In most offices, it’s really important that you look professional at all times. This leads to a lot of people playing it safe in the fashion stakes, sticking to blacks, browns and blues and very little in the pattern or shape department at all.
It really doesn’t have to be like that anymore. Welcome to the era of the Suit 2.0. It is possible to have fun with fashion in the office and maintain a professional style. So, if you’re looking to get a bit more creative with your workwear, check out these simple ideas to boost your professional style:
Layer Up
Wearing more layers is a great way to incorporate colours and patterns into your outfit without having to go all out. For example wearing a classic pinstripe suit, but having a pair of colour blocked socks peeking out, seeing a little bit of a geometric printed t-shirt under a shirt with the top button undone, or having the hint of a green belt just visible under your jacket are all good ways of having a bit more fun with your office fashion.
Go for a Unique Fabric
You remember that iconic 90s TV show “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”, right? You remember that when Will was sent to the private school, he had to wear a less than inspiring uniform. What did he do? He noticed that the lining of his blazer was made from a much more interesting fabric – it was red and floral – so he turned it inside out, thus not breaking any rules, and improving his style immensely! As an adult, you don’t have to do that; you simply have to look for corporate wear online that is made from more interesting fabrics. As long as it’s smart and it adheres to the main rules of your workplace. Why shouldn’t you be able to wear an outfit that’s red, tartan, floral or whatever else it is that you love?
Mix it Up
Is there any rule that says your bottom half has to match the top? No, unless you have a REALLY strict office dress code, there probably is not. So, an easy way to have fun with workplace fashion is by mixing and matching tops and bottoms, Wear that red blazer with those pinstripe trousers or those checked pants with that polka dot shirt, and as long as you look presentable, you’ll probably get away with it.
Add a Statement Piece
If you really do have to wear a pretty boring combination of clothing from 9-5, check the rules to see if you’re allowed to wear jewellery and other accessories, if you are, then adding a chunky statement watch, a very noticeable necklace or even an unusually patterned tie will help you to show a bit more of your creativity in the way you dress.
If you wear glasses, well you have an even better opportunity to have some fun because there are few employers who will tell you to take off the glasses you need and now that you can get glasses in every colour and style conceivable, it isn’t hard to bring the style in that department.
Photo from Officine Generale Autumn/Winter 2018