New Age guide to changing office fashions

IF GETTING dressed in the morning is putting you back to sleep, then it might be time for a take on your office style. Crate|ov Clothes stylist, Big Kev has the advice you need to rock the office effortlessly.

The good news is that suits are out. Reports show that only 10% of men wear a suit to work. Most said suits were too uncomfortable and too expensive, considering the upkeep. They reported that casual clothes also gave them a chance to express themselves and their personalities.

Most workplaces are becoming more chilled: less of a hierarchy and more of a team. Bosses are not scary authoritarian figures anymore, but act more as coaches and facilitators. Everyone is on a first-name basis. And the most noticeable change – dress codes are becoming a lot more casual.

Don’t go thinking suits are fully out. Now that men are wearing casual clothes during the day, suits are starting to appear for after-work drinks, events or dates. Leave the tie and go for casual shoes to show off your ensemble in a cooler way.

What to wear to work then? Your outfit should look classy and professional. Smart jeans or chinos in conservative colours like navy, black or beige, with a button-down, solid colour shirt will look smart in a cool, unplanned way.

A sports jacket can dress up jeans in a flash while being less formal than a blazer. Jerseys are a good idea – go for a lightweight knit in solid colours that don’t clash with whatever else you’re wearing. Nothing should be too baggy; make sure your clothes fit you right.

Don’t let your footwear drag you down. Sneakers are allowed if your business is super casual and if your boss wears them too. Otherwise, go for some soft leather loafers or dress shoes. Get a pair in black and brown so you can wear the right colour with the right pants. What you wear to work should reflect who you are (within the confines of professionalism) and it should make you feel comfortable.