Adam Glassman
Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
Q: I'm an administrative assistant who needs to look presentable on a limited budget. A suit feels like overkill. Can you help?
A: I'm guessing you sit behind a desk, so think like a news anchor and focus on dressing from the waist up: cute tops, prints, scarves—anything with a little neckline detail or embellishment. Transform a simple white shirt by adding a statement necklace.

And the suit may be dead, but that doesn't mean you can't resuscitate one in your closet and wear the pieces as separates. A jacket will give you a sense of authority—play with it! Turn up the collar, add a pin, or roll the sleeves.

See 3 office-appropriate looks that won't break the bank

 Printed blouse, skirt and scarf
Blouse, $45; TheLimited.com.
Skirt, $29; ShapeFX.com.
Scarf, $48; AnnTaylor.com.
Necklace, $75; JessicaSimpsonCollection.com.
Belt, $54; HoboBags.com.

Next: A polished dress and jacket ensemble

 Dress and jacket
Jacket, Norma Kamali for WalMart, $20; Walmart.com.
Dress, Calvin Klein, $128; CalvinKlein.com.
Necklace, R.J. Graziano, $65; 212-685-1248.

Next: A brightly-colored shift dress

Belted shift dress
Belted shift dress, $40; DressBarn.com for stores.
Necklace, R.J. Graziano, $75; 212-685-1248.

Next: Roomy work bags Adam loves

From the March 2010 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine

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