because they just wanted me to be happy and successful. So, I think the key thing is to find some kind of balance. Yes, balance is important. Do this and you get the best of both worlds. You can write your own life the way you want, and it will be beautiful. Sometimes, you just need to let go of everyone’s expectations and start living your own story.”
Rihanna, who shares sons, RZA, 23 months, and Riot, 8 months, with rapper A$AP Rocky, recently shared her vision for expanding her family in the future in Interview Magazine.
When stylist Mel Ottenberg asked about the number of additional children she hoped to have, Rihanna replied, "As many as God wants me to have.”
"I don't know what God wants, but I would go for more than two. I would try for my girl,” she adds. “But of course, if it's another boy, it's another boy."
Featured image by Neil MockfordWireImage
