Dressing for work is easier for women in creative industries like publishing or media advertising. They can basically wear whatever they want, as long as it’s not last night’s party dress. It’s corporate women who have it tough with strict company dress codes.
But just because you work in a corporate office doesn’t mean your workwear has to be boring. You have your office wear staples like button-downs, overworn trousers and pencil skirts yet you don’t have to be stuck in a fashion rut with this office uniform. There are pieces out there that scream fun while still remaining professional.
Here are 12 tips to make dressing for your office job fun.
Coloured Booties
These days, the classic black boot is not the only game in town. There are two-tone booties, suede booties, booties with prints on them and many more. Try swapping out your classic black boots for something bolder to upgrade any office look.
Monochrome Blush
If you’re like us, you already pull off monochrome black at the office on a regular basis. Although we love black on black, try switching it for head-to-toe blush. The colour offers your outfit a softer aesthetic while still remaining sleek and professional.
Leather Pants
A good pair of pristine leather pants can make even the most covered-up work outfit look totally sexy (but not too sexy for work). They are basically the universal pants; they look good on everyone and work with just about any other piece of clothing.
Bright Bags
If your dress code leaves minimal room for fun fashion upgrades, try getting creative when it comes to your carryall. Bold and bright coloured bag choices add a funky vibe to your regular trousers and blazer combo. Whether it’s a clutch, tote or even a backpack, make it something eye-catching.
Patchwork Tailoring
Ostentatious does not necessarily mean kitschy. Mixing business women plaids with wallpaper florals is a fashion equation that theoretically should not work but in actuality, it does (thank you, Prada). Try mixing a plaid pencil skirt with a floral silk blouse and see for yourself.
Trench Coats
You don’t have to limit yourself to accessories and shoes to make your office wear standout. Try showing up in a fashionable trench coat in either a striking colour or a textured material. Such a trench coat can be a fun take on a classic garment.
Patent Skirts
Challenge office wear silhouettes with a patent skirt in a deep colour. The look stays office-appropriate but comes with a little edge. Plus patent skirts are all the rage right now so why not bring the trend to your office?
Statement Necklaces
If your office dress code is exceptionally strict, remember that accessorizing can be your secret weapon. What’s not to love about a big, chunky statement necklace? It adds the perfect amount of fun to any refined wardrobe.
Boyfriend Blazers
Blazers are staples when it comes to office wear, but sometimes their fitted silhouettes can feel stuffy and boring. Try switching your structured blazer to a clean-cut, boyfriend blazer. A more oversized blazer can provide a hint of relaxation to a professional ensemble.
Stripes
https://www.instagram.com/p/BcQAyHJl4OQ/?taken-by=wearning_
Some say stripes are more business casual than business appropriate, but those people are mistaken. Opt for a thinly striped blouse or trouser while keeping the rest of your outfit more simple with neutral colours. The result is a lot more fun than boring.
Ruffled Sleeves
Ruffled sleeves can make even the most traditional of office outfits fun to wear. Wearing a blouse with one or two ruffles on its sleeves is not only trendy, but it also makes a powerful statement.
Jumpsuits
Wearing an office pantsuit regularly can turn into a real snoozefest. If you’re looking to liven things up, swap your two-piece for a one piece with a jumpsuit. But be sure to pick one that’s a bit looser and doesn’t show too much skin to keep things work appropriate.
Do you know any other ways to make dressing for work fun? Share with us in the comments section.
Featured image: Instagram/ @rw_co
Posts you might be interested in:
15 Iconic TV Shows That Changed The Way We Dress
Style Spotlight: Hayley Elsaesser, Fashion Designer
8 Places to Score a Winter Jacket for the Best Value in Toronto
This is How Much Money You’re Actually Supposed to Spend on Clothes
8 Places in Toronto Where You Can Create Custom Clothes