The Style Guru: Dress Smart

I know it’s the holidays and work-wear is the furthest thing from your mind but it won’t hurt to know what to wear for that big internship next term. You should be proud you’ve gotten a call back and you want to make a good impression on your first day.

In another week or so, it will be Christmas sale time and you may as well invest in a couple of smart pieces to look less like a college student and more like you’re ready to take on the world.

Most of the time, you won’t be told what to wear exactly.  That doesn’t mean you won’t be pulled aside if you’re wearing something inappropriate.  In general, the more distracting a piece of clothing or jewelry is, the less appropriate it is for office wear.  One of the best signs to a company dress code is what your boss wearing.  What’s the area manager wearing?  Observe the fashion directors ensemble or  check out the most confident colleague’s outfit.  Just think about the styles that the highest-level woman in your organization wears and use them in your wardrobe.

If you’re lucky enough to be working in a fashionable office then you can take a risk or two by wearing smart colored trousers or fitted dresses.  Just stick to neutral or pastel colours until you figure out what’s acceptable in the office.  A pair of navy chinos could be teamed with a cream blouse and a dusty pink blazer.  There’s also the option of wearing relaxed tailoring.  Petite and curvy girls suit blazers that are loose and longer than usual.  If you’re job keeps you on a tight fashion leash then don’t worry, you can sill express yourself subtlety.  A black or navy pencil dress can be livened up with a pop of colour.  Try red heels or shoes with cute trimming detail like a bow for example.  If you’re going to add colour in a cardigan or blouse opt for shoes in the same colour as the suit.

Choose a structured handbag or even a laptop bag in a colour that expresses your individuality or even one that matches your shoes or camisole.  Small details like this will get attention without being distracting.  Jewelry that jangles is distracting. Choose feminine jewelry like stud earrings or single bracelets.

Work Wear No-No’s

Completely see through lace or sheer blouses without a camisole underneath, miniskirts, spaghetti straps and strappy stiletto sandals are too sexy.

Baggy jeans, denim shorts or sneakers are too casual for work.