This merchandise feels a bit lackluster—nice, but not very interesting. Then I spy a truly fabulous cardigan. It’s cream and crocheted with three quarters sleeves and a black grosgrain ribbon belt. I love it. Also, it’s marked down to $69.99 from $128. As I admire my reflection in the mirror, I start to wonder if it’s a bit frou-frou for the office. I ask the saleswoman if she thinks it’s office-appropriate and she replies, “Well … definitely on Casual Friday.” I leave the store empty-handed.
The $500 is burning a hole in my pocket. I decide to hit a shoe store next. Surely I’ll have better luck there.
Bingo. Moments after entering Nine West, I’m admiring a ballet pink peep toe pump. True, ballet pink isn’t usually a color that comes to mind when you’re pondering shoes for the office, but it’s so muted, I think it could really work. A crocodile sling-back in chocolate brown with a pointy toe also catches my eye, so I decide to try on both pairs.
Naturally, I try the pink peep toe first. Curses! It’s way too high—three and a half inches, to be specific—and has super-skinny heels. I knew it was high, but justified my decision to try it on by the fact that most of my time at the office is spent behind a desk. But I’m having a hard time even walking across the store, so I know I’ll have to pass on them. The sling-backs, however, are perfect. With a two-inch heel, they’re comfortable, cute, and versatile. And they’re on sale for $59, from $79. Please take my money!
Next, I head to Nordstrom, where I find another geometric print skirt and lo and behold, it’s by Nine West. The print consists of alternating white circles and starbursts on sturdy black cotton. I prefer it to the Calvin Klein one and it’s much cheaper at $89. Not until I try it on do I realize the cut is completely wrong. It hangs low on my waist and the hem hits me at the fattest part of my calf. I raise the waist and continue raising it until the skirt looks nice. At this point, the hem is at my knee, but the waist is just under my bust. Perhaps if I safety-pinned the skirt to my bra … giggle at that notion and move on.
Talbots. I’ve never been in here before, but from what I can see, the merchandise looks pretty office-appropriate.
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