#WorkingItWednesday: Building a Brighter Future (and having fun doing it)

Oakland, California, long a hub for artists and musicians is now ranked as one of the top culinary destinations in the United States. Inspired by the city's ethnic diversity and foodie culture, restauranteurs are pouring into the numerous developing neighborhoods. Entrepreneurs Ann Thai and Loren Goodwin, both Oakland residents with backgrounds in food, hospitality and event planning are pursuing a passion project of bringing an indoor market, flower shop and butchery called Newberry Market & Deli to the city's Uptown neighborhood as the anchor tenant in the renovation of the historic Sears Building. Ann and Loren are poised to play a critical role in the revitalization of their hometown; the market will bring affordable, sustainable, locally sourced products to residents and visitors and create at least 200 new jobs in the process. Years of close friendship and a mutual passion for making bold career moves lend their partnership an easy, lighthearted energy that investors, partners and other stakeholders find refreshing in it's authenticity. #WorkingIt to make change on a large scale takes focus and commitment and, as this duo proves, a lot of heart. 

#WorkingItWednesday: Business formal that isn't stuffy.

An effective image instantly communicates that you are credible, trustworthy and likable. Sandra radiates these qualities this #WorkingItWednesday! As an Insurance Risk Consultant, communicating authority and engendering trust are paramount, so her daily uniform consists of sharp, business formal pieces like this sleek skirt suit. By accessorizing with a slim belt, interesting shoe and a fun bag she also proves her great attention to detail: a critical quality in her field. Consistent from top to toe, Sandra is setting the tone that she delivers on high expectations so we weren't too surprised to learn that her fabulous bag was a gift from a client she once helped while volunteering with a kidney donor matching nonprofit. Way to #WorkIt by letting your character shine through your outward appearance, Sandra!

#WorkingItWednesday: Playing With Proportions

Amy is an outreach coordinator for a Santa Barbara-based food bank and interfaces frequently with clients and donors alike. Her polished look reflects the level of trust she works to engender in each of those stakeholder groups. The fun print of her dress conveys her enthusiasm and passion while the crisp white jacket ups the level of authority. Amy professes an abiding love of high heels but is mindful of the proportion of heel height to hem length. Her flats strike the perfect balance, keeping the look professional rather than provocative in any way. Way to #WorkIt, Amy!

#WorkingItWednesday: Singing the (happy) blues.

As an environmental planner in a casual male-dominated engineering firm, Lesley plays up her femininity in fun dresses that play up her femininity without coming across as "precious". The bright cobalt blue is cheerful and approachable and the loose fit of the dress provides comfort while still being polished. Paired with opaque tights, this dress is professional without a hint of stuffiness. Way to #WorkIt, Lesley!

#WorkingItWednesday: Baby It's Cold Outside

It's chilly this ‪#‎WorkingItWednesday‬! 

Jing keeps his layers polished by mixing shades of gray and navy; a monochromatic look is instantly elegant. Though he works in a fairly formal office environment, his work group isn't customer facing and is therefore more casual. He ups his presentation of business casual with an edgy hairstyle (versus a plain haircut) and rich silver bit detailing on his loafers. Way to ‪#‎WorkIt‬, Jing!

Photo credit: Nathan Williams Photography