Going from Desk to Drinks in 5 Minutes Flat

Blazer: Mustard Seed via Goodwill (Similar Splurge // Save); Camisole: Express; Skirt: H&M via Goodwill (Similar Splurge // Save); Shoes: Steve by Steve Madden via Goodwill (in black) (Similar Splurge // Save); Necklace: Gifted, (Similar Here) Purse: Gigi New York via Rent the Runway (in white)

Blazer: Daily Look, old (Similar Here) ; Camisole: Express; Skirt: H&M via Goodwill (Similar Splurge // Save); Shoes: BCBG via Goodwill (Similar Splurge // Save); Necklace: Express, old (Similar Here) Purse: Gigi New York via Rent the Runway (available here in white)

As a culture, we are CONSTANTLY on the go. For those in the professional world, the work day can quickly turn into happy hours, dinner with girlfriends, or date night with your S/O. The working girl/socialite struggle is so real. You barely have time to finish your Starbucks before it gets cold much less run home between work and social commitments. So do you overdress for a post-work event or wear your boring black pants and basic button-up to the hip new bar for gossip and cocktails with girlfriends? Luckily, you don’t have to pick either.  Here are five quick and easy tips for taking your look from desk to drinks in 5 minutes flat.

Step 1 – Layer (30 seconds)

Change your top layer. Conservative cardigans and blazers are great for the office and the aggressive AC unit, but removing the top layer revealing a silk camisole underneath or replacing with a trendy layer like this taupe long vest or a leather jacket will elevate the look for night.

Step 2  – Shoes (1 minute)

Shoes make the outfit, right? My work shoes are mostly flats or modest low heels. There’s no easier way to elevate any outfit than to put on a killer pair of heels. A pair of statement heels turns a basic black sheath into a chic and sexy outfit for dinner.

Step 3 – Jewelry (30 seconds)

Small changes like jewelry can have a HUGE impact. Keep a couple of statement pieces at your desk or in your work tote to replace conservative daytime accessories.

Step 4 – Hair (1.5 minutes)

When I’ve had a hard day at work, my hair shows it. My extra ten minutes of hair prep in the morning is destroyed by heat, humidity, twirling, and maybe a “get sh*t done” bun. (That’s a top knot, y’all.) I like to pull my hair back for evening events if I don’t have time to touch up my disheveled waves. A low chignon is simple, chic, and only requires a hair tie and bobby pins.

Step 5 – Lips (1 minute)

 I always have several colors of lipstick/glosses in my purse, a matte mauve for work, a deep red/burgundy for after hours, and something in between. Topping off your after-hours look with a bright bold lip will freshen your look for evening.

Step 6 – Check Yo Self (30 seconds)

 Bravo! You just turned your conservative office look to a chic and trendy evening outfit in less than 5 minutes. Make any last minute touches and give yourself a pat on the back for being a girl boss  on-the-go.

Do you have any other tips for transitioning your look from desk to drinks? Leave me a comment below!