“Fashion is a language that creates itself in clothes to interpret reality.” Karl Lagerfeld
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Guys who said that we can’t embrace fashion trends in the office? Have you ever seen any clause in the HR Handbook prohibiting us from being fashionistas? My style has always been and most probably will always be quite elegant and polished albeit this doesn’t mean all doom and gloom and boring grey suits all year long.
There are some things that will never be OK in the workplace like tube tops or super-short minis. But new ideas on what’s acceptable and appropriate for 9 to 5 have taken a turn, giving the thumbs up to things that might not have worked for our Mom’s generation.
Clearly qualities like a dogged work ethic and professionalism will get you far, but what you wear also makes a major impact on your success.
You can stop wondering what to wear to work to look as stylish as you do outside the office. Whether your job is ultra-corporate or incredibly creative, my tips hopefully will make dressing for the office an easier job—and might help you land that corner office you deserve.
Individuality Is a Big Yes
Gone are the days when blending in was paramount. Nowadays more and more bosses like to see some personality. Companies are embracing individuality.
Guys I have worked for a few companies and regardless of the culture I have always stayed truthful to my own style. Many may say that my style is very corporate to start with looking at my pencil dresses, skirts and smart blazers. However my wardrobe is also full of bright colours that believe me take some courage to wear to the office, but as long as the overall style remains corporate I’m happy. I have worn bright orange and yellow pencil dresses. It’s all about mixing and matching. Throw a statement necklace to brighten up your pencil black dress or tone down your fabulous bright pink pencil dress with a pair of black heels and a matching bag and voila.
There’s No Need to Dress Like a Man
Oh yes we are talking about the fabulous ’80s that ushered in the ill-fitted power suits. Not all of us may remember this per say however, but I’m sure we are aware of trends evolving over the decades and the 80’s was fashionable for the boxy shapes men wear. How about unforgettable padded shoulders, hands up who has never seen ‘Dynasty’? What scares me the most is that this trend is coming back and I truly believe this is one of those that should remain firmly in the 80’s!
Let’s just swiftly move on and re-focus on utterly feminine pieces in the office, whether it’s a voluminous midi skirt, a prim, belted dress, or the formerly dreaded suit, now cut to flatter the female figure.
Know Your Audience
It’s important that the section of your closet devoted to work-ready clothes has some variety to deal with a job’s many facets. If you’re meeting with a boss that’s on the conservative side, put that wonderful red asymmetric so Fall 2017 suit aside and opt for something less eye-catchy but still stylish, how about a nice chocolate brown tweed suit. If you’re seeing a client that’s fashion-forward, leave the jacket at home and add a statement accessory.
Everyone draws their lines differently. If your company has a dress code, follow it, but as I mentioned above this does not mean suicide of current fashion trends.
Confidence Is More Important Than Ever
Guys very often the first thing that is noticed whether in the office or more generally in life situations is confidence. It’s good to remember that there is a thin line between being confident and arrogant and the latter one is hardly ever appreciated (unless you work in banking haha).
The idea of feeling comfortable in your own skin is major new rule. If you feel uncomfortable in a pencil skirt, don’t wear it. Love tailored trousers? That’s the silhouette for you!
Everyone Should Have a Statement Accessory
Jewelry doesn’t always have to be super simple, like basic studs and a plain gold chain. It shouldn’t distract from you but highlight who you are as a person. Remember not to over accessorize, accessories are meant to complement your outfit, not overpower it. One more thing Guys, your jewellery shouldn’t make noise. It’s really distracting when someone’s dangly bangles make noises when they move their arms every single time.
Fabric Matters More Than Before
Twenty years ago, a skirt suit could have been done in any old poly-blend, but with branching out to new and interesting shapes comes more of a focus on material. So many beautiful trends are hitting the fashion scene this Fall/Winter 2017. Think, velvet, lace, tweed and satin.
So many fabulous office looks! Fortunately there are so many options now when it comes to office fashion and we can still look stylish at work! ๐ xo
Magda
http://www.gloryofthesnow.com
Impeccable and on point styling you have done for office looks! And I totally agree with not dressing up as a man when dressing up professionally.
xx
http://realgirltalks.com/
Thank you Hun, love your post about watches. Xx
Wow love all of your office outfits!! You look so stylish yet chic, I guess everyone in the office is always in awe when you enter the office in the morning โฅ
xxx
Tina
https://styleappetite.com
Statement accessories are a great idea. Also loving the colour palette of your outfit here, perfect for winter!
I love all of these outfits, they are so classy and chic
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
thank you Laura! xo
What beautiful pictures. Have a great week.
thank you Lisa xx
I love this!! Where is your pearl-bell-sleeved black coat from?! Obsessed!
xxoo
Mary
http://www.BelleOnTrend.com
Hi Mary, thank you lovely! It’s from Zara. They have the same jacket in black too. xx
Absolutely stunning! What beautiful pictures. I like your look, so cute!!!
XO
http://www.tuestilo.eu/blog/19_bolsos-que-toda-mujer-deberia-tener.html
thank you beautiful! I love your Michael Kors post, fabulous selection of bags. xx
Gorgeous post. Those statements are sooo true. Love your style. Thanks for sharing. xoxo Cris
https://photosbycris.blogspot.com.au/2017/11/the-jewel-of-gold-coast.html
thank you Cris and OMG that Jewel of Gold Coast is absolutely stunning! xx
Beautiful!
Federica
http://www.federicadinardo.com
thank youuu! I love your post about Maldives, this is such a beautiful island and it’s on my bucket list! xx
I love how all these looks are so fashionable and professional at the same time! I especially love the statement necklace with the red pants on you!
XOXO
Annie
thank you Annie! I can’t get enough of that necklace myself! it’s such a great and vibrant statement. I just read your post about Halloween cookies! great idea! xx
Wear trends at the office it’s possible and you explain that so well! Kisses
http://www.atrendylifestyle.com/2017/11/nuestro-hotel-en-singapur-vacaciones.html
ah thank you darling! so sweet of you. I really enjoyed your post about the Nuestro hotel. Beautiful photography.
https://www.elegantduchess.com/2017/11/14/vintage-fashion-youll-never-get-tired-of/
Hi there,
I am so in love with all those looks, Totally my style to the point where I cannot choose a favorite! All looks are so elegant and work-appropriate indeed!
Very glad I discovered your blog.
Happy Thursday,
Marieta
http://www.ootdinstyle.wordpress.com
thank you Marieta! Glad you enjoyed my office ideas. I hope to see you back ๐ xx
Gorgeous!! Loving your office looks hun! My fave is the power red outfit!
XO, Jessi
https://www.mywhitet.com/satin-duster-3-maternity-staples-35weeks/
All your office outfits are incredibly classy and stylish ! You do know how to dress up well! Keep your tips coming !
Piฤkne wszystkie stroje.
I love your tips!! I always struggle with what to wear to the office and this guide is great. Love all your outfits !!
thanks Amy! I’m glad it helps xx
Beautiful post as always! Love it! ๐โฅ๏ธ๐
๐๐LA BIJOUX BELLA ๐๐| by mia | A Creative Lifestyle Blog
thank you lovely. I love seeing you back xx
I like the layout of your posts … but much more the outfits you wear ๐ Your nickname is so well chosen ๐
https://4highheelsfans.wordpress.com/2017/11/05/ladies-in-red/
thank you hun!!! you are such a darling xx