This past month I was introduced to Better Off Ted, a show that lasted only two seasons (but it is on Netflix!). Besides the crazy corporation the characters work for and its daily shenanigans, the science humor and the hilarious 4th wall-breaking from the leading man Ted Crisp (played by Jay Harrington), there is also the boss lady Veronica. Veronica Palmer, played by Portia de Rossi (Ellen DeGeneres’ wifey), does robotic and cheeky so well. I think half of what makes Veronica so intimidating is her wardrobe, so it made me think about other characters in popular TV shows that have to dress the part of professional. And no, not like Mad Men, though I do admire the chic outfits, they’re still more like costumes to me. Here’s some more modern outfits you can get some fashion inspiration from for your work day wardrobe.


Veronica Palmer – A lot of skirt suits, collars, and what Veronica calls “a very powerful hairstyle.” The up-do is a pretty classic hairstyle that means business. The high collars, turtle necks, especially the ruffled ones, that Veronica wears look sophisticated without making her look Victorian. Here’s a cool interview with the stylist Brandy Lusvardi who worked on the costumes for de Rossi’s character at Corporette if you’re interested.


Lisa Cuddy – One of the few female characters on House M.D., played by Lisa Edelstein (and who sadly won’t be in the next season). I never know what doctors consider professional clothing since they always have their white coats on and could get away with PJs if they wanted to. But one thing Dr. Cuddy always manages to show is a necklace, something that’s easily forgotten when putting together an outfit (at least for me). A statement necklace, even with a simple top and skirt, makes you look finished. And the half up hairstyle is pretty easy. Remember: necklace and hair, can make people stare.


MacKenzie MacHale – A favorite character of mine on The Newsroom, played by Emily Mortimer. Also, for being an executive producer, a job that requires her to be working almost 24/7, this character manages to put together some nice outfits. Button-ups seem to be the go-to, which makes sense since they look nice without trying too hard. Just have plenty in an assortment of colors if you’re working a high energy job that doesn’t give you a lot of time to get ready on the fly. K.I.S.S.: Keep It Simple Silly.

So there’s a few of TV’s career women that have some good looks for the office. It’s always tough to decide whether you should dress for work or let the work decide how you should dress. I tend to decide based on the work.

What about you, do you dress the same for work no matter the job or do you decide how to dress based on the work you do?

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