As I crossed paths with this week’s Fashionista, I knew she was on a mission. With a patriotic basket in hand and a Lilly look-alike “Vote 2012” sticker on her blazer lapel, I was lucky to steal a couple of minutes out of her hectic schedule. I had just enough time to capture her “workweek chic” style with and, oh so southern flare and even learn about her political efforts taking place right on USC’s campus.
Lindsay is actively involved in the political scene—interning at Governor Nikki Haley’s press office, promoting her own agenda, Heels on the Hill (encouraging college ladies to get involved in politics), all while balancing school work with law school applications. It makes me tired just thinking about it! However, this Fashionista and activist manages to do it all while staying professionally stylish.
Her coral bow tied skirt caught my eye; it is the epitome of southern style. Her preppy flare shows by pairing this high waisted skirt with a fitted schoolboy blazer and rustic boots. The outfit comes together to form the perfect casual workday ensemble that can easily transition into class attire and accommodate an on the go lifestyle full of errands.
Name: Lindsay Church
Major: Journalism and Political Science
Year: Senior
CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style? Would it change if you were to move to a new city?
Lindsay Church: My personal style is simple and preppy. I like business casual outfits that can transition from interning at the State House to class for those days that I am on the go. My style is southern, so I would certainly have to tailor it to a new city!
CF: Where do you see yourself after graduation? What is your dream job?
LC: I will be attending law school next fall. My dream job would be practicing law for a firm in Washington, D.C., that specializes in media law or publishing. I can't see myself leaving the political scene- I would also enjoy working on the legal or communications sides of campaigns.
CF: Tell me about your political project “HeelsontheHill”?
LC: Heels on the Hill is a campaign at USC to encourage college women to be more involved in politics. I've paired up with Student Government for voter registration initiatives and started a blog for women to share their experiences and opinions. South Carolina ranks last for women in elected office, so it is also a goal of mine to inform students about women running for office. This project is my honors thesis and has been a great mix of writing, research, graphic design and politics.
CF: What advice would you give to college girls entering the workforce or trying to get involved in politics?
LC: My advice to college women is not to lose your personal style, even in a predominantly male field like politics. Balancing work and fun is a must!
CF: Dressing plays a very important role in achieving success in the workplace. How do you personally dress for success?
LC: Dressing for success is important now more than ever. Finding that dream job after college is competitive and looking professional can definitely give you an edge. I love a colored blazer over a dress paired with nude pumps. A watch and classic jewelry are essential. Great retailers like J.Crews offer a 15% student discount—which I certainly make use of!
How To: This post goes out to all you ladies balancing school and work; I know it’s tough! A transitional wordrobe is exactly what you need to make life a bit easier. Lindsay’s outfit can flow from the office to the classrooms and back with just a few easy modifications.
Her skirt, with the eye-catching bow and ruffled waistline, is the statement piece of the outfit (similar one here). Pair with a casual shirt or blouse and voila! When going to work, throw on a blazer and pop on a pointed-toe flat or nude pump. To run around town or head into class, exchange these heels for a comfortable and durable fall boot.
Don’t be afraid to incorporate color into your work wardrobe. Lindsay’s pop of coral, from her J.Crew skirt shows just how well it can work—especially when paired with basic colors (white, brown and navy). J.Crew definitely knows how to do work week color so look there if you’re in need. Fashion can be fun in the office and can even be repurposed and worn throughout the day, no matter what your schedule entails. So embrace professional style and take the work world by storm!
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