We’ve all heard the saying “pretty is as pretty does.” But what exactly does it mean, and more importantly, what is its ultimate message? To be ‘pretty’ is to be attractive, eye-catching, and memorable to others. But to ‘do’ pretty – that is a completely different notion.
To ‘do’ pretty is to present yourself in the best way possible. So, if you present yourself as the best you, you will be the best you. By presenting yourself in a confident, sophisticated manner, others will see you that way. So where in this little life lesson do clothes fit in? Trust me, there is a point to my madness…
So many women, myself included, get caught up in the craziness of life that they forget the little things – namely, how to ‘do’ pretty in the work place. It is important to note, however, that pretty in the workplace is much different than pretty at another occasion. So why only put the time in at a fancy dinner and not at work? Perhaps its as simple as this – many women just get to the point where they don’t care.
Hadley Emerson invites you and your tired work attire to a challenge. It’s as simple as this: apply ‘pretty is as pretty does’ to work. Or, as I’d like to call it, “professional is as professional wears.” You may giggle at my seriousness, but this is a concept that each and every working woman can use to her advantage. If you want to be professional, you have to look professional! Tailor your clothing to match your inner greatness! Check out our take on professional work wear for the modern working woman – shouldn’t you look as powerful as you feel?

Dolman Sly Madilyn Dress in Mauve Dust – $108
Shown with:
- Ajariel Handbag in White – $95
- Grace Necklace in Coral – $54
This is such a classic dress! The neutral color of the dress allows you to play with the color of your accessories. We chose the coral necklace and the white bucket bag to add a touch of spring. This outfit is completely work appropriate, but is stylish nonetheless!
Nicole Bell Sleeve Dress – $184
Shown with:
- Marilyn Pearl Necklace – $48
Shift dresses are so in and so cute! We love the pattern and bright color of this one! We paired with a knotted strand of pearls to balance the busy pattern of the dress. Try with bold, solid-colored flats (perhaps bright orange) to add an additional pop of color, or nude is the dress is enough color for your taste.

Soft Crepe Top in Black – $68
Caprivilla Skirt in Jade/Silver – $218
This jade and silver skirt is absolutely stunning, and thankfully is the perfect length for work! We paired it with a solid top to accentuate the high waist of the skirt, and to play off of the black lining of the pattern.

Stacy Dress in Multi Pink – $188
Shown with:
-Sheer Rayon Cardigan – $88
-Clover Necklace in Orange – $48
-Skinny Bow Belt in Orange – $56
This ruffled collar dress is cute enough on its own, but we paired it with this sheer-back black cardigan to make it a little more comfortable for a professional setting. We added the clover necklace and bow belt to bring out the orange in the dress, and to add a touch of style. Adding accessories makes an outfit uniquely yours – so don’t shy away from subtle accessories when dressing for the job!

Après Tennis Mini Dress – $268
Shown with:
- Madison Lucite Medal Necklace in White – $48
- Ajcourt Silver/White ZigZag Bag – $95
Who ever thought gray could look so good, right? We love the simplicity of this dress, and we used both the necklace and the handbag to bring out the best of the dress, and to add some dimension.

Ruffle Collar Top in Yellow – $108
Parisian Button Skirt in Navy – $78
Shown with:
-Alanis Necklace – $68
-Raffia Straw Clutch in Natural/White – $58
This is Parisian chic! The skirt is a statement in itself with its cream-colored collar and navy buttons, but the yellow top adds dramatic color without being too bold. The straw clutch is fun and summery, and the necklace is classy without being to flashy. J’adore!

V Neck Sleeveless Top in Ecru – $74
Black Bow Skirt – $194
Shown with:
-Madison Lucite Medal Necklace in Black – $48
This beautiful black bow skirt is school girl chic and totally work appropriate! We paired it with an ecru top to soften the boldness of the black, and added a black necklace to tie the look together.