Who: Jill Spaeth, 32
President and Director of Design, Citizen Creative
What I do: “I’m a design consultant specializing in experience design–primarily large-scale environmental graphics and signage. Each day is so different for me. My days vary from being at my desk developing a new concept to pitching a client at their office to visiting a site in a hard hat! I love the variety, and it fuels my creative process.”
My work style: “It’s classic with a ‘pop’ of something unexpected, which reflects my personality and my laugh—which if you know me is LOUD. I love bright and fun shoes—you’ll rarely see me in a plain black shoe. My look usually incorporates a mix of different brands too, because I want to make each look my own. I’m a designer after all! I’ve built a wardrobe around a variety of ‘staple’ pieces that easily mix and match.”
Pitching to a New Client
“When meeting with a new client, I dress professionally and buttoned-up. I prefer to wear a crisp white or black shirt with one statement piece–in this case, my favorite Ted Baker pencil skirt. I want to give my prospective client a professional but bold impression that matches the work I create.”
Hugo Boss shirt, Ted Baker skirt, Sarah Jessica Parker shoes, Stella & Dot Citron drops earrings and Rebel ring.
Networking Event
“I like to dress comfortably for networking events so I’m not distracted by what I’m wearing and can focus on conversations. I usually wear pants and pumps with a thicker heel so they’re comfortable to stand in for a few hours.”
Milly blouse, Rebecca Taylor slacks, Sarah Jessica Parker shoes, gold bracelet handed down from her grandmother, Stella & Dot Black Rory necklace and Arrison gold bracelet.
Speaking Engagement
“When I’m giving a talk I like to dress in darker clothing so that my brightly-colored slides with mind-blowing content hit home with my audience. This is my favorite look because it’s a true reflection of me—dark colors, a chunky boot and a unique leather-sleeved jacket. I always get compliments when I wear this to a speaking engagement.”
Helmut Lang jacket and pants, Theory shirt, Kate Spade boots, Stella & Dot Green Janie Studs, Gold Pegasus Necklace, Chevron gold ring, Pyramid cuff, and Eden bangle.
The Details
Think you know someone who deserves the What I Wear to Work spotlight? E-mail ccunningham@washingtonian.com with photos and a job description for consideration.
Caroline Cunningham joined Washingtonian in 2014 after moving to the DC area from Cincinnati, where she interned and freelanced for Cincinnati Magazine and worked in content marketing. She currently resides in College Park.
