When I started my business 15 years ago I never wore jeans to work. Problem was, I am a jeans person, always have been. It wasn't until I got comfortable enough in my job that I let go of the notion that I needed to be something I wasn't and started wearing jeans when seeing clients. While my job may look glamorous, my work can get quite physical and I have spent plenty of time sitting on the dirty floors of department stores, making jeans quite ideal. Thankfully, I am in a position where I can call my own shots with how I choose to dress. I know this isn't the case with everyone.
With workplaces becoming more relaxed, wearing jeans to work continues to become more acceptable. However, just like me, wearing jeans and wearing jeans are two totally different things when it comes to wearing them professionally. The permission to wear jeans does not mean what you would wear the same jeans you would to go food shopping on the weekends. Attention needs to be paid to how a professional jeans look is created, same as anything else you would wear to your workplace. To give you some ideas, I put together five jeans to work looks using this pair from Madewell. Check the outfits out below.
Five Ways to Wear Jeans to Work
Outfit #1
Outfit #2
Outfit #3
A sweater over a button down shirt worn with jeans can look chic and professional. Yet, we all know what a pain in the butt getting a sweater over a button down can be. That's why I like this J. Crew style with the collar built in. To elevate the look, I added these seriously fun metallic Cole Haan loafers and finished the look with a black bag from Nordstrom and silver drop earrings.
Outfit #4
Outfit #5
Wearing jeans to work is a privilege that should never be disrespected or taken for granted. Be sure to create professional dress-down looks with your jeans that are appropriate and professional despite their casual nature.
