Even though I work from home these days, I spent many years working in more traditional office settings- a start up, a holistic nutrition company, a movie studio and a major magazine. I’ve lived through many different office dress codes, so I know how difficult it can be to find cute clothes to wear to work in all of the aforementioned situations.

I’m constantly getting asked by readers for posts about what to wear to work, so I teamed up with ModCloth to share some of my tips with you today.

1. Start from the bottom. Blouses are easy to find, but I always had a hard time finding skirts and pants for the workday. It’s easy to play it safe with plain black or navy work pants, but I like the idea of having fun on the bottom as well. These yellow slacks give a pop of color while remaining conservative enough for most offices.

2. Have fun with your top. Just because you’re at work doesn’t mean you can’t add a little flair. I love the ruffled sleeves and polka dot pattern on this wrap-style shirt, which also pairs well with black skinny jeans and simple pumps if the yellow isn’t your thing. Too low cut for your situation? Try a cute peplum with a higher neckline or get more office top inspiration here.

3. Comfortable shoes are a must. Teetering into a meeting is never a good look. Low heels, flats, sandals, and flat boots were my go-tos for workday wear. Comfortable shoes can give you more confidence (although others would argue the same for stilettos!) and save you from a wipe out in front of the boss.

4. Always keep layers around. Every office I’ve ever worked in has been freezing in the summer and sweltering in the winter. How NYC buildings couldn’t get it right, I’ll never know. My trick was to always keep a blazer or cardigan on my chair to throw on when it got chilly out. I love this floral one, but if your office is more conservative, play it a little more safe with plain black but in a cuter cut.

Let me know if this was helpful and I can style up more work-appropriate outfits for you this fall!

Top & Pants c/o ModCloth

Sponsored by ModCloth and ShopStyle.