If you’re anything like me, readers, you already stash the obvious in your cubicle or office: a trusty Tide to Go pen to clean up a coffee stain; extra nylons in case of runs. You probably even have a blazer tossed over the back of your chair lest you be summoned to an unexpected client meeting. But I’ve got some other handy items to add to your collection. Read on for five work essentials that will ease your already harried lawyer’s mind:
Go-anywhere flats. I don’t mean the pair you’re already wearing, the cute ones that go with your outfit. I mean a practical spare pair, tucked away in a drawer, that can be called upon when you suddenly have to head to court or a client meeting across town, or even engage in delivery law (you students and first years know what I’m talking about). The best kind are “foldable” — check out Fit in Clouds’ options here. For under thirty bucks, you get a stylish and comfy pair that can be popped right back in your bag when you’re done with ‘em, snug in their custom-made pouch. Another option is the super-cheap Dr. Scholls’ Fast Flats (available at Wal-Mart, Target and the like).
Dry shampoo. Ever had one of those days when you’ve greased up your clean hair by lunchtime? I’ve been there (insert image of Style Counsel pulling her hair out here). For those of you who haven’t already tried dry shampoo, it’s awesome. Cheap and easy, the powdered formula makes your hair look and smell freshly washed. Sephora has tons of different options, and I like that its website contains product reviews. Alternatively, your local Shopper’s Drug Mart has a number of slightly cheaper brands, such as Batiste.
A clutch. I feel so cool when I head out for dinner or drinks after work and spend the first 30 minutes trying to figure out where in God’s name I’m going to stash my giant work bag. It’s especially fun when my bag takes up an entire chair at the dinner table, or ends up stuffed underneath my feet, scuff-marked and covered in spills from a friend’s martini. Solution? Keep a cool clutch around that you can fill with the essentials and leave that work bag where it belongs – at work (spare me the details of how you’ll be “working from home” later – you and I both know that after that third gin and tonic, the only thing you’ll be working is your hips on the dance floor). I’m loving the New Look Ariel Sleek Envelope Clutch and the ASOS Leather Clutch Bag in Faux Pony, both available from British e-retailer Asos (now shipping to Canada). Or head to Forever 21 and pick up the classy and versatile Oversize Faux Leather Clutch. See? You’ve instantly transformed from serious lawyer to hip girl-about-town.
Baby Wipes. Oh, baby wipes. How I love thee. Whether you actually purchase wipes intended for actual babies or pick up the fancier ones marketed to adults (the possibilities are endless, from Aveeno to Life Brand to Burt’s Bees; choose something that’s all-purpose and gentle), baby wipes are truly an office essential. Use them to freshen up when it’s hot and humid outside, or after a particularly sweat-inducing presentation. Use them after that brutal all-nighter, the one where you literally have not showered and must attempt to look and act like a normal person. Use them to revive your tired face during a particularly stressful day. I’m telling you: buy some, stick ‘em in your drawer and enjoy.
And finally…
Big scarf or wrap. It might seem odd, but every one of you should have one cozy scarf or wrap stashed away for certain “emergencies”: a late night slogging through diligence; an exceptionally cold day at the office. Or just to use as you would your childhood blankie (I won’t judge if you just need to cuddle it during a difficult closing).
Tell me, readers: are you already on board with any of the above? What are your less-than-obvious work essentials?
Emma Williamson is a fashion-obsessed corporate commercial lawyer at Dentons. Her mission is to inspire Precedent’s female readers to break out of a style rut while obeying obvious and not-so-obvious workplace dress codes. Follow her on Twitter: @EmmaWorkStyle. Have questions or a column idea for Emma? Send them here.
Image: ewg3D via iStockphoto