Tilda Swinton looks powerful yet elegant in her perfectly tailored skirt suit.
Whether you're a corporate executive with years of experience or a recent graduate just getting your foot in the door, dressing professionally plays a key role in your success. But unlike the more uniform work attire of yesteryear, today's work wear allows room for subtle sartorial experimentation, which helps you stand out from your peers while maintaining a polished persona.
The Power Suit
Every professional woman should own at least one fabulous suit. Though the initial investment may seem steep, a well-made suit that is tailored to fit you perfectly will last for years to come. When shopping for a suit, look for a cut that will create a slim silhouette, like closer fitting trousers, skirts without pleats and streamlined jackets. Leave any embellishing to your accessories. Also, try to buy the highest quality fabric you can afford. Doing so will make your suit last and make your entire look seem more expensive, even when you break the suit up and mix the pieces with other garments. Dark, neutral tones are the easiest to mix and match, but if you work in a more creative field, consider making a bolder statement with a colorful print or bright hue (See Reference 1, Slides 1-10).
Outerwear
After you've put together a chic work ensemble, it would be a shame to cover it up with a less than stellar coat or jacket. While your ski parka may be nicest on the slope, it isn't appropriate for the office. During the coldest months, stay warm and stylish with a dark pea coat that's hip length or longer. For the rest of the year, don a classic trench. The tan color will go with everything you own and the timeless cut never goes out of style (See Reference 2, Slides 1 and 2).
Business Casual
For offices that are more laid-back in terms of their dress code, express your individuality and personal style by incorporating color and texture. A bright shell with a matching cardigan looks fun and interesting without compromising the conservativeness of the work place (See Reference 3, Slides 6 and 7). Work-related functions and office parties are the perfect chance to don a chic leather blazer or sequins (See Reference 4, Slide 36). If you're allowed to wear jeans to the office, stick with a dark wash style with wider legs that resemble your dressier trousers (See Reference 2, Slide 6).
Shoes and Accessories
Some women make it seem effortless to walk around the office in sky high heels, while others make it look painfully awkward. Choosing the right shoes for work is all about finding a heel height you can manage. It's OK if you can't walk in high heels, as there are plenty of kitten heels and flats on the market that look equally chic. What's not sophisticated is teetering on heels you're uncomfortable in. A black, pointed toe shoe will go with an array of office outfits, and can also be easily incorporated into your weekend and evening looks (See Reference 3, Slide 12). As far as bags are concerned, you don't have to carry a briefcase, but you should look for one that is large enough to hold your work items and simple enough to be worn with much of your closet. Structured bags with minimal embellishments are the most professional (See Reference 1, Slide 11).
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