Now that spring has finally sprung, it’s time for a little work wardrobe refresh, don’t you think? And even though not all of us have Kardashian-sized budgets, that doesn’t mean we can’t take some cues from the stylish celeb-set while dressing for the office. Depending on how lax your workplace may be regarding attire (some are obviously more strict than others), street style looks really can help you up your fashion quotient when getting dolled up in the morning.
Noteworthy: With sheer panelling and sexy cutouts being de riguer on the runways and red carpets, showing too much skin (or your thong; we’re looking at you, Kim! is never appropriate while working, whatever your beat.
FOR HER
The Environment: Creative and casual
The Look: Pulled together, stylish and fashion-forward can also be casual, but only where it suits. If this is your office, try emulating Olivia Palmero’s relaxed high/low mix. A belted peplum, skinny jeans, pointy-toed pumps and oversized clutch are all the right ingredients for mixing up a star outfit.
The Environment: All business, with a twist
The Look: An entertainment law firm, creative agency or artsy office calls for dress pants and a jacket, yes, but you don’t have to go too stuffy to prove you’re a team player. Have fun with colour and pattern, a la Jessica Alba. The key to this look is the touch of leather on her jacket, and complementing colours on her pants and purse.
The Environment: All business, all the time
The Look: Working in law or in finance still requires a certain look, so go for staples from great labels like Pink Tartan, Theory, and Victoria Beckham for classic pulled-togetherness! Work the skirt suit in anything but boring black for a little spin on tradition, like Stella McCartney did while excepting her Order of the British Empire. The great tailoring of this jacket and the of-the-moment, below-the-knee hemline make this look very modern.
The Environment: Every day is casual Friday
The Look: Just because you work from home as a freelancer doesn’t mean you get to lay around in your sweats all day! And even if it does, make like a good boy scout and always be prepared in case an important meeting crops up and you need to dash outside at a moment’s notice. Alexa Chung makes street style look easy in an all-blue ensemble, complete with my go-to look, denim-on-denim. The only must: keep away from the sneakers if you really want to be taken seriously!
FOR HIM
The Environment: Who’s the boss?
The Look: If you’re the man like Don Draper, don’t be afraid to add some panache to the everyday suit by sporting interesting patterns and textures. This slim, checkered suit on Matthew McConaughey at a recent movie premier is an unexpected take on business attire, and that’s why the fashion gods like it! Some people may not understand it, but that just means you’re ahead of the times. You are running the show, after all.
The Environment: Moving on up
The Look: While climbing your way up the corporate ladder, whether in advertising or finance, a suit isn’t always just a suit. Take actor Eddie Redmayne for explain. This blue suit, paired with a white work shirt, a tie and pocket square, screams sartorial savvy in an oh-so-British manner. Think well-made, investment pieces from the likes of Hugo Boss and Tiger of Sweden. The higher ups are sure to take notice.
The Environment: Career In Flight
The Look: Does every man crush on Ryan Gosling as hard as us women do? He’s got style, swagger and a very pretty face. So take note and keep it simple, even if you work in a creatively casual environment. A tailored shirt, slim-fit khakis and complementary belt, shoes and shades says you mean serious business – and may inspired a few fans along the way.
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The Environment: Casual & Canadian
The Look: Those Canadian Ryans sure do know how to dress well! Reynolds’ causal Friday look is anything but boring. A comfortable dress shirt/cardigan/slacks combo will serve you well, whether heading to your casual workplace or grabbing coffee with colleagues in your off-hours.
