How to look fashionable in the workplace

If you’re a dedicated fashionista, the thought of entering a corporate environment with a mandated office wardrobe probably fills you with dread. Or putting away your leopard print or committing to a life of button up shirts and trousers is more than you can bear. 

But, looking professional in the workplace is important. When getting dressed for work, your goal should be to project a professional and competent image with the way you put yourself together. However, professional and polished doesn't have to mean boring and conservative. So, how can you dress for the workplace without stifling your personal style? Here are 6 tips to help you dress fabulously fashionable at work.

Build a collection of basics

The key to building a fashionable yet professional wardrobe is to stock up on timeless basics. Neutral shirts, pencil skirts, trousers, and blazers are essential to working in a professional environment. But make sure they fit well. Fit is everything when it comes to tailored, sophisticated work clothes. Trousers should be tailored and free of visible knicker lines. Skirts, especially straight styles like pencil skirts, should be loose enough to sit down in comfortably. Jackets should be able to be buttoned easily and shirts shouldn't gape between buttonholes. Once you have your basics in place, you can incorporate some fashionable elements into your work wardrobe. 

Incorporate small doses of hip pieces

There’s no reason not to wear the latest trends to work, in moderation. Use your collection of basics as the foundation for implementing seasonal trends For Winter 2018, zebra and leopard are back in a big way, as seen on the catwalks of Victoria Beckham, Calvin Klein, Givenchy, Balenciaga and Tom Ford. So a simple leopard print scarf or pair of heels can go a long way to adding a stylish twist to your corporate outfit. Tweed is also back for this season. So there’s a great opportunity to bring a fashionable twist to your office wear. A tweed blazer can bring a touch of class to a plain skirt or pair of trousers.  

Let your shoes do the talking 

Every fashionista loves their shoes. And a standout shoe is an easy way to add a fashionable touch without going over the top in a conservative environment. A pair of coloured, textured or printed shoes can make your collection of basics stand out. (Plus, the sparkle or colour won’t distract during a meeting because your feet are under a table!) 

Utilise hair and makeup

Don’t forget, your hair and makeup. It’s another easy way to add a stylish touch to your work look. But you need to exercise caution; when it comes to trendy makeup and hair, stick on the conservative side. A swipe of electric blue liner or a cute half bun can give a black blazer that extra dose of style. But arriving at the office with a freshly dyed unicorn head of hair will overstep the mark.  One simple way to inject some fashionable flair into your work outfits is with eyeshadow and lipstick. Matching them to your shoes is an easy fashion win. This winter, it’s all about the natural look. So, choose a lippy that enhances your natural lip colour. Team them with a pair of nude shoes and you’re on to a winner.

Career Killers

Unlike a fashion faux pas, a career killer outfit can do your professional image permanent damage. In the workplace you should avoid sheer and see-through looks like lace and thin silk, as well as ultra-short miniskirts, camisoles without a jacket or sweater, and denim with rips and holes. Depending on your office, jeans may be too casual too as may t-shirts, hats, and trainers. Remember that the details matter, especially when you're dealing with clients or superiors in the office. Wrinkles, baggy fits and stains, as well as unkept nails, messy, dirty hair and over-the-top makeup will be noticed and frowned upon.

Check your schedule

The key to finding your personal work wear style will take some experimenting. But before you try something new, always check your schedule. If you have an important meeting with a new client, it’s best to stick with an outfit you know is flawless, rather than taking a fashion risk.

Let your personality shine

There’s no reason to let a conservative office environment kill your vibe. Let your personality shine by strategically choosing a stylish collection of basics and adding small doses of your favourite trends to your outfit. When you feel confident and are your best dressed self, the chances are you won’t just look good, but you’ll perform better at work too. If you’re stumped, we can help. With hundreds of stylish yet affordable outfits available for every size and body type, plus suggested outfits for each day of the week, you’re bound to find some inspiration here at www.spittinbear.com.