We all push boundaries at work. Sometimes it's in the form of creative, far-out thinking — the kind that gets you major cred with your boss. Other times, testing the waters turns a little more rebellious: traffic takes the blame for a latte-induced late arrival, an online flash sale gets priority over a deadline, or — if you're like us — a mesh top leaves little to the imagination. Style restrictions are ones we especially enjoy toying with, even when the items we really want to wear have no place in an office setting. Or do they?
You see, with strategic layering and accessorizing, risqué trends can be deemed professional. Inspired by some other skilled workplace envelope-pushers — namely the not-necessarily-rule-abiding cast of Bravo's Below Deck Mediterranean — we created five ways to wear some of the season's coolest skin-baring trends that won't get you invited into HR. In fact, you'll stay firmly planted on your professional A-game. Strapless tops, miniskirts, and all. Click on for the proof.
The Slinky Slip
You have a casual office where you can wear sneakers and no one bats an eye — great. But can you wear what you wore on last night's date? Probably not. To make a slinky slip dress more business-savvy, layer in a thin turtleneck. Add sophisticated accessories, and finish off with those comfortable (and spotless) kicks.
Shore Projects, $205.00, available at Bloomingdale'sTibi, $625.00, available at TibiMajestic, $135.00, available at HalsbrookASOS, $55.00, available at ASOSadidas, $54.99, available at Famous Footwear
The Sheer Top
This ain't a throw-on-and-go top, but with a few extra steps, you can pull off an early-morning-meeting look with an edge. Slip a pinafore dress over the lacy piece; slip on a low, coquettish heel; and stick to oh-so-subtle accessories.
Topshop, $9.00, available at TopshopOffice, $63.66, available at OfficeNasty Gal, $48.00, available at Nasty GalMarni, $2190.00, available at Net-A-PorterAlexander McQueen, $580.00, available at MatchesFashion.com
The Strapless Dress
Keep the bare shoulders for after hours. For now, dress down an evening frock with a striped T-shirt and jeans layered underneath. The result is neither casual Friday nor corporate America, but rather perfect for a creative workplace.
Opening Ceremony, $375.00, available at Lane CrawfordAlly Fashion, $12.99, available at Ally FashionTibi, $425.00, available at TibiYoins, $23.95, available at YoinsZara, $29.90, available at Zara
The Miniskirt
A shortened hem could be risky from 9 to 5. The trick to playing down the skin: sticking with a flat loafer-like shoe, an effortless tee, and a super-sleek vest that pulls the entire ensemble together (and adds a little more upper-thigh coverage).
Mango, $99.99, available at MangoMSGM, $465.00, available at Net-A-PorterVia Spiga, $127.10, available at Amazon FashionTheory, $75.00, available at TheoryMCM, $446.25, available at Bloomingdale's
The Bra Top
Underwear as overwear won't trigger any alarms when the base of your outfit is a bit flowy and classic. The low-cut crop top gives a tired oxford-and-trousers combo an instant refresh, while the block heel and the structured handbag let everyone know that you showed up to work.
French Connection, $69.99, available at French ConnectionCharles & Keith, $69.00, available at Charles & KeithFront Row Shop, $34.00, available at Front Row ShopJoseph, $505.00, available at JosephZara, $89.90, available at Zara
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