Image Credit: Trelise Cooper Boardroom
With the number of women rising on the corporate scene, it has become evident that women are a force to reckon with. Armed with degrees, exuding confidence and strutting around the office in style in her heels – that’s how one would picture the modern working woman. And yes, she’s all that and so much more.
Times have changed and women have come a long way in terms of handling responsibilities and being fashionable at work. Styles have evolved and gone are the days when they would always be seen clad in dark-coloured power suits.
Having said that, I do not mean that risqué miniskirts and low-cut tops make for appropriate work wear either. It is important to find the right balance between being soft and feminine, and someone who does not take no for an answer.
You need to work on creating a perfect marriage between ‘no-nonsense business’ and ‘modern feminine fashion’ to be able to make positive associations with the term ‘power dressing’ for women. Here a few tips that will help you do just that.
Image credit: moochi
Mind the Fit
This is a basic requirement and a very important one at that. Whether it is a business or a casual scenario, ill-fitted clothes are a big no-no. They give the impression that you’re a bit of a dowdy slob and just bring down your overall look. Visit a good tailor and have him alter your clothes if you think they’re too loose, too tight, too long, or too short. Remember, your clothes should hug your body slightly as opposed to grip it tightly.
The length of your skirts and pants, the fit of your jeans, the neckline of your blouses, and the hemline of your dresses – do get all of these altered in a way that’s considered appropriate in your work environment. By that, I don’t mean that you transform into a conservative grandmother or (alternatively) into a showgirl. Keep the balance.
Wear Blazers
Image credit: Trelise Cooper
Setting modern office environments ablaze are the evergreen blazers. Simply add one to your outfit and become a modern power dresser. Make sure it fits well though. For a more ‘I-mean-business’ look, wear it with matching cigarette pants and nude-coloured pumps.
Image credit: Liam
When it comes to the modern blazer, you need to make sure it is lean and is in alignment with the natural shape of your body. Avoid those old-fashioned box-shaped blazers with shoulder pads, they’re out! Skip the large buttons or keep them small. Apart from pants, blazers can also be worn over a dress.
Image credit: moochi
Don’t Shy Away from Luxe Fabrics
Okay, just because you work doesn’t mean you wear boring fabrics all the time. Think classic, think luxury, think elegance, think luxe fabrics. Modern power dressing requires you to venture out of the tried and tested and look at other office-appropriate fabrics like silk and cashmere as well. Not only are these fabrics rich, they also add a bit of femininity and extravagance to your appearance.
Jewel-ify
Image credit: Kagi jewellery
To wear or not to wear jewellery at work? This is one area that leaves many women puzzled when it comes to their work wardrobe. A lot of offices have guidelines about the kind of jewelry they expect their female associates to wear, but what about those that don’t? Well, it’s not as difficult to crack this one as you think. Just keep this simple rule in mind – keep it minimalistic, classy, and elegant.
You want to wear very few but timeless pieces of jewelry when going to work. They look stylish and make a statement of their own. Say a huge and thumping “NO” to junk-costume jewelry! You’re at work, not at a party. Chunky watches, on the other hand, are perfectly acceptable. They look good and have been “in” for a long time now. Make sophistication your mantra in this category and you should do just fine.
Image credit: The Stockroom NZ
Say Yes to Colours
Although whites, blacks, greys, blues, and browns have ruled the corporate world when it comes to work attire, many women have started experimenting with color. With that, I would like to add that balance is the key here as well. Do not wear loud, garish colors to work. You’ll only stand out for all the wrong reasons.
Although wearing colours is becoming increasingly acceptable in modern workplaces, do make it a point to pick the hues that are in keeping with the culture and atmosphere at your workplace. One of the best ways of adding colour to your outfit is by adding colourful accessories like a scarf, a belt, or a bag. Wear these in powerful colours and show everyone who’s the boss!
Just for Kicks
Image credit: Ecco shoes, photo by Megan Robinson
When it comes to power dressing, a pair of high-heeled pumps seems like the obvious choice to reflect feminine confidence and command. While pumps will always be the go-to footwear for work, there are varieties in that as well. Opt for closed and pointed-toe shoes. Matt or glossy – take your pick, both are acceptable. Experiment with footwear but avoid open-toed shoes, sneakers, and flip-flops. They’re way too casual to be worn to work.
Image credit: Mimco bag, Megan Robinson
Be Comfortable
This is the ultimate and the most important style tip. What you wear should make you feel comfortable and put you at ease (still saying no to pajamas in office) as it will reflect in your actions and attitude. Remember, power dressing is not about being someone you’re not. Rather, it is about channeling your innate confidence and power and doing what you do best.
Image credit: RUBY
Conclusion
At the end of the day, being powerful is a state of mind. Your dressing certainly helps you get there, and that’s why it is important to dress like a powerful person. Clothes make the man, it is said. Well, we say it makes the woman too!
Image credit: Georgia Alice
Author Bio:
Millie Rainer is a content strategist for Adorona.com. She is looking to build up her authority as a blogger – so she is excited to explore new topics. Follow her on Twitter @MillieRainer. This post is made possible by Adorona.com
21st August 2014
Leave a Reply