As a business student, it is standard protocol to own a “go-to” suit, plus an array of other business outfits. Being a woman in business, it’s even more difficult to find that perfect interview outfit, needing to balance function with fashion! Retail stores such as Nordstrom, Banana Republic, and J. Crew have “wear-to-work” lines, but business fashion disasters can still happen.
Use these tips to prevent yourself from being the next victim on “What not to Wear”:
First, if you want to showoff your feminine side, but still want to be taken seriously in the office, ditch the pants and try an appropriate skirt! However, BEWARE of hemlines! Skirts should either be just above or just below the knee. Make sure your skirt does not expose too much skin! However, a skirt that is too long will also make you appear shorter and dowdier.
Next, buying neutral separates can be a great way to exponentially increase the life of your work wardrobe. Stick to colors such as black, gray, and navy for jackets, pants, and skirts. This way you can mix and match! Add splashes of color in your blouse or shoes, acting as an accent not the main statement.
[pagebreak]
Speaking of making a statement, while it may be prudent to be completely “business professional” in an interview setting, you can still add self-expression after you land the perfect job (which can be done with the right accessories). When it comes to accessorizing, make sure you are complementing the outfit as a whole and not wearing one thing that is too outrageous. For example, those chandelier earrings you just bought may not be the best choice for the office (the weekend, however, is another story). I personally love what Ann Taylor is doing right now: neutral basics partnered with modern tailoring and brights/florals to make it POP! For example, a neon skinny belt added to neutral pants can make that suit look more stylish or break up a blocky dress.
“The new Ann Taylor is the perfect mix of sophisticated fashion with a modern edge.” – Kate Hudson
When it comes to shoes, heels seem like the obvious choice. If you go this route, make sure the heel does not exceed four inches (3 inches is better)! Also, it’s usually wise to stay clear of open-toed and sling backs (although these may be acceptable in a more casual office). This may seem like common sense, but never wear flip flops – you don’t want to be the one who clomps around, alerting the entire office when you’re on the move!
Above: Ann Taylor’s “Perfect Leather Pump”
So ladies, next time you feel too frumpy in that old suit, follow these tips and you’ll be a fashionista while still being completely professional!
*Sources:
http://www.boston.com/jobs/topworkplaces/2009/dresstoimpress/
http://www.anntaylor.com/ann/home/index.jsp
http://bananarepublic.gap.com/?kwid=1&sem=false
http://www.jcrew.com/index.jsp
http://shop.nordstrom.com/