#GirlBoss – a term that gets an equal mix of both praise and negativity. But at the end of the day, the term #girlboss is so meaningful to me because it’s what I’m striving to be everyday – a hardworking and fearless woman who isn’t afraid to go after what she wants, who is able to take on whatever life throws at her, and who never gives up.

This is why I was so excited for Chriselle Lim’s launch of her first stand-alone collection because the clothing line is not just fit for the everyday woman who’s always on the go, it embodies all of the aspects of being a boss, making it the most functional yet perfect wardrobe for the modern day working girl!

Read on to see how I instantly elevate my work wardrobe with my favorite pieces from Chriselle’s new collection!

1. When in Doubt, Opt for All Black

As always, there’s nothing more classic than black and white, especially for work! To instantly elevate an outfit, don’t underestimate the power of a monochromatic look because it instantly helps to accentuate your body for a longer and leaner silhouette!

2. Pay Attention to Fabric Choice

Of course, luxe fabrics such as cashmere, silk, and chiffon also adds so much to an ensemble. For this particular look, I was especially drawn to the luster of this black tank, since it instantly elevates this outfit, making it appear so much more sophisticated.

3. Never Underestimate the Importance of Accessories

And of course, accessories always makes all the difference, don’t you agree? To add to the classy and timeless vibes of this outfit, I opted for a dainty rose gold necklace a single silver ring, and a timeless black and gold watch, giving off a clean cut, elegant, yet strong look that’s worthy of every #GirlBoss, don’t you think?

Aside from inspiring me to seamlessly integrate these classy and timeless pieces into my wardrobe, Chriselle’s collection also gave me a better understanding of my career aspirations and encouraged me to have courage, to no longer be afraid of doing the things that I love and to be the #GirlBoss of my own life! And here is what being a #GirlBoss means to me!

1. Never Underestimate the Ability to Hustle and Work Harder than Others

As many of you know, blogging isn’t my full-time job; in fact, I’m actually working full time as a senior digital marketing specialist at an online retail corporation. Due to the quick-paced nature of the online retail business and digital marketing industry, it’s not uncommon for me to work ten hour days on a daily basis, sometimes working twelve to thirteen hours daily during our busy peak season.

Because of this, blogging is something that I can only work on after work and on the weekends. Despite always being short on time, I’m always trying to find any spare moment to work on writing blog posts, answering comments, commenting on other blogs, as well as keeping with Instagram engagement.

Needless to say, it’s definitely a lot of work, but I understand how important it is to work hard for the things that you want because nothing worth having is ever easy.

2. You’re Stronger than You Ever Imagined

Of course, working hard long hours both at the office and at home means that I’ve had to endure a lot not only physically, but also mentally. There aren’t many moments when I’m not alert, and while there are definitely days when I feel physically exhausted and mentally drained, I know all of it is worth it at the end if I can do the things I love. I understand that it’s important to stay strong, even in the face of challenges because that’s what gets me through the hard times.

3. Exercise Patience, Compassion, and Empathy Everyday

Other than working hard though, I’ve also learned the importance of working smart and working well, particularly with others. Through both of my ventures in the corporate and creative field, I’ve learned that it actually takes a combination of both hard skills and soft skills in order to be successful. Other than being able to do the work, there are a lot of unspoken skills and qualities that will set you apart from others, and those are none other than patience, compassion, and empathy because they’re the skills that will allow you to work well with those around you.

4. I Will Put Myself and My Wants First

As most of you know, blogging isn’t my full-time job. In fact, I started this blog as a creative outlet at a time in my life when I was completely lost and didn’t know what I wanted to do in regards to my career. At that time, I’d recently graduated with a business degree and had gotten hired right away to work in the accounting and finance department of a big corporation. Despite these “accomplishments” that made everyone around me happy, particularly my family, I myself was miserable because I wasn’t sure if that’s what I wanted for the rest of my life, by simply just having a job that is a means to an end, but would never actually be a meaningful career. After struggling through a downward spiral for almost a year, I ultimately decided that I needed to take some time off to figure some things out.

This was when I turned to blogging; I’ve always been creative and enjoyed writing, but it was more of a hobby. My love for writing short stories inspired me to minor in English and creative writing, but it wasn’t something that my family would have accepted as a career choice, which was why I opted for something more “traditional” like business as my major instead. During the months after I quit my first job, writing was what made me feel so connected to my feelings and helped me sort out some things. And after a bit of contemplation, I decided that I wanted to start a blog to nurture my love for writing and my other passion – fashion.

Through blogging, I was able to be a part of a community with other likeminded individuals, and it was through the encouragement and inspiration that I received from blogging that helped me find my way. Although blogging isn’t my full-time career right now since I still need to earn a living through my corporate job, I’ve never given up on it because it’s ultimately what I want to pursue as a career in the long-run. I know it’ll definitely be a lot of hard work, but it’s something that I’m willing to work for, and I won’t give up on my pursuits, no matter how hard I have to work or how long it takes.

Through my journey, I’ve learned the importance of doing things for me and to not let others’ opinions sway my decisions. While it’s definitely scary to defy others’ expectations, it’s important to remember that you only have one life, so you have to live it for yourself; otherwise, you’ll be miserable for the rest of your life. Your happiness matters and what you want matters. Never forget that.

On Me

Chriselle Lim Veronica V-Neck Tank in Black

H&M Wide-Legged High-Waisted Pants in Black

Mules in White/Gold (From Taiwan)

• Similar styles here, here, and here

Michael Kors Charley Watch in Black/Rose Gold

• Similar styles here and here

AUrate Mini Gold Letter Charm Pendant 14K in Rose

Anya Hindmarch Smiley Cross Body Bag

What makes you a #GirlBoss? And what’re some of your favorite ways to elevate your work wardrobe? Let me know in the comments because I always love hearing all of you!

Stay in touch!
Instagram || Bloglovin’ || Facebook || Twitter