These days, dressing for work is more about comfort, practicality and style than it is about formality. In fact, according to a recent study, only one in 10 employees wear a suit to work, and seven in 10 employees say they feel more comfortable when dressing casually for work.
But even though we no longer have to suffer through stiff polyester blazers and wool skirts doesn’t mean there shouldn’t be an emphasis on looking good. What you wear to work still matters a whole lot, influencing the way people view you and even help boost your self-confidence and ability to concentrate.
If you feel like your workday wardrobe needs a bit of a fashion overhaul, we’ve got you covered. You don’t need to sink thousands of dollars into new clothes, either, as long as you follow these tips.
1. Own Two Pairs of Pumps — Ladies, nothing gives an ensemble an air of power, confidence and style like a pair of pumps. But you need (at least) two pairs to be ready for anything. You’ll need a pair of comfy, go-with-anything heels for those office environments or meetings that require you to dress in skirts, dresses and suits. On days when you want to feel fabulous but the stakes aren’t as high, rock a pair of statement pumps that help honor your personality.
2. Own at Least One Pair of Squeaky-Clean Sneakers — High heels are great and all, but let’s be honest, most of us are rocking flats on a day-to-day basis. And, these days, it’s all about the crisp white sneaker, whether at the office, on vacation or hanging out at brunch on a Sunday morning. Always have a few pairs of comfortable, slip-on sneakers in your arsenal to go with those business-casual outfits, but make sure to keep them as clean as possible at all times!
3. Wear Pencil Skirts — Pencil skirts are the universal workwear wonder-workers that give an air of polish to literally any outfit. Whether you sport it with a perfectly pressed, tucked-in blazer or a trendy blouse, the pencil skirt brings out the big style and personality to your professional aesthetic. Make sure to grab some slimming shapewear to wear beneath for a flawless look beneath your pencil skirts!
4. Invest in Some Funky Belts — The slim leather belt is truly one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe, especially when dressing for work. These accessories give your outfit an air of polish and professionalism and can be used to add a neater, more tailored look to dresses that aren’t necessarily workday-driven. We love the idea of finishing off an otherwise-boring workday look with a funky belt—think leopard print, tooled leather, maybe some colorful stitching—if you want to infuse some big personality and style into your office ensembles.
5. Get Your Nails Done — The office is arguably the best place to show off a perfect mani, especially if you spend a lot of the day typing or working with your hands. And it’s one of those simple things you can do to make yourself feel more put-together and boost feelings of self-confidence. Whether you go to the salon or do them yourself, a set of pretty nails will go far in helping dial up your work style.
6. Wear the Right Shapewear — Many people have a misconception that shapewear is only for special occasions and dressy attire, when in reality, it’s great for everyday wear, too. In fact, a pair of slimming panties or a tummy compression body shaper can help you create the perfect foundation beneath your workday wear. There’s even butt-lifting shapewear that has thick padding to amplify the backside, and—added bonus!—they basically feature built-in cushions that go with you everywhere and makes you feel comfier when you’re sitting all day.
7. Wear Stylish Technical Apparel — OK, we’re not saying you should go to work dressed in gym clothes, but note that many sportswear brands now make technical lifestyle apparel, with many pieces apropos for casual workplaces. The benefit of rocking tech gear at work is that it helps you manage your temperature and mitigate sweat without getting in your way, which in turn helps you feel completely comfortable even if you’re facing a particularly stressful, sweat-inducing day.
8. Get Creative with Your Office Accessories — Being fashionable isn’t just about what you wear. It’s also about how you accessorize and decorate your workspace. Take the time to sprinkle in some fun, personal touches, such as a rhinestone stapler, a funny calendar or a set of pretty desk plants. Use your wall space to hang vibrant wall art that makes you feel happy and motivated!
9. Wear Some Bold Eyewear — What we love about this decade’s undeniable nerd glasses trend—which is here to stay, by the way—is that it has the unique ability to make you look capable, artsy, stylish and smart all at once. A good pair of hipster frames can dial up any workday ensemble, and it really takes no effort at all when you’re getting ready in the morning. Just toss ‘em on and go!
10. Rock a Stylish Tote — While you may not literally need to carry around briefs, you’ve still gotta put your laptop, lunch and lip gloss somewhere. Enter the workday tote. A durable, oversized leather tote bag is the modern working woman’s brief case equivalent, offering plenty of room for all the cargo you need for the entire day. Choose a style in a match-all color, like brown, navy or black, so it goes with all your 9 to 5 looks.
Wear What Makes You Comfortable
The ultimate goal of any wardrobe overhaul should be to find pieces that make you feel comfortable all day long, even when you’re facing drawn-out board meetings and high-stakes presentations. As long as you prioritize dressing in a way that combines comfort with style, you’ll be well on your way to a collection of looks that helps you feel like a boss every single day.
Yours Truly,
Vanessa
2 Comments
Great tips. Work wear is always tough for me because I feel boxed in. But I’m going to try some of these
Definitely try some of these and let me know!