Plus Isabel Spearman’s guide to prints
Embracing print will help you to stand out without sticking out
Q Wearing black and navy at work feels defeatist when it’s so sunny outside. But what’s an alternative – that’s still appropriate? A
At this time of year, I am often asked about how people can wear print for work – and, more specifically, how to ensure they stay the right side of professional. In some ways, this is the prime time to add some liveliness to your wardrobe, as there are lots of printed items on sale in stores by now. But don’t get distracted by the surplus of choice in very bright colours, which can feel more suitable for the beach than the office. Geometric prints work really well and will transcend through the seasons, ideally in muted tones so they are easy to match with a jacket. Florals can look very garden party so keep these prints for separates so that you can sharpen up with tailoring. Then, crucially, work out how brave you’re feeling about incorporating prints into your working wardrobe before setting out to shop for that statement piece.
Personally, my favourite way to wear print is in a dress as it is one simple block, which you can wear alone for maximum impact or add a jacket to play it down. Goat has a new blue-hued firework print dress that is very flattering and will work with black tights in the winter, too. I also love this Finery dress, which is the best example of a refined print, though I’d suggest replacing the fabric belt with a black leather one for the office.
If dresses are too much for you then the easiest and most subtle way to embrace print is with a top you can slip on under a jacket. It can peek out and give a flash of colour but not shout too much.
LK Bennett always has a pretty selection of print blouses. I particularly love this green silk blouse that I would pair with navy separates. This is one of my favourite hues of green – it suits everyone and looks great in photos.
If you are an avid trouser wearer (unfortunately not an option for me with my Spanish hips), then a print trouser with a simple white shirt and jacket can look incredibly chic. Maxmara Weekend has a fun orange geometric print that would look great with black loafers.
Playing it safe with a print shoe is perfectly acceptable too, especially when worn with a modern trouser suit. Choose a print that includes navy or black so it’s easy to incorporate. Zara always has a brilliant selection of heels for work and these slingback kitten heels are the perfect height, as well as being a shape that’s been seen on catwalks. (It’s rare but handy when trends and practicality collide, so take advantage.) They’re pretty enough to wear for non-work days too, which is a bonus.
And if you’re reading this bemused because you’re already a print convert, well then go for it with this African cotton dress by British independent label Eponine London. Designer Jet Shenkman has ready-towear pieces but she can also make stunning bespoke outfits using her extensive collection of prints. You would definitely own any stage wearing one of these creations.
PS I would like to add that I don’t believe prints are just for the summer months, although there may be more on offer at this time of year. A print in the winter is, as my father would say, very smart. And, arguably, when the rain comes you need cheering up in the office all the more.