I, like every other New Yorker, struggle with wearing too many hats and committing to too many things. As a fashion creator and full-time biology PhD candidate working in the lab, the number one question I get asked is, “How do you balance both?” I totally agree: It does seem absurd when you examine how different the two worlds are—the rigidity and structure of academia and the hectic, often disorienting excitement of the fashion industry. But I tackle transitioning between the two as I do with anything in my life: with a methodical plan and lots of trial and error.
Throughout the years of rushing to fashion events after working in the lab all day, I’ve learned many valuable lessons on day-to-night dressing. I know to tailor my work outfits to my evening plans, as the fashion world is much more critical than the scientific one when it comes to appearance (shocker, I know.) Luckily, the molecular work my lab focuses on doesn’t require strict PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), which makes my task of styling something practical but event-ready much easier. (Despite what the TikTok comments may suggest, I’m not in imminent danger by occasionally wearing a skirt in the lab.)
One of my most reliable and foolproof day-to-night outfit recipes is a midi skirt with a cute top and leather knee-high boots. You can’t go wrong here, but when in doubt, let the boots do the talking. There’s something about a pair of good boots that genuinely makes me feel like an extra in a music video when I walk down the New York streets. My favorite pair right now is these from Vagabond, which have a tiny heel that’s easy to strut in.
Additionally, one of the best parts about tall boots is that they double as an extra layer during the colder months. I'll still wear tights and knee-high socks to keep warm (which are especially helpful when I bike to work), but knee-high boots are my secret to wearing my extensive summer skirt collection during the winter.
Another wise piece of advice for a day-to-night outfit: just throw on a dress. Take the stress out of it, and slip into a dress that's easy and, more importantly, comfortable. In my opinion, the secret sauce to a standout outfit is the accessories anyway.
My go-tos are any dress from my Sandy Liang collection, thrown together with my trusty Repetto ballerina flats and a big coat. I also adore a minimal, chic maxi dress, like this one from Paloma Wool, styled with a statement belt. From experience, longer hemlines trick people into thinking you’re fancier than you actually are.
My last tip for transitioning from my 9-5 to my 5-9 is to abide by a 'half business, half party' approach. To take things literally, I often juxtapose some tailored trousers with a slinky top, or a structured evening jacket with something silky and ruffly layered underneath. I also love taking a pair of casual, slouchy jeans to the next level with a belt and a statement top. This combo gives an air of professionalism, while also being fun enough to stop by after-work cocktails parties.
For me, there is no such thing as being overdressed at the workplace, and there is no shame in not being in the craziest look at every fashion show or event. It comes down to the fact that my style is rooted in pragmatism, just as so many other parts of my personality are. I want my outfit to embody the modern woman, ambitious and determined, with plans she’s already fashionably late to.
