Drinks After Work

Mesh Strap Satiny Dress from bebe

www.bebe.com

So one of my friends sent me on a hunt today to help her find a dress to wear to semi-formal. Now attending a business school, we have to be careful not to just pick any dress and think it'll be ok. We have to keep in mind the length, the fit and the amount of "skin" that is going to be shown. The most important thing to remember that semi-formal dresses are not the same as dresses you wear to a club. What my friend, Katy, asked for was something in either black or rose pink, with a nice neckline, can be worn again afterwards to other occasions and between the range of $100-$200. Whew! Well, I set off on my task (and what an enjoyable one it was!) and came across these three picks that I felt fit Katy's description the best.

The first was a dress from bebe. Simple, chic and feminine. The black and nude contrasting colours give the illusion of greater length in the height and a very slim and narrow waistline. Its satin material makes this dress evoke a simple elegance that is perfect for a semi-formal and can definitely can be worn again afterwards as you can dress this up with lots of accessories or keep it simple with a solid black cardigan or cropped blazer for day or evening wear.

Cocktail Dress from Guess by Marciano

www.marciano.com

My second pick was from Guess by Marciano. Now I find, when picking black dresses, you have to be willing to go for a completely different look, otherwise they start to look all the same. This Adara One Shoulder Taffeta Dress was an instant winner in my books. The asymmetrical look is really trending right now and the details of this dress are all given in great proportions. With a slight flair from the waist down to the rosette effect at the shoulder, this dress will change the way we think about "the little black dress" indefinitely.

Cocktail Dress from Guess by Marciano

www.marciano.com

Finally, my selection wouldn't be complete if I didn't have some pink in the collection. Again from Guess by Marciano, this Antheia Pleated Dress drew my attention instantly because of its sweetheart neckline and the simple pleating from the waist down. When wearing a bold colour like this, you want to keep the details on the dress simple and stylish to keep from being too over the top. The retro look gives it an edge and removable straps make it versatile enough for any occasion.

Hope I was helpful Katy!

Rain, Rain, Go Away

Obey Nightsail Trench from Urban Outfitters

www.urbanoutfitters.com

All this rain in Vancouver has inspired me to hunt down that perfect raincoat that won't make you look like you're wearing a giant garbage bag on top of your clothes. This waxed canvas trench with a button down front and removable hood is great for those dreary, wet days where you dread having to break out that giant rubber raincoat you promised yourself "you wouldn't be caught dead in." The waxed canvas material will prevent water from being absorbed into the coat, and instead will cause it to roll off, for quick and easy drying. And the removable hood makes it quite the versatile piece of clothing. The coat sits right below the hips to protect your precious blouses and tops from the cruel effects of the weather when outside. With a belted waist and cuffs, this jacket can be adjusted to fit any body type. Finally, being trimmed with faux leather long the rounded collar emphasizes the notion that this isn't your average rain coat; but a statement of style that you are not willing to compromise.

Urban Living

Cheap Monday Twin Pant from Urban Outfitters

www.urbanoutfitters.com

I think I'm in love. These twin pants from Urban Outfitters has sexy and sophisticated written all over it. It not only draws attention to those brand new heels of yours, but also draws the eye to the smallest area of your waist, highlighting your hour-glass figure. You can dress this up by pairing it with a blouse, or go more casual with a simple knit sweater.

Little Grey Dress

V-NECK BELTED DRESS FROM BCBGMAXAZRIA

www.bcbg.com

Chic and sexy. This dress hugs just the right spots and accentuates all the right curves. It's perfect for that transition period from Winter to Spring, where we aren't quite ready to let go of our greys nor are we ready to break out the minis. The three-quarter length sleeve and just-above-the-knee length, allows this dress to be worn stylishly at work or when going for a casual night out.

Casual Fridays

Jumper from RW & Co.

www.rw-co.com

Bring trendy back into the workplace with a jumper from RW & Co. Looks great with a short sleeve blazer in any colour of your choice. With summer just around the corner, you want a look that's versatile and can work inside the office or when you heading downtown to meet your girlfriends for some shopping and dinner out on the town.

Sophisticated Lady

100% Silk, Lace Trim Blouse from Armani Exchange

www.armaniexchange.com

The magic of lace. No need to cringe at the sound of "slacks and a blouse" anymore. This silk blouse from armani exchange has sleek and sexy written all over it. The bold, contrasting colours make this wardrobe pick perfect for any season. Wear it with trousers or a high-waisted skirt for a more feminine look.

Spring Wardrobe Essential

Talula Babaton Double Breasted Crinkle Trench Coat from Aritzia www.aritzia.ca

For all those who know that they can't let the sun deceive them that easily. With the first signs of Spring in full bloom, we still aren't quite ready to break out the t's and tanks. So keep your body warm and your style contemporary with a light-weight trench coat from Aritzia. A definite must-have on every working woman's list of wardrobe essentials.