Say goodbye to drab colors and boring pant suits. The office dress code is changing and the new rules allow for more personality and flare. Many companies are taking a more relaxed, fashion-friendly view on nine to five wear. Today, ladies can climb the corporate ladder and shatter the glass ceiling while looking fabulous.
Strut your style
In the past, putting together a career-ready outfit meant blending in with both male and female counterparts. Now it’s time to let your personality shine. As long as you stay within the bounds of the official dress code and leave the mini skirts and crop tops at home, it’s actually a good idea to stand out from the crowd. Showcasing your individual style puts your confidence and poise front and center. So whether you are a fan of statement necklaces, oversized earrings, brightly hued heels or bold prints, you can fit it into your work wardrobe.
Denim is on the rise
Your favorite pants are not just for Fridays any more! Whether it’s a manic Monday or a hump day, denim works all week long in many offices. Distressed jeans and low-slung waists are still out, but dark denim in straight or trouser styles can replace your stand-by black slacks. To keep jeans from veering too casual, top them with a silk top and blazer. Add stylish accessories like a crystal bib necklace and a pair of drop earrings to compete the look.
Signature accessories make a statement
Demure jewelry was a must-have for workday dressing. While simple chain necklaces and understated stud earrings will always have their place, every stylish career woman should have a handful of statement pieces at her disposal. A long necklace over a solid silk top or a colorful bib necklace tucked under a button-up blouse can turn a basic outfit into a pulled together look. Choose statement accessories that express your personality and showcase your style without distracting from your overall look.
Mix casual and professional pieces
With the lines between career wear and weekend-ready pieces blurred, it’s time to mix and match. Your favorite graphic tee can make its office debut under a tailored jacket paired with a pencil skirt. Sassy canvas shoes can get a promotion and pair with slim slacks. Trendy stacked rings add a pop of pizzazz to a basic skirt suit. But, don’t let your look get overly casual. Choose one weekend-worthy pieces and keep the rest of your outfit polished and professional.
Quality counts
With office dress codes taking a turn toward more fashionable and casual looks, quality counts more than ever. While mixing in affordable styles with investment pieces works well, the overall look should be polished and upscale. Give flimsy fabrics a pass and opt for luxurious fabrics that will hold their shape through long hours at the office. For jewelry, look for superior craftsmanship, high-quality metals and real crystals or gems. Often, when dressing for the office, less is more. So, choose to spend on a handful of flexible, signature pieces rather than amassing cheaper, but lower quality pieces.