With September here, and the first day of fall just around the corner, it seems like the perfect time to add to our workplace wardrobe. Helping us choose which items to invest in, is Kelly Millar, image consultant, stylist and Sweetspot expert.
Keeping our workplace wardrobe up-to-date seems impossible. What should we be investing in this year to keep us fashionable, yet professional?
Fall 2009 is revealing some fantastic styles; from a return to 1940's inspired tweed suits, to bright, bold colours and abstract floral prints. As a sign of the times, now more than ever it pays to be creative when it comes to your fashion choices. High-low style is my suggestion for this fall. You can mingle labels and quality pieces with more modest budget options, and no one will ever know the difference! Revamping your wardrobe to keep up-to-date shouldn't be a daunting task. Follow these simple guidelines to keep you looking fashionable, yet professional at the office this season.
- Tailored Sheath Dress: It's a classic basic for the professional women's wardrobe. This season we are seeing a more updated, tailored, figure flattering version. And the best part? It works for just about every body type.
- Original Shoes: Add an original twist to any professional outfit this fall with an up-to-the-moment oxford, peep-toe bootie or a basic pump with a thick, angular shaped heel. Choose a suede or a rustic colour that will blend beautifully with any neutral-coloured outfit. It will add that subtle interest and keep you feeling feminine and fashionable.
- Colour: Colour is all around this fall so try adding a splash to your wardrobe through a luxurious scarf or a pair of leather gloves in red, green, cobalt blue, yellow or orange.
- Structured Handbag: Opt for a more structured handbag or brief at the workplace, as slouchy or overly trendy handbags tend to look sloppy and unprofessional. A small designer handbag or a medium sized option projects an organized image.
- Structured Suit: Classic styled suits always project a well put-together image in the working world. Invest in a quality wool, well-fitted suit that highlights your curves. Opt for simple and elegant with a cut that suits your body type. Try a subtle plaid or check pattern to add some interest and keep you current.
- The Fitted Jacket: This will work with everything from dressy trousers to casual jeans and is perfect for creating several outfits in your wardrobe. The fitted jacket will add structure to your figure, create a slim silhouette while flattering feminine curves. Opt for a a fall fabric such as tweed or corduroy or go more luxe with velvet or brocade.
- Basic Wool Coat: an enduring style classic that is an essential investment in every woman's professional wardrobe. It will work with most things in your closet, especially if you choose a neutral colour, and it is guaranteed to give you that finished chic look this fall.
Kelly Millar is a fashion stylist and owner of Kelly Millar Image Consulting in Toronto. She may be reached at www.km-ic.com; info@km-ic.com; 647-283-3712.
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