Style expert Bobbie Thomas dishes on working girl fashion for fall

Sep 25, 2012 2:00 PM by Catherine Conelly

Posted in Beauty & Style / Fashion & Style / Fashion News & Trends

SheKnows: How would you advise women to dress professionally without sacrificing style?

Bobbie Thomas: Invest in classic clothing staples and use accessories to express your personality. A polished, tailored wardrobe offers a professional canvas to accent with your personal touches. It's important to also consider the following...

Skin should never be the 'striking' part of your look and don't wear jewelry that makes noise or shoes that you can't walk in confidently. More is less in general, but especially at the office. Signature items, such as fashion forward flats, unique brooches or statement scarves, look particularly chic with business basics.

SheKnows: What are some specific pieces you’re loving right now?

Bobbie Thomas: I live in basics. I'm eternally collecting T-shirts, leggings, etc. with small updated details such as leather trimming. And handbags. I heart handbags. Many designers are reinventing classic shapes with color, while others are experimenting with new textiles. The juxtaposition of a modern element, like a stud, against a refined ladylike tote makes everyone happy.

SheKnows: Who are your favorite fashion bloggers to follow?

Bobbie Thomas: I pop around to hundreds of blogs, from teen and tween bloggers to Ari Seth Cohen’s site Advanced Style which features stunning photos of fashionable women over the age of 60. It's a "must-bookmark."

There are so many other unique points of view out there. All I can say is thank goodness for Pinterest, which helps me keep all of my inspiration organized. And as a longtime crafting addict, I'm excited to see a new generation of DIY style blogs. Erika Domesek’s P.S. I Made This is a fun runway-inspired site and I'm excited to be judging the Fiber One Snackcessory Challenge with her.

"I live in basics. I'm eternally collecting T-shirts, leggings, etc. with small updated details such as leather trimming. And handbags. I heart handbags."

SheKnows: What are your fall must-haves?

Bobbie Thomas: This fall it’s all about embellishment and detail. Luxe lacquers with shimmer and dark, vampy nail shades are a fresh update to summer's pastels and neons.

Ciaté recently released a velvet manicure kit that offers a unique textured touch, while Red Carpet Manicure recently launched new gel nail art kits.

You can also find gold leaf appliques, gemstone topcoats and regal-inspired prints to play with. Ornate earrings and bejeweled barrettes are other small touches that can add some major drama.

SheKnows: Finally, what do you think a girl should never leave home without?

Bobbie Thomas: My handbag! Who doesn't ... but I'm particular about what I carry with me. There’s nothing chic about being caught without an umbrella, wearing uncomfortable heels (hence my foldable flats), or feeling hunger pangs when you’re on the go. Fiber One Bars are my go-to. I always have them with me – preferably in my Snackcessory, a DIY designed case to stash your favorite bar.

I'm excited to share this idea, because I've partnered with Fiber One to host the Fiber One Snackcessory Challenge, in which we will be giving away $500 to nine finalists, and one Grand Prize trip for two to NYC to join me at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in February 2013!

We want your Snackcessory designs! Visit FiberOne.com for more details, and feel free to check out the images on my Pinterest page for inspiration.

(Editor's note: Seriously, see how crafty everyone is getting with these cute clutch ideas!)

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Fashion Week fun: Take notes from a style expert

Photo credit: Ray Filmano/Wenn.com

Tags: fashion tips

Comments

Comments on "Style expert Bobbie Thomas dishes on working girl fashion for fall"

I loved this interview with Bobbie Thomas. She really seems to know her fashion! I like that she said to keep your business attire casual and show off your personality with accessories. That's great advice! Especially since accessories tend to be cheaper, you can change them up more often.