Being Geek Chic is the yammerings of a Midwestern nerd named Elizabeth Giorgi. My vision impairment is real, which is frustrating because I really would like to see a 3D movie.
Send questions, requests and ideas to [email protected]. Please put your complaints on a napkin and toss it.
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19th September 2012
Geeky at Work: Are you a Geek for Hire?
Traditionally, this column has been about how to dress and present yourself at work while retaining your geek side.
Today, I want to go in a little different direction. I want to talk about being a geek and looking for a job.
Are you a GEEK FOR HIRE?
Or are you just another person for hire?
Here’s why I ask: In my professional opinion, being the designated geek in my office earns me certain responsibilities. You can’t open a file? Call Liz, she’s tech support. Have a little SEO problem? Call Liz, she understands the internet. Your client wants to buy a Facebook ad? Call Liz, she’s good at social media.
See, being a geek goes hand in hand with being knowledgeable. Being knowledgeable means you become a resource to your colleagues and boss. All of those things bode well for you. Not only do you kick ass at your job responsibilities, but you’re slowly becoming irreplaceable.
Question: Does your resume reflect your geek cred?
I know, I know. I’ve hired many people in my life. It’s all about who you know and the interview. Who you know will get you an interview, but it won’t get you a job. In this scenario, you’ve beaten the odds and you’ve gotten an interview because you’ve got a resume that reflects your geek cred.
We all know interviews are awkward, but as a hiring authority if I see that you managed to get #sherlockisalive trending with your friends one weekend, then that gives us something to talk about. And it shows your Internet prowess.
I don’t know why more “job coaches” don’t tell you this, but it’s OK to show your human side when you are applying for a job. Use the formula to your advantage. Show that you know how to manipulate it to tell the potential employer who you are. Yes, you’re a programmer who can write all the languages that they need - but so will 100 other people applying for the job. What makes you a better programmer? Do you regularly program websites for free for a non-profit in your city? That’s the kind of thing I’m looking for.
I shared my resume with you because I think it’s helpful to see this in action. For example, on my resume I have a rather large section called “Nerd Stuff” - which takes up almost a third of the page. In this section, I talk about this blog and my video production skills. On the top of my resume, I tell you right off who I am. I’m @lizgiorgi and if you want a slice of my personality and thoughts then go read some tweets. I’m also a writer. nerd. filmmaker.
Again, a resume is a list of qualifications, but it can also be a story. Tell a story about who you are, what you do and what you hope to do. Give people a reason to care about you and call you.
Here’s your checklist:
1. What amazing internet stunt have you pulled off?
2. What websites have you contributed to?
3. What clubs or organizations have you developed at your college or in your town?
4. What crazy famous person retweeted you?
5. What world records do you hold? Or impressive title?
Are any of these things on your resume? No? Go. Do it now. Make it better. Tell your story. Get hired.
Then, don’t blame me when you’re helping people update their software. Smile politely, think about the fact that you have a nice swivel chair to sit on and then YouTube this later.
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12th September 2012
The economics of your shopping habits
After chatting about clothes for two years, I thought it was about time we talked about the economics of shopping habits. I hinted about this last week, but I have a very specific way I measure whether or not something is worth buying.
I break it down to cost PER wear NOT cost on the tag.
Why? Because cheap items are cheaply made. Some expensive items aren’t practical. As a result, the poorly made items simply can’t be worn as often and the expensive items end up being pricey closet decorators.
For me, if the cost of an item per wear is $0.75 or less, I buy it. If it’s between $0.75 and $1.25, I try to determine whether or not the item could be sold when I’m done with it to make up the difference OR if I can find a coupon or wait for a sale.
If it’s more than $1.25 per wear, I’ll usually put it back on the shelf. Without further ado, here’s a helpful infographic to explain:
I hope you can refer to this when you’re shopping so you spend your money wisely and end up being happy with your wardrobe. I also hope that the series on fashion basics has been helpful for all of you. According to Google, there are 300-500 of you visiting me everyday, but you don’t all comment so I can only guess that the lack of “rabble rabbles” means approval.
For those of you that do comment, thanks. It really helps me figure out if the things I’m doing are working for you. I want to be like the most responsive customer service line ever. (Within reason. If you tell me to eff off or that my fandom sucks, well, screw you.) As proof, I’m working on two new video series based off your comments. And one of them has to do with scarves. Thanks to you, I’ve realized that I haven’t fully explored my love of them. (Can you blame me? Sheesh, Benedict.) A couple helpful tweets, a comment and an email later and an idea is born. Can’t wait.
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5th September 2012
Geeky at Work: Back to Basics on Accessories
When I’m having a crappy, crappy day - I think about this gif. It embodies so many things I love. Sherlock Holmes. Scarves. Curly hair. Benny Cumber. CHEEK BONES. It’s the power of the Internets. Someone else had a similar feeling of “wowee” when first gazing upon this shot in Sherlock Series 2 and thought it would be worth the Photoshoppy effort of capturing sexiness and Englishness and Moffat-brilliance.
Let’s focus on that scarf for a moment, though.
Man. Woman. Or child. The scarf is a staple. It is the epitome of sartorial sophistication. All wardrobes should include at least one. Or, seven. (In extreme cases, see my closet for twelve.)
Scarves: Neck warmers. Hickie hiders. Necklace alternatives. Tee-shirt upgraders. Art displayers. Bad hair day savers. Potter Fandom Identifiers.
I could go on. But I’ll spare you.
And of course all this all brings me to the topic of the day: the importance of accessories in the modern working woman’s wardrobe.
As you may know - I’ve been focused on giving you some tips on the basics of wardrobe building for the professional lady. It all started because a very lovely reader named Amanda emailed me a couple weeks ago and said:
“I am starting a job where I need to dress in business casual for most of the week (I am entering a Ph.D program and will be working as a TA). The problem is that I do not have a lot of the staples for a diverse business casual wardrobe and—as a graduate student—I do not have a lot of money to spend. I have the “geeky” part down, but the “at work” part could use a little work. What are some business casual wardrobe staples that go well with a touch of geekiness?”
And here we are - wrapping this up with a lovely display of scarves and visual accessory party:
Here’s your shopping list:
1. Quality jewelry: Here’s the scenario many of us face: You’ve graduated from college, shiny degree in hand and looming student loan debts due. You want to buy something for your wardrobe. Why not a necklace from Forever 21 for $4.80?! LISTEN TO ME: STOP. DON’T DO IT. Here’s why: you will wear that necklace exactly two times before it turns green and then turns your neck green. Cost per wear: $2.40 = BAD DEAL. Instead: spend the money on jewelry that is coated with 14K gold or made with sterling silver. Yes, it costs more - but you will own it forever and you won’t poison yourself. For example, the Kate Spade earrings above cost $38. I own three pairs of these 14K gold coated earrings, because I just keep swapping them out. I have worn the white pair AT LEAST 100 times. Cost per wear: $0.38 AND NO odd fungi-looking marks on my ears or neck. I also recommend waiting for things to go on clearance and perusing eBay. You can get better deals. Yes, you’ll only have 10 - 15 great pieces of jewelry - but they’ll be HIGH QUALITY PIECES that you will keep for years. I also recommend J. Crew (necklace pictured, $100) and Tory Burch (bracelet pictured, $148).
2. Statement watch: Yes, we all check the time on our computers and cell phones, but honestly, a big girl watch is worth it. People will take you more seriously. And other women will be jealous. If you’re on a limited budget, look for Fossil watches on eBay. If you’ve got a bit more cash - look for Michael Kors. Best of both worlds: Look for a Fossil Outlet store at your local outlet center. They carry both brands at major discounts. (Pictured here: Michael Kors, $225)
3. Flats: Black flats. Leopard flats. One colored or printed pair. All should be SO comfortable that you wear them to the grocery store and to walk around the mall. That’s critical. I love Steve Madden’s flats because there are always great deals and they’re always willing to blatantly copy the spendy brands.
4. Wedges: Move over stilettos. You can wait. Wedges are renting next door and I’m into it. They’re more comfortable. The added real estate means you can find all kinds of new variations on the shoe to wedge landscape. Even Target’s getting in on this property. (Merona, $29.99)
5. Scarves: See above manifesto. This H&M floral party is only $9.99. Yay. You can buy lots more scarves.
6. Great leather bag: You’re a grown up. Leave the pleather to the teenagers. You deserve a bag that won’t disintegrate if it gets too warm between your ribcage and arm pit. Seriously. I’m saving up for this sick Tory Burch ($358). It’s the Swiss Army Knife of Crossbody bags. It can fold over as pictured OR you can take off the strap and hold it as a clutch OR you can unfold it and attach the strap to a pair of hidden hooks inside the bag and use it as a tote. I’m obsessed.
7. Bad-ass sunglasses: I believe that your eyes are worthy of protection. And not just from UVA/UVB rays. Let me dissect: every once in a while I’ll be walking down the street and a person will give me a knowing look. I can read it on their face. With my eyes shaded, I can examine the specimen at hand and decide how to proceed without giving away my every emotion. This is also handy when running into a dude you once kissed at a party and you aren’t on your A game. Thanks Ray-Bans
.8. Wristlet: Sometimes a bag is just too much bag. My wristlet is the in between. Get your favorite color, slip cellular and credit card inside and proceed with your chic day. (Pictured: Kate Spade, $118)
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29th August 2012
Geeky at Work: Back to Basics on Dresses
I’m a big fan of dresses. Not foam finger like. More the, “yeah, I’ll pin that” type of fan. If I wake up in a sour mood, instead of automatically going for the comfy clothes - I’ll always try to force myself to put on a dress. It’s been said before: your clothes are your armor. Well, a dress is the chest plate pièce de résistance. In a dress, I feel stronger and prettier and more aware of myself.
Next time you wake up and the pillow seems like the only good idea for the day - think of your dress selection and reboot.
Truth is: this is all part of covering my fashion basics. Let’s remember how we got here. A very lovely reader named Amanda emailed me a couple weeks ago and said:
“I am starting a job where I need to dress in business casual for most of the week (I am entering a Ph.D program and will be working as a TA). The problem is that I do not have a lot of the staples for a diverse business casual wardrobe and—as a graduate student—I do not have a lot of money to spend. I have the “geeky” part down, but the “at work” part could use a little work. What are some business casual wardrobe staples that go well with a touch of geekiness?”
If you’re getting used to these posts, then you know that I’m going to provide you a shopping list.
Here’s your shopping list:
1. Black dress with detail: The LBD is a classic for going out with your girlfriends or for date night, but a full coverage black dress with a splashy detail can also be your best friend for work. This is your investment item. Wear it with a cardigan, a blazer or a white button up underneath. It’s classic and won’t go out of style. Pictured is Cynthia Rowley ($349) - keep your eye out for this brand at Marshall’s and TJ Maxx. They always have great deals on CR.
2. Figure flattering shift dress: A shift dress is easily recognizable: knee length, cap sleeve or at the least a wide shoulder, well-placed tucking at the waist. Pick your favorite color and go find it. Pictured is from H&M. ($34.95)
3. Shirt dress: A cotton dress that multi-tasks. Great for weekend while running errands with a pair of gladiator sandals. Just as cute with pointed toe flats and a blazer. Very “chic professor” - which by the way, is a worthwhile fashion goal. I love me some polka dots on this one from Target. ($39.99)
4. Wrap dress: If you don’t have this item, walk into any store and ask to see their wrap dresses. They’re everywhere. Why? Because they look good on basically any body type. Pair with a great big, bold statement necklace and you’ll be turning brains. Solid, print, whatever you like best. Pictured from Michael Kors. ($135)
We’re almost done with this series! Next week, accessories and then back to regularly scheduled programming.
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22nd August 2012
Geeky at Work: Back to Basics on Tops pt. 2
Last week, I gave you my rundown on the tops that go on top of tops. Now, the tops that go under or without.
But let’s take a moment to remember how we got here. A very lovely reader named Amanda emailed me a couple weeks ago and said:
“I am starting a job where I need to dress in business casual for most of the week (I am entering a Ph.D program and will be working as a TA). The problem is that I do not have a lot of the staples for a diverse business casual wardrobe and—as a graduate student—I do not have a lot of money to spend. I have the “geeky” part down, but the “at work” part could use a little work. What are some business casual wardrobe staples that go well with a touch of geekiness?”
1. Loose blouse with a fun feature. You’re going to see this a lot this week, but this is a “multi-use” item. Meaning, it works on the weekend with a hot pair of skinny jeans and your pumps. But it’s also really classy with your black suit. I like this leopard top from Old Navy, because it fits the bill and is only $15.
2. Simple tee with a twist. It can be a rhinestone feature, lace, an interesting neckline, a stripe. Whatever. This simple tee works with suits, cardigans and capris, skirts. It’s a wardrobe workhorse. Pictured here, lace tee from H&M ($9.95).
3. Figure flattering top. The peplum top is a big hit in fashion right now, because it looks good on the teeny tiny models and the girls with a little more curve. If you don’t like the peplum, think about what looks good on you and go for that shape. So if you think you’d look better in a cinched button up with a v-neck, that’s fine. This rule is all about finding something that really fits you well. Pictured here, top from H&M ($14.95).
4. Cotton neckline wonders. This is one of those items where you are probably going to want multiples. Cotton cowl neck tank? Check. Cotton v-neck wrap tank? Check. Cotton scoop neck tee? Check. If it’s cotton, fits well and flatters your neckline - buy it. These tops go with nearly everything in your wardrobe and generally don’t cost a ton, can be worn through all seasons and can take alot of wash and wear. This cowl neck comes in a variety of hues and is from Target ($14.99).
5. The basic white button up. Everyone from Nina Garcia to Tim Gunn to Clinton and Stacy recommend the basic white button up. Why? It’s not my favorite item, but honestly, it’s looks great with suits and cardigans and sweaters. When you need layers, this looks structured and polished. Plus, it’s not ever going out of style. This is definitely an investment piece so try on lots of them and get it tailored, if necessary. Pictured is from J. Crew ($72).
6. 3/4th sleeve top. If you live in a place with lots of weird weather seasons (ME!) this top is a life saver. That awkward post-winter, pre-spring season and post-fall, pre-winter season are no match for a 3/4th sleeve top. I like this trendy top from J. Crew Factory for casual Friday with white jeans ($24.50).
7. A silk blouse. Every grown-up woman should have a nice, genuine silk blouse. I don’t care what color, shape, brand - just find the perfect top in your favorite color and pattern and go buy it. This is sort of my version of the basic white button up. You’ll wear this for the rest of your life and you’ll be glad you didn’t skimp and go for Polyester. This Diane Von Furstenberg number is making me happy today ($122.50).
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15th August 2012
Geeky at Work: Back to Basics on Tops
I’m doing the basics! Here’s a reminder of how we got here. A very lovely reader named Amanda emailed me a couple weeks ago and said:
“I am starting a job where I need to dress in business casual for most of the week (I am entering a Ph.D program and will be working as a TA). The problem is that I do not have a lot of the staples for a diverse business casual wardrobe and—as a graduate student—I do not have a lot of money to spend. I have the “geeky” part down, but the “at work” part could use a little work. What are some business casual wardrobe staples that go well with a touch of geekiness?”
So this week, I’m doing tops. Or at least the tops that go on top of tops.
Here’s your shopping list:
1. A simple, versatile and well-made black blazer. I like this one from Madewell ($98). Of everything on the list - this IS your investment piece. It will go with literally everything in your wardrobe. If need be, get it tailored. Make it perfect. Get it dry-cleaned. Take care of your well-made black blazer like it’s your child. I mean that.
2. A cotton jacket that can be dressed up or down. This is something that I like because you could easily pair it with a skirt and some blingy jewelry and be ready for a meeting or you could dress it down with jeans and wear it on casual Friday. This nice grey option is from Target ($27.99).
3. Color or pattern blazers are a trend right now, but I think they’ll last. Much like last week, this is your fun piece. Something to make you smile. It’s also something that you could dress UP or down. Pictured is from J.Crew ($78).
4. A couple good cardigans are a must have for the working girl. In the winter, they go with everything. In the summer, they protect you from over-air-conditioned offices. Ahem, mine. I think it’s great to experiment with more color with a cardigan. Hence, this neon pink choice from J. Crew ($39).
5. It’s probably because I live in the Midwest, but I believe a good pull-over sweater is a must have. This neutral taupe one from Gap ($39) works with dress pants and jeans. Throw a button up underneath and you’re preppy chic. Again, I love items that work with LOTS of pieces.
6. This one is an outlier, but I’m going there. I think every girl should have a super long cardigan too. It’s highly trendy, but highly warm. Plus, these super long cardis work really well with sheath dresses - which can always be hard to pair. This one from QuikSilver ($48) is SUPER trendy, but I like the color combination and I think it would look great with a bright pink pencil skirt. If you don’t like the pattern, this basic long cardigan from Old Navy would also flatter many shapes.
