The 9 to 5 Series, Part 1: The Rule

Time to talk about our 9 to 5 closet or in my case the 7 to 3, or for others the 2 to 12, or for some what feels like the 24/7. Whatever your work schedule may be, this post is for you. When I surveyed new readers, many wanted guidance on work clothes. You wanted to know what are some fun work styles I can wear to transition from my job to my son's soccer game or happy hour? What work staples do you consider a must have and how many blazers is just too much? I plan to address all these questions in my 9 to 5 series.

In this post we will start with what we have in our closet and although the dress code for all jobs can vary, suggestions can always be modified to fit your individual needs.

The 9 to 5 Rule

This is an easy one to remember: 5 of everything and no more than 9 of anything. This rule is a guide in the pursuit of what I like to call "reasonable closet minimalism" (remember I am a recovering clothes junkie). So in the world of work clothes we usually require 5 of everything and no more than 9 of anything. This concept can apply to most work situations (and really any part of your closet, but we are focusing on work for now). Think about it: Most of us have a 5 day work week, there are obviously 7 days to the week and every clothes lover (or laundry hater) likes a little wiggle room.

The Workdrobe

Hopefully at this point you have already completed "The Plan" from my earlier post. If not, no worries, we can do a digestible chunk now by taking a look at the items in your closet you would consider wearing for work. For the most part these should be separate from other clothes. Remember, our goal is simplistic style and while we are not here to be Steve Jobs (he wore the same thing everyday), we want efficiency and clarity when it's time to get ready for the day. Nobody wants to be filtering through cocktail dresses when we are looking for our favorite boss lady suit for your kick ass presentation.

With me? Let's get started. So we now have an idea how many items should be in each category (9-5), we need to know what are the categories? (Note: These can be doubled up to account for seasonal changes: see pants and dresses).

• camisoles/sleeveless

• button down/dress shirt

• sweaters

• cardigans

• blazers/suit jackets/suits (this may vary depending on the formality of your work)

• pants (These may switch/overlap seasonally such as 5 pants winter, 5 capris summer)

• skirts

• dresses (Dress lover? You may want to make these seasonal; ie. 5 cold weather, 5 warm weather)

• shoes (Boots not included. Although you may wear them to work, I would consider boots a specific seasonal item not an essential work shoe)

Go ahead, count them out. Where do your numbers fall? If you have more than 9 of anything - donate the ones that aren't your favorite. Only 3 shoes you wear to work consistently? Maybe it's time to add a few staples (that post is coming).

Disclaimer: THIS IS ONLY A GUIDE. These categories can vary and you need to make them your own. Maybe you don't have a job where wearing a suit or blazer would be necessary (just cross it off the list). Don't like dresses (one less thing to focus on). Simplistic style and elegance is about what YOU want out of it and is not a one size fits all. One thing is definite, whether you prefer a feminine flare or an "I can hang with the boys" pants suit, when your closet is organized efficiently you save time in your day and feel self-assured in your style. Our workdrobes, just like the individual talents we bring to our careers, are our expression of confidence saying, "I got this. Time to take on the day and show the world I mean business."

***For closet/fashion services contact liliesandlace11@gmail.com

Coming soon in the 9 to 5 Series:

• Part 2: Sensible Staples and Signature Sparkle

• Part 3: The Lynda Carter Edition