As women have progressed into workplace roles with more power and authority, our staple wardrobe looks have progressed as well. From the 1920’s vision of small waists and protruding busts through the ’80’s matching pant-and-jacket suits with broad shoulder pads to the current sleek and gender-neutral look, fashion is ever-evolving—and it’s important you portray a current, non-dated look in the workplace. Here are some keys to achieving the new power look.
Go Bold
Pick one piece that is on-trend, that will set you apart from the rest. Whether it’s a heavy, quilted blazer, a misplaced ruffle trim or bold-colored blouse, adding a touch of flair to your look will project confidence and enable your creativity to shine through. However, keep the look professional by partnering it with a simple and classic item, like a black streamlined pencil skirt, basic blazer or sleek tailored trouser.
Accentuate Your Look
Accessorizing not only adds dimension and texture to your look, but it also shows your attention to detail. Select high-quality handbags and jewelry to complete and define your look. While bargains are tempting, go with quality over quality when it comes to accessories. Fraying purse straps and handles and low-quality metal that turns your skin green will have the opposite effect when dressing to impress.
Tailored to Fit
The perfect fit is also important when pulling a power play with your clothing. Clothes hanging off a small frame look sloppy, while too-tight attire looks trashy. Select outfit silhouettes based on your body type to achieve a tailored, put-together look that will turn heads (in a good way).
Rectangle body shapes should create the illusion of a waistline. Try a loose blouse tucked into a slim pencil skirt and belted at the waist. Alternately, those with an hourglass shape will be flattered with a simple wrap dress. Top the look off with a bold statement necklace. Once you identify the style that flatters, you can build your staple wardrobe and mix and match pieces to create powerful and professional looks for the office.
A Mile in Her Shoes
There is a reason so many women obsess over shoes. Heels have staying power in the fashion world, and you can’t go wrong with a gorgeous nude pointed-toe heel to lengthen legs in a knee-length skirt or a classic patent leather pump in gray beneath a tailored black slack. If you go with a statement shoe, pick one aspect and go bold with it, such as color, height or style. Mixing too many trends into one shoe will detract from your professionalism and undermine your power play.
To Top It All Off
Don’t compromise your completed ensemble by throwing on any old coat. A long, tailored coat in a neutral color will polish off your look, especially when you’re walking to your car with the CEO right behind you or leaving a lunch meeting with an important potential client. A fit and flare overcoat is the perfect combination of professionalism and femininity.
