Agent Fashion ... in the Suburbs

Emily English
Century 21 The Edge
Midland, Texas

How would you describe your sense of style for work?

Preppy but classic. I believe less is more. My inspiration is Jillian Harris from HGTV’s “Love It or List It.” She can take whatever — even if it’s just a pair of jeans — and dress it up in so many ways with accessories. She never looks overdone either.

How does your style fit your niche?

We dress comfortably in western Texas, and I’ve found a pair of jeans can work well when mixed with a pair of pink heels and a colored blouse. We don’t really wear pantsuits and dresses; it’s too windy here, and it’ll blow all over the place. Also, I never know where my day is going to take me, whether it’s walking through a seven-acre property or a higher-end luxury home. I have to be able to adapt my style on the go. I keep different pairs of shoes in my car so I can wear tennis shoes, boots, or high heels when needed.

Does your wardrobe vary depending on the situation?

For listing presentations or open houses, I always dress up more because I’m representing my client. I might wear a pencil skirt, Christian Louboutin pumps, and a statement necklace. But still, less is more, and I think it’s important not to overdo it. Other than those situations, I usually wear solid-color jeans and a cute pair of low-heeled shoes in beige or a leopard color. I often will wear a polo in black and white with our company logo along with jeans, sometimes coral-colored. In the winter, I’ll wear a cardigan, too, since the temperature can vary quite a bit. Usually, for my everyday clients, they want someone comfortable and casual and not overly dressed-up. I’ve also found that a necklace or earrings can go a long way in making an outfit pop.

 

What’s an outfit you would wear when meeting a client for the first time?

I would wear a nice button-up flowy blouse from Ann Taylor Loft or J.Crew, a Hermes belt, dark denim jeans, and a kitten heel.

What is one of your favorite accessories?

Low-heel shoes. I think they can really dress up an outfit, and they’re comfortable. I have all different colors: leopard, hot pink, beige, and black.

What is one workplace fashion mistake you will never make?

I wouldn’t wear anything too tight or too low-cut, or jeans with holes in them. It needs to be professional and appropriate.

Where are some of your favorite places to shop?

J.Crew, Ann Taylor Loft, Banana Republic, and Nordstrom. I love the clothes at these stores because they are professional but comfortable and easily adaptable.

Explore the Fashions of Different Niches

Sue “Pinky” Benson: The Pink Lady of Real Estate	Emily English: The Suburban Agent	Gregory Burrus Green: The Beach Town Agent
Deb Kemp: The Urban Agent	Cody Lujan: The Rural Agent	Todd Newton: The Luxury Agent