Watkinson

CLOTHES THAT WORK

I HAVE always wished I wore a uniform for work, nothing too restrictive like a fancy-schmancy air hostess, I am far too messy and rough around the edges to master their perfect red lipstick and groomed hair each day. But I like the idea of a mechanic’s boiler suit or maybe surgical scrubs, something comfortable that doesn’t require any effort in the shoe department.

Thankfully, I have never worked anywhere with a strict dress code, I was once put off applying for a job when I found out heels and tan tights were mandatory (for women – I don’t suppose men were subject to the same blatant prejudice).

Mandatory anything doesn’t float my boat. Of course “work clothes” can mean very different things depending on where you work and what you do.

My fondness for beige overalls by Reformation means that I regularly go to work dressed like I am a painter and decorator, but that wouldn’t cut the mustard in a more corporate setting.

I take my research for this column very seriously so I sent my friends with serious grown-up jobs a Whatsapp message to ensure my investigation into this was thorough.

It seems that the down-grade option is the most popular – this is the practice of relegating our oncefavourite weekend clothes down to the workwear-only category.

The calf-length silky skirt that made its debut at a hen-do? Pair it with a tucked in T-shirt and blazer for the office.

Pink Zara trouser suit looked great at the races? Wear it as separates, candy pink will still look smart with navy blue.

Buying clothes specifically for work wasn’t high on any of my subjects’ wardrobe priorities, so recycling items you already own seems the perfect alternative.

Try chopping a few inches off those highwaisted trousers to wear with flats, divide those scarf print co-ords and et voila you have a blouse for work and trousers that look instantly smart with a light-weight knit.

Sustainable fashion without even trying. Zara’s suit will work as well for the office as it will a day at the races. Blazer £29.99, trousers £19.99