Closet Confessions: Navigating My Workwear Era

I have to start off by admitting something: my closet is basically a time capsule. I still have treasures dating back the 6th grade (yes, really). I’m a self-proclaimed clothing hoarder and not even ashamed about it. If a piece has a good memory attached to it, or I once loved wearing it, chances are it’s still hanging around. The result? Endless outfit options—but with one small problem. Most of my wardrobe issues have nothing to do with quantity and everything to do with fit… or the fact that a trend just isn’t in style at the moment (it always comes back around though, so into storage it goes).

I’m even attempting a closet clean-out series on TikTok to consolidate the chaos. Key word: attempting. Spoiler—it’s not going very well…oops.

Enter: A New Dress Code

Recently, I started a new position as an event coordinator in the Atlantic City casino industry. Translation: I can no longer roll into work in my beloved matching set and Uggs, or throw on a sweater and jeans. While the adjustment has been… an adjustment, I’m actually having fun building outfits that feel both professional and personal. One of my life mottos is: look good, feel good, do good. And honestly? It applies perfectly here.

Naturally, I celebrated the new job with a shopping spree (I regret nothing). My favorite finds were from consignment shops and Goodwill. I gravitate toward unique blouses—lace, funky patterns, anything with character—and versatile pieces like button-downs and slip dresses that can be layered across seasons. Pro tip: when thrifting, always think about how something pairs with what you already own. My downfall has always been bold colors that don’t match anything… so I’m working on it.

Styling Hacks I Swear By

• Layering: Some of my “less office-appropriate” pieces get a second life when styled with an undershirt or cardigan. A simple tee suddenly looks polished when paired with tailored trousers and a cardigan.

• Sweaters + Dresses: I love throwing a sweater over a long dress or skirt to downplay revealing straps or cutouts. Chic and office-friendly.

• Sorority Closet Perks: Being in a sorority blessed me with an eclectic mix of themed outfits, so now I have a surprisingly broad base to pull from when planning for events.

Dress: Ta-Dah, Cardigan:Marshalls

Shoe Struggles Are Real

One of my hardest realizations? Heels every day are not realistic. Setting up and breaking down event spaces in kitten heels sounds cute in theory—until you’re sprinting across a casino floor with equipment. These days, I rotate between my trusty heels (once or twice a week) and two new pairs of ballet flats.

Confession: flats are tough for me. Most of them make my feet look comically long (clown chic, but not in a good way). After way too much searching, I settled on a mesh pair embroidered with flowers and a sleek black pointed-toe pair. Both are cute, practical, and—most importantly—don’t make me look like I’m auditioning for the circus.

Evolving My Style

Each week I’m finding new ways to merge my style with office expectations, and I can’t wait to see how it evolves. I’m also a proud outfit repeater. If something works, it works—and you will absolutely see me wearing it again. Confidence isn’t about a constantly revolving wardrobe; it’s about knowing what makes you feel unstoppable.

Button down: Marshalls, Sweater: Brandy Melville, Pants: Marshalls (from high school lol)