Move the needle [v.] To make a change that can be detected. It is often the smallest changes that can turn the most  impactful results. Discover how a few bright basics, studded with a some subtle yet vibrant accents, can brighten your work week and revive your professional wardrobe.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN AUSTIN // HAIR STYLING BY JENNY WILLIAMS // MAKEUP BY ALICIA HARRIS // MODELS BY BMG MODELS: ELIZABETH SALYER, JAMAEL MEDLOCK, AND JEREMY WUBKER

We are constantly challenged with the age-old question of how to look stylish, modern, and in season for work, while feeling confident in as little time as possible. How dressy is too dressy? How casual is too casual? Can I achieve this standout look in minutes and be able to carry it into my off-the-clock life duties?

We’re in the fast-paced age of convenience, and our everyday life demands quick versatility. We want more time, with little compromise of the end result. Let’s face it, the rules and roles of the fashion game have changed because of this, with the exception of the iconic pieces and classic silhouettes that have walked the hallways in the business world for decades.

We’re in the fast-paced age of convenience, and our everyday life demands quick versatility. We want more time, with little compromise of the end result.

Most of us aren’t required to be in a three-piece suit for work; we can thank the casual corporate culture of the modern startups of the new millennium for that. So, dressing for work can be as easy and fun as getting ready for a Saturday dinner or happy hour with the guys. Start there as the foundation of your look; this sprinkle of casual shouldn’t dominate, but rather just add a hint of flavor.

Next, build upon this with your ageless wardrobe staples, like a blazer, tailored trousers, bow tie, or a timeless black pump. Don’t be afraid to play with print and color to add a dash of trendiness. Color is a good way to keep your dressiest of pieces a little more casual and playful, but tends to be a more difficult feat to master.

For this casual “work to play” look, think in layers, and keep the beauty and grooming factors easy to transition as well. This season, which is that tricky in between of spring and summer, we are seeing a lot of bright-colored solids paired with solid, earthy neutrals like white and nude, with patterns kept at a minimum. This modern minimalist approach to color and silhouettes is the perfect balance for your casual business workplace and makes it much easier to attack in your closet. As usual, proper fit is key, especially for work, and should always be the deciding factor.

What you wear to work shouldn’t be boring. Instead, it should be a place to show the “Friday night fun” you in a more polished and professional way. Once you conquer the art of modern business casual wear, you’ll thank yourself with all the heads you’ll turn and the time you’ll save.