Nailing the Perfect Office to Party Ensemble with Kate Spade
With winter here, we're on the hunt for the best holiday outfits that not only work for the office, but also double up as a perfect holiday party ensemble. Y'know - anything that makes our hectic schedules even more convenient. Because who has time to leave work early, change, get ready AGAIN, and make it to the party on time?
With the bulk of holiday parties still ahead of you, we tapped some of our favorite fashion bloggers and business ladies to share boss babe party style looks from Kate Spade.
THE ALL-IN-ONE with C&C FOUNDER JACLYN JOHNSON
For the busy boss who doesn't have time to pull in multiple pieces, what's chicer than a jumpsuit? Maybe these heels? In black and gold, you can strut from office to party with bells (or in this case, pom poms) on your feet.
On Jackie: Metallic Dot Jumpsuit, India Heels, Cameron Street Lane Bag
THAT'S A WRAP with PURSUIT OF SHOES FOUNDER ASHLEY TORRES
It's not just presents that are for wrapping this season. In a sparkling wrap dress, that can be paired with flats at the office and heels for the party, you've got this in the (cutest little black) bag.
On Ashley: Metallic Multidot Dress, Cameron Street Lane Bag
BLACK & WHITE & OH SO EFFORTLESS with EFFORTLESS CHIC FOUNDER JEN PINKSTON
Black and white was made for busy bosses. When you don't have time to pattern match, you can get dressed for the day and night faster than you close those deals. Oh, and if it's a rooftop party, you'll be stylish and cozy in a gorgeous tweed coat.
On Jen: Faux Fur Collar Tweet Coat, Poplin Ruffle Shirt, Abbie Pant, Anastasia Heels, Cameron Street Lane Bag
BOSS PANTS NATION with JORDAN SANTOS
Power babes in power outfits, with a few key accessories. In a high-waist pant and crisp white button-down, heading from your desk to festive drinks has never looked so good.
On Jordan: Silk Alyssa Top, Shimmer Tweed Jacket, Cameron Street Lane Bag
THE LADY IN LILAC with NIKIA PHOENIX
There may be songs about ladies in red, but this winter opt for soft colors like lilac because pretty pastel hues aren't just for spring. Go romantic and sophisticated.
On Nikia: Jia Dress, Malerie Coat, Cameron Street Lane Bag
THE CASUAL CREATIVE with LILLIAN BABIAN, FOUNDER OF STUDS AND SAPPHIRES
Casual meets classic with a high waist denim and white button-down. Sometimes when everything is up in the air, you want something simple and sweet. And a monogrammed bag is the perfect addition to this classic look.
On Lillian: Malerie Coat, Poplin Ruffle Shirt, High Waisted Denim
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
C&C Classifieds Nº20: Be Social, Fringe Studio, Trendera, & more!
The hustle don't stop, even if you're in holiday mode.
HOLIDAY BREAK IS SO CLOSE. SOOOOO CLOSE.
If you're counting down the days till you can kick your feet up and relax, hang in there. Just because you're already in holiday mode, it doesn't mean the hustle has to stop, especially if you're looking to kick off 2017 with a new gig.
Sign up below to get full access to our C&C Classifieds this week featuring Be Social, Trendera, Fringe Studio, Squarespace, and more!
If you have signed up for access to the C&C Classifieds before, click here.
9 Must-Haves For Your Office Holiday Party
All the things your party needs to jingle all the way.
Were you given the duty of organizing the holiday office party? Or did you volunteer in hopes to exercise your party planning skills? Sure, you’ve got emails, deadlines, meetings, and calls, and yet still, you wanted to be the one make sure everyone winds up rocking around the office party clock.
But if you put your Santa cart before your reindeer and are stressing that party planner extraordinaire isn’t really in your wheelhouse, we’ve got you covered. After hosting our own parties, happy hours (not to mention 600-person conferences NBD) we think we’ve nailed down the formula for a fun party that will leave your boss and colleagues impressed.
Check out all of our holiday party must-haves. All we ask for in return is an invite.
COCKTAILS
Sideshow Press Cocktail Mixing Set - $38, Poketo Jiggler - $15
No party is complete without cocktails. Isn’t that why we come to these things anyways?
You could go the easy route and just stock up on beer and wine, but why not step it up a notch and get some curated cocktails for the guests? You could hire a bartender to serve cocktails all night, or you could get crafty and try your own bartender skills and create a punch bowl with some spirits and spices to punch it up. You can try this recipe here to get you started, or create on of your own!
TUNES
Don’t have room for a DJ in the party budget? Don’t stress.
There are tons of playlists on Spotify and Apple Music that are sure to liven up the party with some Christmas cheer. If you prefer to ditch hearing Baby It’s Cold Outside for the millionth time this month, create your own playlist and hook up to a Bluetooth speaker like Sonos. Once you have the same playlist playing on all the speakers around the office, you’ll make sure everyone is in sync on all the good vibes.
GARLANDS GALORE
6' Winter Eucalyptus Garland, Dried - $85
No holiday party is ready without the proper decor. Invest in a beautiful garland instead of cheesy holiday decor that’s been used again and again. Make your party stand out, Create cozy nooks and try to make it feel like you’re not at the office.
PHOTOBOOTH & PROPS
Fujifilm X UO Custom Colored Mini 8 Instax Camera - $70
Keep in mind that there will definitely be guests coming in through the door asking where the photo booth is You don’t want to be the bearer of bad news to let them know that they’re out of luck. Invest in a camera (Polaroid cameras work just as great and are so fun), and set up some props for you guests to take pictures with. Shoutout to Studio DIY who nailed these giant ornament balloons from a few years back. You can bet you’ll find these at our holiday party.
WINE GLASS TAGS
Like any party, your guests will be grabbing glasses, losing them, and get a new one. Encourage them to refill their wine glass if they’ve already grabbed ones by personalizing their cups with ornament name tags. You’ll hear “is this your cup or mine” a lot less.
FIRECRACKER PICKS
Sideshow Press Firecracker Picks - $12
Add some pizzazz to all your cocktails with these firecracker picks that are sure to make the party even more fun. Use them for the charcuterie board, or pair them with the cocktails and you’re set!
NAPKINS
Sideshow Press Napkin Coasters - $12
You weren’t about to use some basic napkins, were you?
A good party is all in the details, so make sure that even the napkins you pick make a statement. These “but first cocktails” napkins are sure to do just that.
Guests can use them to wipe everything but that grin off their face. (Because they’re gonna have the best time… ya?)
CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Palisades Wood Cheese Board - $69, Porcelain Christmas Tree Cheese Markers Set - $9.95
If the party you’re hosting isn’t being catered, but you still want to provide your guests with some light snacks, adding a charcuterie board to your list will do the trick. Get some great cheeses, crackers, a few olives and dried fruit, and you’re good to go.
EDISON STRING LIGHTS
Edison-Style String Lights - $24.99 - $49.99
Just double checking - we said this party wasn't basic right? Cool, because if you were thinking of getting traditional holiday lights, don’t. Add some flare to your holiday party by using some Edison-style string lights to lighten up the atmosphere. The bonus? Show your boss you’re thinking ahead-- these lights work year-round.
What are your office holiday party favorites? Would you get any of the ones in our list? Let us know below!
MORE ON THE BLOG
The Business and Beauty of "Big"
Why rejecting the status quo is smart.
Image credit: The 12ish Style
I’m not small. I'm big. A word I have been running from my entire life. Growing up, all I wanted was to seem smaller, shorter, slighter…anything to blend in with the body types I saw on TV or in magazines.
Before social media, traditional media was the only game in town and there was simply zero interest in showing diverse sizes or encouraging women to be happy in their own skin. Of course, media is different now. And still, sadly, headlines like “Lose Weight” or "How to Get a Flat Stomach in 30 Days” still dominate the messaging; headlines every woman has seen so many times they barely register anymore, leaving behind a general sentiment of “you are not good enough as is."
"I’m not small. I'm big. A word I have been running from my entire life."
Tweet this.
My journey to realizing I am in fact "good enough as is" took place fairly recently. While I've never had overly negative thoughts about my physical appearance, I always felt I wasn't invited to the party. Designers stop at a size 8 or 10. Models are a 0. Any actress over a 6 is considered plus size in Hollywood. The subtext is clear. Acknowledging that I wear a size 14 is not something I would have done four years ago.
But when Man Repeller featured me in an article two years ago on how to dress for a body type that contrasts Leandra's, I saw positive feedback from women across the country and realized I wasn’t alone! I had always assumed a size 4 must be the average (10 years spent working in fashion in NYC will do that to a girl) and that I should try to cram myself into that ideal. But perusing the comments on the Man Repeller story, I could see there must be a whole country full of women like me who wanted to accept themselves but struggled to find a way in.
Boom. That’s when The12ishStyle was born. A place where you dont actually have to rearrange the outfit or hunt for sizes that will fit you because the work is done. Just shop! Accept yourself! Put your confidence on first!
With the average woman in this country wearing a size 16 (turns out it’s not a 4, lol), it’s insane to me that the fashion industry for so long has not only ignored such a huge part of the population, but in doing so, deemed it un-chic to be average. But when Ashley Graham landed the cover of the legendary Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue this past February, that all started to change. Suddenly a whole new conversation has opened up and we are looking at a multi-billion dollar and growing industry that companies are scrambling to join.
"Accept yourself! Put your confidence on first!"
Tweet this.
As for me, I’m thrilled to be on the forefront of this movement. Celebrating my size instead of conforming to existing ideals not only unlocked my own self acceptance but also led to the career I love so much. Of course pushing up against the status quo of any industry isn’t easy or all that comfortable. You might get laughed at or even worse, you might get no response at all. But if you can find an open space and connect with an audience that no one is talking to, it’s worth it.
So many things motivate me on a daily basis. Helping women learn to accept and love themselves is at the top of the list. But so is working to change the status quo. Last year, the plus size industry, valued at $17 billion, made up about 5% of the total apparel market in the US. A glance at the numbers suggests it’s merely a niche market, but with most women in this country wearing a plus size, clearly that’s not the full story. Everyday I see a massively underserved population of women who just want to shop but lack options. As brands continue to wake up, I know this will change over time.
In the meantime, I will be here outside of the mainstream fashion box, continuing to push the envelope. No more running from the word “big” — from here on out I embrace it.
Katie Sturino is a size 12(ish) New Yorker who believes great style can look chic at any size. She started the12ishstyle.com to introduce girls like her who wear sizes 12-18 to fashion forward brands across extended and plus sizes.
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
How 3 Harvard Women Regained Their Confidence Post Graduation
Climbing the ivy isn't the easiest on your ego.
photo credit: Lily Glass Photography
A week before starting college, I came across a quote that said, “Going to Harvard convinces everyone that you’re special, and you that you’re not.” When I read it, I wasn’t nervous because I had the hubris of a girl who didn’t apply to any safety schools and graduated at the top of her class. Less than two months later, I got my first midterm test grade, a D in Linguistics, and called home crying. I had been knocked down several pegs and my confidence took a significant hit. In the 10+ years since, my confidence has slowly returned, and I was curious to see how other women have dealt with losing confidence and gaining it back. I asked three of my closest friends from Harvard about the different ways they’re regaining their confidence since college and how it can apply to your careers.
HOW DID ATTENDING HARVARD ERODE YOUR CONFIDENCE?
Going to Harvard was a truly humbling experience. As one friend put it, “Harvard reinforced the ‘impostor syndrome’ that many women suffer from.” She asked herself questions such as, “Did I get in because I'm Hispanic? Did I really take full advantage of everything Harvard had to offer?” Beyond these feelings were the daily difficulties that came with trying to succeed in such a rigorous environment. One friend described the high expectations as, “Succeeding was the baseline. There were fewer opportunities to excel and do something praiseworthy.” My friend, Allyson, felt that no matter how hard she worked and how much she studied, she couldn’t catch up. She likened it to feeling as if some people were starting ten meters ahead of her in a race based on the higher levels of preparation they had received in high school.
HOW HAVE YOU REGAINED YOUR CONFIDENCE?
Many of these situations translate to the workplace, and are well documented in articles on women’s confidence. However, I am more interested in how we can continue to improve our self-assurance when faced with demanding environments.
Allyson is an eternal optimist and adventure seeker who has done business development at Disney Parks and Resorts and is now a consultant at the Boston Consulting Group. She is also the co-founder and CEO of easyBiodata, an online dating platform for the Indian community. She says she felt emboldened in college when she was successful in areas where other people weren’t. She says she “didn’t even know about Wall Street before college,” but she heard speakers such as Carla Harris and was inspired to try to enter the industry. She was hungry to get internships as early as her sophomore year. Her professional success with securing great internships much earlier than most people brought back some of the confidence that was rattled in her freshman year.
Another friend is an opera aficionado, fishing fanatic, and startup and technology ninja with 10 years of experience in ecommerce and pet tech. She has found ways to build her confidence in everyday life. She feels powerful when she “uses critical thinking in areas that are not her expertise.” This could be anything from managing her own finances to making medical decisions for her parents. She knows she can find the information she needs and pull together the right people and resources to get the best possible outcomes. She stresses that it is important to “take a step back to get perspective on how far you’ve climbed, and give yourself credit for victories. Maybe your professor [or boss] won’t give you a pat on the back, but you can sure give yourself one!”
"Take a step back to get perspective on how far you’ve climbed, and give yourself credit for victories."
Tweet this.
My third friend is a tri-lingual artist, soccer player, and new mother who has worked in the consulting, public health, and software industries. Her confidence is influenced by both her professional and everyday life. She says her confidence changes based on the people she is surrounded by, including when she has a boss who believes in her and her abilities. It also improves when she participates in activities that make her feel strong and excited.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMEN IN HIGH PRESSURE JOBS?
What I found most encouraging in my conversations with these three women is that they never suggested shying away from tough situations. Two of them went back to Harvard for their MBAs, even knowing how difficult it would be. The other friend left a successful career in retail ecommerce to join a startup with a whole new set of obstacles to overcome. Their advice for women in high pressure environments boiled down to three things:
1. Continue to step up and take on challenging roles. “Heading into unknown territory lets you test your wings. Don’t be afraid to step out into scary places because you never know what you can do. Don’t be discouraged from trying, even if you don’t succeed at first.”
2. “Form relationships with everyone you can at your company from the mailroom worker to the CEO. People respect the effort and it will make you more efficient and productive.” Having that full perspective of your business will empower you even when you feel like you may not have all the answers on your own.
3. “Seek out mentors and supervisors who believe in you and want to give you opportunities.” During those times when your self-assurance may wane, it helps to have someone you admire to remind you that you’re great, and create opportunities for you to stretch yourself and grow.
I am excited to put their advice into action, and look forward to showing off some of that pre-Harvard swagger at the earliest opportunity!
Florence Evina-Ze is a business strategist with experience at McKinsey, DevaCurl, and Deloitte. She is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Business School and likes writing about the intersection of beauty and business on her blog, beautyflo.co.
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
Dreaming Big & Manifesting Your Hustle Into Something More
Just a little Saturday motivaton from Kat Lane.
Kat Lane started working at a very young age and she hasn't stopped the hustle since. We caught up with the Miami-based radio host, creative director, and musician to ask about balance, hustle and working with clothing brand QPED Life.
She's got the right attitude when it comes to achieving your dreams.
You started working when you were 12. Can you give us a little bit about your background and what compelled you to start so early?
It all started on the dance floor. As far back as I can remember I was dancing, acting, and on stage, and because I grew up around people who worked hard at what they loved - I got used to working hard for what I wanted to do from early on. Age 12 was a big year for me in that I booked my first commercial, I wrote my first song, and recorded the song. I started pursing my love for dancing, singing, and acting on a level where I was actually making money (imagine that!). It was definitely a progressive build, but since I was 12, I remember equating the whole "if you do what you love, you'll never work a day of your life" perspective to the fact that I loved expressing myself through music and motivation.
From microphone to desk. How have you balanced the line of creative and business woman?
There are a couple factors here, the first is knowing the importance of working hard and having a willingness to expand your boundaries and grow on different levels. When I study people I consider "great" at what they do (or did), and see the amount of tenacity, persistence, patience, and ingenuity it took for them to achieve their goals, I clearly understand what I'm taking on, and that it requires both a creative and practical approach. My team at Sound Business Recordings and at QPED Life are branding experts, and have always urged me to stay focused on both aspects (creative and business), as one could not exist without the other.
The second factor is in having an awesome support system between my family and the awesome company I get to work with. There's nothing better than to have a team that finds importance and value in the same things you yourself do - and also a team that cares for each other and has each others' backs.
So what is your role with QPED Life?
I started with QPED Life when it was just a concept that Sean Sloan had created. The original thought was to create something positive and meaningful in entertainment, and digestible for anyone with an ambition to succeed and be the most they can be. The concept evolved into the song "QPED", which I sang and recorded, and which contains a lot of the sentiment of what has become the brand QPED Life - ambition, heart, focus, forward movement, honesty to oneself. Once I really understood the mantras and what the brand stood for, and started seeing the initial apparel designs, I was completely on-board.
I currently consult with QPED Life on the creative side, advising on garments/cuts/fabrics as well as current and future fashion trends. I'll be overseeing our upcoming music program, which you'll hear more about in Q2 of next year, and I'm also a Brand Ambassador for the line. Basically I get to offer my ideas and expertise/vision of what is possible with the brand - from a variety of angles.
And why was it important for you to take on another role?
The entertainment industry is kind of like a creative garden - you can keep planting different herbs/plants/varietals, and they all feed off of the same energy and stem from the same roots. What I've done and continue to do in music - makes the garden more interesting from the outside as well as internally. For example, when I'm searching for new records to play in my radio mix, I get music from all over the world. A great artist is like a journalist reporting on the energy of a particular location or a movement, so many times I get reports that help me spot trends way ahead of the curve. I use this during our QPED Life discussions on new designs, marketing campaigns, social media, and more. Best of all, I get to bring ME to whatever I get involved with, and being in multiple roles allows me to have different ways to reach & connect with people.
What is it about the company that’s unique?
QPED Life is a communal brand that's all about bringing people UP, and this translates from the designs down to the people involved with the company. The owners of QPED Life have a strong belief in the physical aspect of human interaction, which is a fresh take in an era where we're all staring at our phones for a good portion of the day! I think the overall positive messaging and encouragement of dreaming big and putting thoughts into action - is something I believe is not only healthy, but absolutely necessary.
"Dreaming big and putting thoughts into action - is something I believe is not only healthy, but absolutely necessary."
Tweet this.
There is also a level playing field at QPED Life, so doesn't matter if you're a guy or a girl, young/old, etc - your ideas and your work ethic are what are most valued and critiqued. I get a lot of hands-on training and no matter what happens, I know the brand will have my back, and that's not something that everyone can always bet on.
What’s a phrase or image that you really want to put on a shirt?
Love over Hate. We actually made a shirt with Love over Hate a few years ago - prior to launching QPED Life. With the recent political atmosphere, this is a phrase that could really help unite people over what really matters to all of us. Another phrase I'm drawn to is "Shoot for the Moon", and we actually just made a design with this phrase for Kat Lane fans! I really love this piece, you can check it out here: www.katlanemusic.com/merch
How do you see the company growing?
I've seen the company grow from a set of principles, to a song, then designs, and eventually to a real clothing line. You're going to see a lot of growth from QPED Life over the next 2 years, from expansion of the line/designs to accessories, live events, and one huge surprise that will be revealed around June/July 2017 :)
But on a basic level, the messages of motivation and positivity will continue to be conveyed in many different platforms - anywhere the message could make a difference in someone's life. The goal is to grow organically to where people understand and support the spirit of the brand and then the actual physical products - because this is the underlying purpose of why we do what we do at QPED Life.
Do you think it’s important for women to have more than one hustle?
Whether it's for women or for men, hustling just to have a hustle doesn't work, I really feel like you have to work for something that's important to you - and only then will hustle manifest into something more. Our belief has always been quality over quantity - so when you put your heart into something, it will grow into things we never could have imagined. Entertainment in general is important for me - I've always been creative, so having different "hustles" means having different avenues to utilize and share my creativity.
"You have to work for something that's important to you - and only then will hustle manifest into something more."
Tweet this.
"Shoot from the heart,” what does that mean to you?
"Shoot from the Heart" is a message of going for something with honesty for who you are, and giving it all you've got. It's all about being true to yourself.
If we were to find you anywhere at 7am, where would it be?
Radio! I host on weekend mornings on Miami's #1 pop station - the New Hits 97.3
If we were to find you somewhere at midnight, where would that be?
Radio! I have a mixshow on Friday nights too :D I spend a lot of time outside of the office with QPED Life - experiencing life, and since the customer is now the real boss with retail as well as with music and so much more - I like to get out and meet people as much as I can!
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
Links We Love: The Business of Wedding Hashtags & Tinder's New Dating Podcast
Plus one model taking on diversity in fashion.
Raffael Dickreuter via secretofdd.com
The RHOBH are back! If you don't know what that stands for, good on you. Keep fighting the good fight against reality. And take a look into this week's news cycle.
Black Mirror isn't just a show anymore. See how one model (Deddeh Howard, above) turned it into a photo project to talk about diversity.
Guess which ladies are leading the Grammy noms! Queen A and Queen B.
"My bill will ensure that students who try to transfer schools to avoid the consequences of their violent acts will, at a minimum, face the same consequences as students who transfer because they've cheated on an exam." Yep.
If you want to be ITK on tech, here are 11 stats from last week that will make you sound smarter than a 5th grader. (Maybe. They are teaching them how to code now.)
Tinder launched a podcast about dating in the digital age: DTR. And if you don't know what that stands for: hi mom!
Glassdoor released their 2017 BEST places to work! If you're on the hunt for a new J-O-B, check it out.
People do read! If you're looking for someone on you holiday list, here are 15 of the most giftable books.
Fathers, be good to your daughters. Like these dads.
If you're worried all of the clever wedding hashtags will be used up by the time someone pops the Q. Don't fret. Listen to the DTR podcast and then hire someone to do it for you.
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
C&C Classifieds Nº19: Elemis, Janet Gwen Designs, Kate Spade, and more!
Fresh new batch of classifieds for the week of 12/7.
December is finally here, and we're one step closer to 2017. We have the holiday music on repeat, and we can already hear the New Year's Eve noisemakers and kazoos in the distance.
However, if you're looking if you're looking to lock in a new gig before you hear the 2017 countdown, we've got a new batch of classifieds for you this week.
From Elemis, to Janet Gwen Designs, to Vans, check out all of the new listings on our classifieds this week.
If you have signed up for access to the C&C Classifieds before, click here.
Work Hard, Play Hard: Three Show-Stopping Holiday Office Party Outfits
If you're looking to break the rules this holiday season, these outfits are for you.
Photo: Sidney Ellen Photography
With the holidays around the corner, the amount of holiday party invites flooding your inbox are about the same amount as your work emails. And when you’re trying to catch up with all the important emails and deadlines before the holiday break, is there even any time to go shopping or even think about what you’re going to wear at those holiday parties you RSVP’d for?
We get it. We’ve been there far too often, and every year, we get a little better at being masters of becoming our own stylists even with all the stress of holiday shopping and parties. And how selfish would it make us if we didn’t share some of our best styling tips to save you some time this holiday season? Think of it as one of our few holiday gifts to you.
Thanks to our friends and holiday-season go-to bebe, we’ve rounded up three dazzling outfits for you to try out this season - a fit for every type of party you’re headed to. Whether you want to keep it cool and casual at the new years party, or are ready to make a statement on the scene for the office holiday party, we’ve got you covered.
Mistletoe Mischief
Coated Heartbreaker Jeans - $119, Je T’aime Bomber - $198, Crystal & Velvet Tie Choker - $34
Are you headed to a chill holiday party with your friends after work? Perhaps a house party ready with warm spiked apple cider, and a DJ mixing the best holiday covers on the 1’s and 2’s? This casual denim ensemble with this sequined bomber jacket is perfect for those who don’t want to be overdressed, but are always dressed to impress.
When The Ball Drops
Faux Fur Jacket - $189, Embroidered Skinny Jeans - $159, Crystal Embellished Choker - $39
It’s NYE, and the party you’re headed to is not formal, but you can’t help it to show up with a show-stopping outfit that is sure to turn some heads. Nothing like pairing an embroidered pair of cropped denim with a white fuzzy number to show you’re ready to party, no matter how cold it gets. Also, don’t forget the red choker to accessorize - you want to nail all the details.
Holiday Office Festivities
Silk Charmeuse Surplice Top - $139, Gold Leather Moto Jacket - $298, High Waisted Trouser - $129
You RSVP’d for the formal holiday office party, but does this mean you have to wear a gown or a dress? If you’re in the mood to ditch a dress this year and red isn’t really your color, opt for a black and gold ensemble with hints of silk and leather. Add in a stacked chain necklace, and your outfit’s ready for the night!
What are some of your holiday go-to’s this season? Let us know below, and let us know your thoughts on our outfits!
Kat Von D on Making it in a Male-Dominated Industry
Brains, beauty, badass.
Most of us got acquainted with tattoo artist, Kat Von D from her appearances on both Miami Ink and LA Ink. Shortly after her reality debut, the starlet got approached by the big beauty bosses at Sephora, in 2008, to start her own makeup line. The self-proclaimed beauty junkie instantly found herself in another successful business venture with Kat Von D Beauty. Not only did she recently relaunch her entire collection to be a vegan and cruelty-free brand, but Kat has also created cult favorites that have consistently found a place on Sephora’s Bestsellers list. In a recent conversation with James Vincent at The Makeup Show Chicago, Kat candidly talked on how involved she is in building her beauty brand and how she uses creativity to stay inspired in the ever growing industry.
How did it start for you and what inspired the beauty line?
I think I got lucky in a lot of ways. When I was first on Miami Ink that’s when the people at Sephora were interested in seeing what my perspective was on makeup. I think they were surprised of how much of a beauty junkie I was at the time. I was already a Beauty Insider. I was a card carrying member and everything. They saw the opportunity for something different and unique. We started off with four lipsticks. The idea was to create the four perfect shades of red. Even back then I’m like ‘Oh this is so much. I can’t believe it. I’m the luckiest girl in the world’. I thought I was going to make one lipstick, fast forward to now, and we got 3 million lipsticks. Obviously it’s not that easy there is so much work in it. I think there are different ways to go about creating your own makeup line. For me, I don’t have absolutely any interest in pouring myself into anything if I’m not going to do it 110%. So there are a lot of people who just want to put their name on something, they don’t show up, just collect a paycheck, and hope it does well. As for me, [I’m] somewhat micromanaging but creatively involved in the entire process.
I get asked a lot by people ‘How do I start my own makeup line?’ I think that I am the worst at giving advice but I do think that we’re in a day and age where it’s important to go back to handmade. That’s why I love Etsy. Anybody who has a small business that means you can do it out of your garage or your living room. And I think that’s something to be celebrated. I connect with something that’s made with love versus mass produced or computer generated. Not to knock computers. Because computers are cool too, but there is this certain magic that happens when it has the human fingerprint on it.
"I connect with something that’s made with love versus mass produced."
Tweet this.
I just always tell people: figure it out. If you really want, you can do it. There are a ton of great independent brands out there that don’t get enough love, that are vegan and cruelty free, that are producing things that are really pushing the envelope as far as artistry goes. When you get into the corporate world it’s a lot easier to play it safe, but what’s the fucking fun in that? So I celebrate all the indie brands as much as possible.
Tell us about your artistry and what you think defines an artist.
I don’t feel worthy enough to answer that. I do like to make things with my hands and with my mind, and heart so I guess that can be called an artist or a creator. I think art is one of humanity’s most redeeming qualities in this world where we are so selfish. We shit on everything and never really give anything back, and I’m talking about Mother Nature. It’s constantly taking and not producing. When you’re an artist its one of the most selfless acts you can do. You are giving whether you inspire somebody or make something beautiful. That’s so crucial and so important. And if we do want to be remembered by something let’s hope that it is art in a world like today where you have an orange person telling us bull shit things.
How do you come up with some of your product ideas?
We do treat every product like a snowflake in a sense that the creative process may come in a different way. Sometimes it’s the idea [first]. For example when I had the Butterfly Effect collection I figured out the art direction first. Then there are other times where it’s like the Alchemist Palette where I had this specific vision for the formula first and then you know the component and everything else came later. As far as shade names, that’s the fun part, that’s like the dessert. I get to name shades after my best friends [or] my exes. It’s almost like a little tiny love letter. Also I’m inspired by music so you guys will find that the majority of the shade names are like songs or lyrics or band names, just overall muses.
As a female in a male-dominated industry what is the piece of advice to finding your own success?
We live in a male-dominated world with an exception of very few fields out there, actually makeup artistry being one of them. Makeup artistry is made up with the majority of female. As a tattooer I remember before the TV shows I didn’t have any girlfriends that were tattoo artist. I feel that the best representation of feminism is not making your gender an issue because that’s the problem in the beginning. I don’t want people getting tattooed by me because I am a girl. That would be the opposite of feminism. I want them to get tattooed by me because of my work. You want that to speak for itself. I don’t care if you are a girl or boy or chimpanzee. If you’re good, you’re on my team.
"I don’t care if you are a girl or boy or chimpanzee. If you’re good, you’re on my team."
Tweet this.
What are some tips for artists for keeping themselves inspired?
I don’t know what it’s like to be bored. If I have any downtime I’m looking at trees. I’m going to sound like a hippie right now, but trying to understand and label what it is when light shines through a leaf. I think these things are really inspiring. Also people, if we practiced looking at each and find this special beautiful thing about them, oh my God, you are going to fall in love everyday like I do. I think inspiration is all around us. You can ask my team I drag them to so many museums. I’m like a total art nerd about it. I think that is something worship worthy.
There are times where I am completely depressed. I don’t need makeup to be happy but then I get a new palette and I look at it and its like ‘Oooh I like this color combination!’ It’s just that little tiny thing [that] gets us excited about tomorrow.
Is there one thing you love the most about your beauty line?
It’s not a product. I love all the products. I use everything that I make. I think it’s mainly the interaction. This makeup line has introduced me to such an amazing new world that I really wasn’t apart of before, especially after being made fun of as a kid at school for using black eyeliner as lipstick and shaving my head into a Mohawk. It’s nice to celebrate unconventional beauty together. I would say 40%, because 60% of the screenshots in my phone are my cat, but 40% of my screenshots are of you guys. I try my best to repost it or reproduce it and give credit. I think my favorite part of being involved in the makeup world is you guys.
Adrienne Gadling reported this from The Makeup Show Chicago. She is the editor-in-chief of IAMSADIDDY.com
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
Want to Know How Long Your Resume Should Be?
If it's not skimmable, it's worthless.
photo credit: Kristen Meyer Salvage Design
How long should your resume be? The truth is, it depends. The way I always explain it to clients is if you really need the extra page and have useful career information (i.e. important metrics or well respected companies/jobs) to include, use it. However if you can easily condense all important information to one page that is reasonably spaced and reader friendly, go for that.
RULE OF THUMB
My general rule of thumb is that if you have 1/3 of a page or under on the second page, try to make it fit by searching for “fluff” words, extra spacing, etc. If you have more than 1/3 of a page and everything is important content about your career, it’s actually better to have it spread out between 2 pages to make the document more reader friendly. Note that the key phrase here is “reader friendly.” If you can fit everything onto one page, but your resume is dense and hard to read, that won’t benefit you.
If your resume is not skimmable, (Studies show that hiring managers and recruiters look at individual resumes for an average of 6 seconds each) it is basically worthless. That statement may seem harsh, but the reality of the job market suggests this is true.
"If your resume is not skimmable, it is basically worthless." #hardtruth
Tweet this.
Someone who presents an information-dense resume squeezed onto one page with half inch margins is almost sure to get very little attention solely based on the fact that no one wants to sift through it.
THE GOAL OF A RESUME
Many people think that the goal of a resume is to get you a job, but the real goal of a resume is to get you an interview. A resume alone can’t land you a job, but it can intrigue others to want to learn more about you. Think of your resume like a movie trailer. It highlights all of the best parts and persuades people to want to learn more (in an interview).
WHAT YOU NEED TO ASK YOURSELF
When answering the question of “how long should your resume be?” answer these questions:
Are there any jobs on your resume that are no longer worth including? (i.e. positions over 10 years ago, internships 3-5+ years ago, etc.)
Do you have useless verbiage/information on your resume such as references?
If your resume is 2 pages, are those 2 pages used wisely? Is there unnecessary spacing? Are you including plenty of facts and metrics about your achievements?
THE BOTTOM LINE
Make your resume clear, concise, and easy to read to ensure you get noticed. Making it easy for hiring managers or recruiters to immediately view your strengths and skill set is one of the main things that will get you an interview.
It’s hard to give standards regarding who should have a resume over a page and who shouldn’t, but generally, about 5 years in the workforce or less will stay within 1 page, and time over that may potentially overflow. With that said, it is important to remember that this is a generalization without taking industry into account. An engineer who has extensive training and certifications, but is only 4 years out of college may have a 2-page resume, where someone who’s been working for 20 years with only 2 jobs at the same company may be able to fit it into one.
How long should your resume be? There is no one-size-fits-all for a resume, so as long as you stick to a reader friendly, to-the-point style of writing, you’ll be fine.
A native San Franciscan, Michele Lando is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and founder of writestylesonline.com. She has a passion for helping others present the best version of themselves, both on paper and in person, and works to polish individuals' application package and personal style. Aiming to help create a perfect personal branding package, Write Styles presents tips to enhance your resume, style, and boost your confidence.
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
Jingle All The Way with Birchbox's 12 Days of Prizes & Surprises
Giveaways every day? SIGN US UP.
The holidays are here, and if you’re like us, we like to jingle all the way with the holiday spirit. Which is why we’re stoked to reveal day 6 of Birchbox' s 12 Days of Prizes and Surprises to gift you $500 worth of Laura Geller goodies!
If you're looking to treat yourself this holiday season, or are looking for the perfect gift for that special someone on your shopping list, make sure you enter today's giveaway! The fun doesn't end there, you can enter a new giveaway for a fun prize every day til 12/12, so make sure to check daily!
Click here to enter now, and good luck!
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
Gal on the Go: Ultimate Boss Guide to Charlotte, North Carolina
Queens in the Queen City.
CREATE & INNOVATE in collaboration with Marriott Hotels
photo credit: Taylor Heery Photography
What more do you need from a trip than amazing coffee and a perfect spot to lay your head? Something to fuel you as you traverse a new city? And a pillow to catch you at the end of a well spent day?
That's just what Coco & the Director (above) provides-- the coffee part, at least. It's a locally sourced coffee shop right inside the lobby of the Charlotte Marriott City Center, which recently celebrated its grand opening. And we got our fill of expertly roasted beans, the most tech-savvy lobby we've ever seen, and boss women in the Queen City when we headed to Charlotte last month.
Like our past City Guide's, we met and profiled women who are at different points in their careers, each with a different focus and personal definition of success and balance. Women who have made the decision to strike out on their own-- and haven't looked back yet. Queens in the Queen City, if you will.
LAUREN HOOKER, FOUNDER ELLE & COMPANY
photo credit: Julia Fay Photography
Lauren Hooker started her design business Elle & Company in 2014, after reneging on a childhood pact she made with herself to "never, ever own a business."
"My dad owned a gym in our small hometown when I was growing up, and after seeing all the stress and time he poured into that venture." She says she swore up and down that she wouldn't follow suit. Instead, she pursued her life-long passion for design, nabbing a BFA in Visual Communication Design from Virginia Tech. From there she landed a design position at a startup. But her boss, a 45-minute commute, and lack of creative freedom left her feeling lackluster about her position. "So," she says, "I did what any creative who hates their day job would do; I started freelancing."
It was during this time she felt the freedom that comes with owning your own business.
Since then, Elle & Company has grown from a design studio to a business resource for creative entrepreneurs. "I love what I do," says Lauren. She's also the current household #breadwinner while her husband Jake, is back in school.
Lauren says, "I'm happy to be the 'breadwinner' of our family during this season. I know Jake would do the same for me if I ever chose to go back to school.
More crazy than being the sole provider these past 3 years is that my business has not only been supporting us, but it's allowed us to pay for his schooling and save for our future. It's been a huge blessing."
Even though she's found herself in this role, Lauren says she never imagined she'd be an entrepreneur. "I'm a workhorse, but I've never considered myself a visionary.
Over these last three years I've come to learn that there's two kinds of entrepreneurs: those who were born entrepreneurs and are always looking for the next business idea, and those who were born creative and want to start a business to carry out their ideas on their own terms. Jake is a natural-born entrepreneur; I'm a natural-born creative. We make a good team."
"I'm a workhorse, but I've never considered myself a visionary."
Tweet this.
This past year she's been able to bring on two part-time assistants, increase her prices, and focus on some passive income streams. And Charlotte is the perfect place for Lauren as she continues to grow. "I'm a southern, East coast girl, through and through. Charlotte is a good mix of southern charm and city life. It's clean, it's growing, and it's close to both the mountains and the water. We love it here."
She's sharing her favorite spots in the city below.
Best spot in Charlotte to hear live music: Neighborhood Theatre
Grab a morning cup of coffee: Not Just Coffee
Grab an afternoon cup of coffee: Amelie's Bakery (see above images)
Tourist spot in Charlotte that’s a guilty pleasure: Romare Bearden Park
Tourist spot that you’ve never visited: U.S. National Whitewater Center
Your favorite spot in Charlotte to sit and be still: Freedom Park
Favorite date night spot: Napa on Providence
MARSHA BARNES, FOUNDER THE FINANCE BAR
photo credit: Julia Fay Photography
Marsha Barnes started her career in the banking world, a place that provided her great opportunities, but the finance guru says that her true calling is much different than a banking setting. "There is a huge gap and percentage of people who are under-served on their financial journey," Marsha says.
"The world of personal finance is very similar to gaining levels of education, you begin with the basics and navigate your way up depending on your situation. I wanted to close that gap."
So she created The Finance Bar, a mobile finance station designed to service everyone stressed about their financial standing. The idea came about specifically to "not exclude anyone," says Marsha. "It allows me to travel to organizations, corporations and educational institutions and connect with people in a non-traditional financy type of way."
She also recently launched her Coaching Suite, what she calls a much more intimate experience than the mobile unit. At the suit she's offering 1:1 support for singles, couples and entire families that need guidance.
Marsha wasn't always so money savvy. "As a young lady I wanted all the things that I knew my money could buy. When I received my first promotion in the corporate world the first thing I wanted was a BMW and I didn't earn BMW type of money back then. I wanted my title at work to match my lifestyle. Totally the wrong thinking process. Terrible actually."
"I wanted my title at work to match my lifestyle. Totally the wrong thinking process."
Tweet this.
But she is keen on sharing her know-how and how-to, especially during the spendiest season of all. "During your down time stop and think about the life that you truly desire for yourself. Is it to vacation more, create your own business, spend more time with family?" she asks. "Believe it or not, money affects a lot of what we do in life. Be mindful of your dreams-the holidays will come and go but will your dreams?"
Here's a list of Marsha's favorite and financially smart places in Charlotte. (Why spend $$ when you can hit up a spot for free?)
Favorite spot to have a cup of morning coffee: Not coffee, but definitely hot-chocolate at the bookstore with my husband.
Best location to watch the sunset: On my porch.
Grab a post work drink with a friend: Jade Asian Fusion
The one place in the city where you’ll splurge: Books-A-Million
Where you can get the most bang for your buck: The library. It's full of free learning.
Favorite spot to sit and be still: The library and my porch.
Awesome neighborhoods you got to explore while taking the mobile hub on the road: Any neighborhood in my community. You never know what people are experiencing unless you are willing to meet them "where" they are.
HOLLY HOLLINGSWORTH PHILLIPS, CO-OWNER THE ENGLISH ROOM
photo credit: Julia Fay Photography
"I often want to scoop it all up. I am a true shopaholic and I am thrilled to have the job that pays me for it," explains Holly Hollingsworth Phillips, co-owner of The English Room, an interior design business originally run by Holly and her mother, Nancy Hollingsworth.
"My mother does not accept the word 'NO,'" says Holly. "She is persistent to a fault sometimes. That has served me well to get things done and maneuver difficult situations."
It's something Holly's been actively doing for over 20 years. Immersed in the world of design at a young age, Holly went on her first buying trip to Europe at 12.
She also learned to be "kind to everyone you meet. The subs and people who do lots of the actual install make this business happen," explains Holly. "Those relationships should be cherished and well-respected."
They are relationships that she's built over the last 20 years, but don't think that makes her unadaptable. "Access online has broadened knowledge and sources for everyone-- clients and designers alike," she shares. "I have a love/hate relationship with Pinterest because the client can peruse ideas for days and get so confused. Yet, it has become an integral tool for me with secret boards for each project. It is a way for clients and I to share ideas easily."
Iris Apfel is another huge influence on the designer. A woman who Holly says is a true design icon. She has been, "an interior designer, a textile designer, a business owner, a shopaholic and she has now become a fashion icon. I respect her desire to not be swayed by trends bit to dress for herself," Holly says. "I have always abided by her 'more is more and less is a bore' philosophy."
"I have always abided by her 'more is more and less is a bore' philosophy."
Tweet this.
Things have also changed a bit since she was 12 browsing antiques in faraway places, but the travel component of her work has not. To get into travel mode Holly says, "I research like nobodies business! I cull my design friends for their knowledge of the location. I research travel guides for each location ad nauseam to find all the best spots prior to a trip. I make a Pinterest board. I map everything on Google maps and make a very set itinerary." And yet she's remains open spontaneity. "Plan and over plan so you can go with the flow and relax knowing you didn't miss a thing."
Don't miss anything on Holly's list of her favorite spots in Charlotte below.
Best spot in Charlotte to be inspired: The Mint Museum
Grab a morning cup of coffee: At home, my husbands coffee is the best. Love Amelie’s in Noda or Little Spoon for a weekend treat.
Grab an afternoon cup of coffee: Starbucks because it is 100 yards from my office. I wish Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf was in Charlotte.
Tourist spot that’s a guilty pleasure: Pinky’s Westside Grill - Get the Pimpin’ Fries smothered in pimento cheese…worth the heart attack.
Tourist spot that you’ve never visited: Nascar Hall of Fame
Best under the radar shopping spot: Hidell Brooks Gallery for incredible art, Sleepy Poet for an occasional random design score.
Find amazing vintage: Slate Interiors
Your favorite spot in Charlotte to sit and be still: Foxcroft Wine Company with great bottle of Cali Chard and cheese plate.
A restaurant that has amazing food: Kindred in Davidson is by far the best restaurant in the area!
A restaurant that has amazing interior decor: Kindred or Reid’s for chic french bistro style…or Halcyon at The Mint Museum. (This is not Charlotte’s forte…I would love to design one chic interior.)
Be sure to check back on our final stop of the year with Marriott Hotels. Up next: we are heading to Seattle, WA.
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
5 New Skills You Can Learn On Your Lunch Break
The key to being a boss is maximizing every opportunity you have, even lunch time.
FEELING THE SLUMP OF THE WORK WEEK AND THE CALL OF THE WEEKEND? YEAH, US TOO. AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHY WE NEED TO SWITCH GEARS, MENTALLY SPEAKING.
Earlier this week, we published an article about how easy it is to fall into a "living for the weekend" mentality, even when you think you're doing OK. We're all guilty of spending too much time scrolling our Instagram feeds and not enough learning new skills. So we gave ourselves a challenge, and now we're giving it to you:
We dare you to learn one new skill before Monday.
Lately, the Career Contessa team has been obsessed with Skillshare, an online learning community with 2,500+ classes on every topic imaginable. The best part for us is that it lets you learn at your own pace. We work flex hours here so our schedules can feel erratic at times. Taking courses online makes sense. You can enroll at any hour, on any day, and from anywhere. I even took a class on making the perfect cup of coffee (with Blue Bottle's Director of Training) one Sunday morning when I had nothing to do. Brunch learning = bliss.
The other major appeal of Skillshare is its cool factor. This isn't like taking an online Accounting 101 course taught by some guy sporting a spectacular combover. The instructors are real people (and often they're influencers you already know and admire) with actual experience in the topics they're teaching. If we had to describe it, Skillshare is sort of like taking a buzzy Soulcycle class mixed with a pithy TED talk.
Oh, and one last thing: you can sign up for three months of full access to their library for $0.99.
Here are some of our favorites so far:
1. THE MODERN MARKETING WORKSHOP WITH SETH GODIN
Marketing...AKA the beast in your office closet. I'm thankful every day that our Marketing Manager exists so that I get to kick back and write and edit listicles like this. Still, I knew I could benefit from knowing a little more about what she does (last week she had to teach me the term "flat lay." Mind blown). Godin's workshop is definitely one of the heavier classes Skillshare offers—there's even supplemental reading material and interviews—but it's worth it. Perfect if you're hunting for a new job or considering a career shift. We all know what hot commodities marketing skills are.
2. HOW TO PRESENT: SHARE IDEAS THAT INSPIRE ACTION WITH SIMON SINEK
I hate presenting anything ever. It's hard enough showing people your work, let alone explaining to them why it's valuable—especially if there's a podium involved. Cue Simon Sinek, who also happens to be one of the heroes of the marketing world (you've probably seen his renowned TED talk). In his get-straight-to-it, 30-minute Skillshare class, Sinek teaches you ways to apply his philosophies to presenting your work publicly. Not one to miss, especially if you've got a big meeting coming up.
3. GET DISCOVERED WITH A KNOCKOUT PORTFOLIO WITH SARAH RAPP
Speaking of the importance of marketing: let's talk about marking yourself. If anyone knows how to cultivate an online presence, it's Sarah Rapp, Head of Community Management at Behance. We've said this before and we'll say it again: you need a portfolio. Rapp's got a few suggestions to get you started.
4. MAKING THE MOST OF INSTAGRAM: BUILD YOUR BRAND WITH GARRETH PON
Purely for our own amusement, Meghan and I have been creating these 30-day challenges for ourselves. Last month, we spent the month bringing our lunch from home. This month, we've been trying to grow our Instagram followers to see if all those tips and tricks you read actually work. So when I spotted Pon's class, I enrolled immediately. If you're a freelancer, trying to build a side hustle, or just trying to find a new job, your Instagram is a great platform for showing your style and building a loyal following, i.e. people who just might land you your next gig. Worth learning some pointers.
5. LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY: CAPTURING FOOD, FLAVORS, CONVERSATION WITH MARTE MARIE FORSBERG
I've been a loyal follower of Forsberg's Instagram for years (her lighting) —but that doesn't mean I can boast any real photography skills myself. If there's one thing I'd like to get better at personally this year, it's photography. At some point, maybe I'll enroll in a pricey in-person class to get down and dirty with 35mm, but in the meantime, this was a great place to start. Plus, it should help with that whole Instagram following thing (see #3).
WHAT WE'RE EXCITED TO TAKE NEXT
We're just too excited to leave it at five, I guess. Here's what I've got saved for later (yes, Skillshare lets you do that):
Intro to Surface Pattern Design: Learn Adobe Illustrator and Create Patterns: Because, you know, I like patterns?
Knife Skills: A Mini Class to Chop Like a Chef: Because I almost cut my thumb off last week.
Drawing on Everything: Discovering Your Creative Voice: Because I'm stalker-level obsessed with Shantell Martin and her illustrations.
Storytelling for Leaders: How to Craft Stories That Matter: Because. Duh.
* * *
What's the next class you plan on taking?
An original version of this article appeared on Career Contessa.
Links We Love: Mitigating Fake News, Working During Your Commute & Presents for Everyone!
TGIF, am I right?
We're in holiday limbo. The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas where it's super hard to stay focused at work.
We're guilty of it. Which is why we're sharing with you all the links we've read through in between emails all week. ;)
Why did Rihanna and Prince Harry get HIV tests together? Find out.
If you want to buy your BFF the cheapest gift from the most expensive brands. Like soap, from Chanel.
Interviews with 100 American workers on what their jobs are really like.
Fake news was pretty popular this election cycle. Snap (formerly Snapchat) managed to keep it out. But how?
Do you have a NIGHTMARE commute? If you're not the driver, here's how to get work done during those to and fro moments.
If you think that the Sunday after Thanksgiving is rightfully called "F**k, I Have To Go Back To Work Tomorrow Sunday", then you're most likely to retweet these tweets.
Are you assertive at work? You might be getting paid more than your "nice" coworkers.
Spotify knows what you're listening to, and it has no chill when it comes to outing you for listening to Holiday music in July.
Wondering how Snapchat revolutionized social networks? Here's how.
Trevor Noah v.s Tomi Lahren. That is all.
C&C Classifieds Nº18: Pressed Juicery, Hypebeast, WeWork, and more!
Get a head start on your new year's career resolutions.
As we wrap up November, and look towards the end of 2016, some of us are starting to write in out our New Year's resolutions. If finding the next step in your career has made it onto your list, we're here to help.
Don't wait 'til January 1st to start applying to new jobs - step into 2017 with good vibes and a new job under your belt. Sign up below to see this week's selects from Google, Hypebeast, TBWA\Chiat\Day, We Work, Pressed Juicery, and more!
If you have signed up for access to the C&C Classifieds before, click here.
Do You Really Need a Four Year Degree?
4 year degree may (or may not) be required.
While only 46% of people ages 25-29 had completed an associates degree or higher as of 2015, the pay gap between college graduates and everyone else reached a record high in 2013, based on an analysis of Labor Department statistics by the Economic Policy Institute in Washington. Americans with four-year college degrees made 98 percent more an hour on average in 2013 than people without a degree. That’s up from 89 percent five years earlier, 85 percent a decade earlier and 64 percent in the early 1980s.
It seems like everywhere you look, someone has a side hustle or is dabbling in entrepreneurship, which brings up the question of “Do you really need a four year degree?” There is no perfect answer for everyone, however it is important to look at the benefits of obtaining a four year degree. When you’re debating if a four year degree is right for you, ask yourself three main questions:
- What do you want to do/What is your ideal job?
- Do you want to create something for yourself or would you rather work for someone else/a larger company?
- In your desired field of work, what is the required degree? Does there seem to be a minimum level of education which you must have in order to be successful in that field?
What Do You Want to Do?
This question is harder than it looks, however it is the basis of determining the answer to “Do you really need a four year degree?” Determining what you want to do will help you figure out what kind of education may be required and what path you should take.
For instance, if you want to go into a more creative field such as art or music, perhaps you can forgo the four year degree and focus on a program which truly enhances your abilities through a nontraditional route. On the other hand, if you want to go into a sector of science or engineering, you most definitely need a four year degree to obtain a job and get the required licensure.
Do You Want to Create Something for Yourself or Work for a Larger Company?
The real question here is, are you going to be paid by a larger company, or are you going to work for yourself/run your own business? Figuring out if you want to create your own company/business or work for an established organization can help determine the amount of schooling you need. While a four year degree would be extremely beneficial in both instances, a four year degree will enable you to obtain higher wages if you’re working for another company, whereas you may be able to get away without a four year degree if you are working for yourself.
If you are trying to go into the corporate world or at least start there, a four year degree will give you the basis and foundation to obtain the kind of job(s) and pay that you want.
In Your Desired Field of Work, What Is the Required Degree?
Once you’ve determined what path you want to take and/or what job you want to obtain, go online and do some research. Is there a common degree that is required? Do most of the jobs you’re aiming for either now or in the future require a certain certification? If so, what are the steps to getting certified? Do you need a minimum amount of education? Figure out what you need to do education-wise to qualify for the job you want.
Do You Really Need a Four Year Degree?
While there are people who can get away without having a four year degree, it will always benefit you, and will almost always be necessary to obtain a high level job in this day and age.
The bottom line is that if you are applying for a job, and it comes down to you and one other candidate who are completely equal, employers will have to split hairs to decide who they want to hire. In this instance, they will often choose the candidate who has a better education. Similarly, full-time workers ages 25 and over without a high school diploma had median weekly earnings of $504, compared with $700 for high school graduates, (no college) and $1,266 for those holding at least a bachelor’s degree. Not only will you learn a lot about yourself and your industry through a college degree, you will be able to make more than your peers who are not college educated.
If you have the opportunity, getting a four year degree will benefit you in many ways, both socially and in the workforce. Think that a traditional college education isn’t for you? Explore other options such as online or community college classes to educate yourself based on what you want and need.
Do you really need a four year degree? While it isn’t 100% necessary, it will greatly benefit you and make life easier in the long run.
A native San Franciscan, Michele Lando is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and founder of writestylesonline.com. She has a passion for helping others present the best version of themselves, both on paper and in person, and works to polish individuals' application package and personal style. Aiming to help create a perfect personal branding package, Write Styles presents tips to enhance your resume, style, and boost your confidence.
4 Ways To Work Your Professional Network
Your LinkedIn connections aren't there just to up your connection count.
Source: The Spicy Stiletto
With an increasing number of digital tools meant to create ‘connections’ at our fingertips today, it is becoming more confusing to navigate the idea of building a professional network.
Is your network...the number of connections you have on LinkedIn?
The number of professional mentorship groups you belong to?
Or is it, simply, the people you have worked with in your current and past jobs?
Consider Dunbar’s number, which states that the average human being can comfortably maintain stable relationships with 150 people, compared to the average number of LinkedIn connections a person has: 930! As the term ‘network’ gets muddled in the digital realm, I’ve found that focusing on a few key tactics will help you to build a fruitful, established, professional network IRL.
Set your intention
No, I don’t mean in your yoga class.
Before beginning to think about how to grow your professional network, think about what you want your professional network to be for you. Do you want to learn more about an industry you’re not currently involved in? Learn how to advance your career in your current role? Are you looking to learn how to balance work and life? Answering these questions will help you determine what type of people you need more of in your professional life.
Set up a coffee with the future you
It's easy to believe that the more meetings you have, the more productive you’re being. I’ve found that a more focused approach to building a professional network is far more effective than casting a wide net.
When you’re trying to grow your network, build a list of titles you think align with your career growth path. Then, reach out to those around you who have those titles, set up a coffee, and start learn what they do, and how they got to where they are today.
Setting an intention will help you determine what type of people you need more of in your professional life.
Tweet this.
Focus on quality, not quantity
There is definitely such a thing as having too many professional connections.
Your ability to dedicate energy and focus to your relationships decreases with the volume of people you’re trying to connect with. Instead of reaching out to every person in a senior leadership role at your company, focus on building deeper relationships with one or two people you naturally connect with, and whose role you admire. Try to have 10 coffees with 2 people, instead of 2 coffees with 10 people. And don’t force a relationship with someone you don’t naturally connect with, no matter what their title is.
Make it a two-way street
Building your network isn’t just about getting advice and support - it’s also about giving those things. Often times, when we connect with someone we admire, we forget that the other person wants to be fulfilled by the relationship as well.
I have a ‘friend-tor’ whose career I admire greatly, and who gives me tons of advice. In return, I offer him a fresh perspective on his position as a leader, and give him feedback that people he works with on a daily basis may not be giving him. As in any type of relationship, consider what you’re bringing to the table.
Your network is a living breathing thing
Keep in mind that your professional network may grow, shrink or change as you continue on your career path. Some connections you may form could turn into friendships, while others may become obsolete the further you move along in your path. Maintaining connections is important, but also remember that the purpose of a professional network is to help your career flourish - not to be the most popular young professional in your city.
This was originally published on Shine, a daily messaging experience to help you live your best life.
7 Small Businesses to Shop From Home
We're choosing slippers over parking lots today.
photo credit: L’Appel Eyewear
Today is Small Business Saturday, which means tons of independent shops and small retailers are marking down products.
But if you're not mentally prepared to peel yourself from the couch quite yet or maybe you just took down your last plate of leftovers and are in the mood for slippers over shoes (no judgement) there are plenty of small businesses you can peruse from the comforts of home (or grandma's couch, if applicable). Choosing local and comfortable? Sounds like a win/win.
Check out the 7 businesses we're giving a browse today.
LOOKING FOR A NYE OUTFIT?
You need it? They have it. And take an extra 20% off sale items code BLACKFRIDAY through Sunday at 11:59pm
There is plenty of eye-candy clothing up for grabs. From plaid pants to chic black overalls, take 20% and more off on brands including Calder Blake, Rodebjer, Robert Clergerie, Horses Atelier and more.
Get deep discounts on brands including Valentino, Maison Margiela, Givenchy, Haider Ackerman, Saint Laurent, Chloe and many more luxury brands.
IF YOU WANT THE PERFECT JEAN
Taking vintage Levi's and reshaping them, Redone has the a fit for everyone. Shop the Redone sale on denim-- styles range from cropped to flared and everything in between.
IF YOU'RE TRYING TO SPRUCE UP YOUR HOME
From quirky accessories to cool coffee table books, you can score up to 25% off Poketo site wide. Or you can stock up on stocking stuffers for the whole fam.
A GIFT FOR THE MAN IN YOUR LIFE
If dear old dad, your brother, or your hubby live in white or heather gray tees, button downs, and keeps it classic head over to Apolis Global or Buck Mason. Both stores are offering deals for the ruggedly handsome gentleman in your life.
Found anything great today? Share the goods in the comments below!
MORE FROM OUR BLOG
Links We Love: Tackling the Mental Health Convo & 11 Stars Using Their Voices for Good
Too stuffed to move? All you gotta do is click.
photo credit: Studio DIY
This week: Obama pardoned his last turkey and you ate your fill of yours. Oh and two ladies you should totally know about won Medals of Freedom, the highest honor awarded to civilians. Play catch-up on the week's news below!
From ashes to hope: one Palestinian girl's amazing invention.
These women in Hollywood are using their platform for good. 11 stars who became political activists.
Hannah Hart's book Buffering addresses the mental health convo. And the stigmas she wants to change.
What have HRC supporters learned from her loss? A portrait series is asking: Where Do We Go From Here?
What came first the self or the seflie? And is social media disconnecting us from the BIG picture?
The White House honored these two women in tech with Medals of Freedom. They were instrumental in the early days of computers.
Making both our bodies and our hearts warm this holiday season-- your feel good news of the week.
Chicago indie band OK GO is known for pushing the envelope with their music videos. What did they do this time? And what does Morton salt have to do with it?
MORE FROM OUR BLOG