Fashion

How to elevate work wear

27th August, 2018

Good or bad, our office attire is often one of the major things that people use to judge us in the workplace. So it goes without saying that there’s no harm in looking the part with a sleek, polished wardrobe that screams professional.

When I used to work a nine-to-five job I was always looking for ways I could rework my looks without having to splurge on something new all the time, as working as a fashion editor, it was almost written into my job description that I had to look on trend. Even now with a more varied schedule that takes me from my desk to a function to a shoot on any given day, I still try to maintain a certain level of polish whilst still incorporating elements of what’s trending at the moment; and that requires having to think strategically about what’s worth investing in. That said, trust me when I say that you don’t have to spend a fortune on a complete revamp. It’s all about identifying the key pieces that will take your workwear next-level. Here are a few staples that I think can elevate any look whether you work in a corporate environment or a creative space…

Statement bag

It’s pretty much a given that you’ll always have a work bag with you so given how heavily it features in your office wardrobe it pays to go for something that’s chic and classic, with some detail that helps give it a little personality. I find a tote or a structured top handle bag is always a safe bet but you could also try a shoulder bag with a longer strap if you’re not one to carry a lot of things on a day to day basis. Look for extra details such as a gorgeous clasp or handle style, metal hardware or a textured finish. This is one thing I’d recommend looking to buy the best quality you can afford given how often you’re wearing it.

Quality blazer

You’re guaranteed to get so much use out of a blazer as you can pop it on over a dress, wear it with a shirt and a skirt or pair it with slim pants, so once again go for one that is a good quality. Black is always a good choice as it can pretty much work back with anything but if you want a touch of colour a beautiful navy is another sophisticated choice.

Statement shoe

It’s a good idea to have a pair of really amazing work shoes in your collection. I don’t think you can ever go wrong with a pair of black pointed pumps. However if you want something a little different you could always try a slingback style for a shoe that’s on trend and guaranteed to get plenty of use.

Understated accessories

I’m all for bold accessories but work is one place where it’s a good idea to dial it down a notch. I don’t think you can go wrong with a pair of simple studs or a delicate necklace. If you’re a watch person, a beautiful timepiece is an outfit addition that will feel right at home in the workplace .

Quality staples

I don’t think you need to spend an absolute fortune on your work wardrobe but I would look to invest in the workhorses of your office looks. Pieces like a pair of black pants, a white button down shirt, an A-line or pencil skirt and a wool or cashmere sweater are all things that would be on high rotation so therefore it stands to reason that you’d invest a little more in them to ensure their longevity.

What are some of your favourite ways to elevate your work wardrobe?

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