Professional white outfit

Photo: Sergio Kurhajec

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White Lie #2: "White is only for brides and the beach."
—Cynthia Sleet, 29, commercial litigation attorney

As a lawyer, Sleet has adopted a daily uniform of gray, navy, and black and considers white clothing too casual and seasonal for the workplace. "On the weekends, I would like to think I mix it up," she says. "But I wear a lot of black then, too."

Think Again:
A shapely denim pencil skirt (Ellen Tracy, $60) with a cream V-neck blouse (Vince, $185) under a tan suede jacket (Club Monaco, $495) is fresh and bright while still looking sleek and professional. "I feel really put-together," says Sleet. "It's definitely something I could wear to the office instead of a suit."
Earrings, Nashelle Jewelry. Ring, Fantasy Jewelry Box. Shoes, Cole Haan.