Does getting ready for work in the morning have you wishing you wore a uniform? Are you in a work wear rut? Do you feel like your work attire has fallen flat? If you answered yes, keep reading!
We all get bored with the same old outfits we wear week in and week out, but it’s easy to update your work wardrobe with some of the more colorful or fun pieces you already may have hanging in your closet.
You will be surprised that you can still maintain a professional appearance with items you would wear to happy hour. Here are five easy ways to add some oomph to your your style with office-friendly statement pieces.
1. Add Some Color
This is so easy, especially if you wear mostly neutrals, black or white at the office. Choose a bold hued separate in a work-appropriate shape, such as a tailored skirt or cuffed trousers, and swap it into your usual ensemble. A colored trouser in a classic shape makes a safe statement in just about any office.
More conservative company culture? Stick to tailored blouses in neutral hues. Mix tones from the same color family or try a vibrant belt for a change. A bright shoe, belt or bag will do the trick, too.
2. Mix in Prints
The key to making patterns work at work is sticking to muted colors, such as black, gray, brown and beige. Classic motifs, including plaid, paisley, hounds-tooth, leopard and cheetah work best. Small scale cheetah spots won’t look too wild and plaid goes with any solid.
3. Incorporate Leather
Just because it’s warm outside does not mean leather should be reserved for fall and winter when most office buildings are kept at sub-zero temps. Leather is edgy and can be fun (and not just in a 50 Shades of Grey kind of way).
Make skins safe for the work place by choosing unexpectedly feminine shapes, darker tones and refined textures. Even a single piece of leather jewelry can inject edge. A leather pencil skirt can anchor a floaty silk top with ease. Or if you want a more ladylike look, choose a cinch waist.
4. Go for Sparkle
Sequins and shine aren’t just for evenings; you can make metallic pieces boardroom-ready by pairing them with subdued shades or layering under solid fabrics to downplay the bling factor.
5. Experiment with Lace
Lace is a classic and compliments conservative work attire very well. Limit yourself to one piece per look, and choose lined items or layer with a camisole or slip to avoid baring too much skin. Delicate lace trim on a blouse adds just a hint of romance.
You don’t have to overhaul your closet, just simply mix in a few pick-me-ups to create a playful yet polished look. Chances are you already have them in your closet!
Photo credits: Ron Sombilon Media, Art and Photography
