Isabel Spearman
How to step up your workwear
Q I’ve just been promoted and want to amp up my wardrobe so that it suits my new position. Where do I start? A
This seems to be a recurring question with readers. It’s also a hard one to be specific on as every job is different, but it is possible to give your own working wardrobe a gear change. And, promotion or not, it’s a healthy thing to do every few years.
I recently gave a talk about personal presentation at work to a group of senior executives, and they all wanted to discuss their own “power” outfit. These women all work in different industries, but each has a confidence‑boosting outfit – from a red skirt suit to a simple black shift dress – that they always turn to for big moments in their careers. Mine is a navy wool COS dress that I bought years ago – it’s my go‑to when I want to feel my best. Everyone will have that outfit already in their wardrobe – the trick is to work out what it is, and then replicate it. I’m a great believer in buying the same great piece twice if it comes in two colours – one dark, one bright.
First, you need to go through your existing work wardrobe and cull those outfits you never wear – or wear out of guilt, and then spend all day wishing you hadn’t. It’s better to have six fantastic work outfits than 20 just‑about‑ok ones. Ask your most honest friend (whose style you admire) to lend a fresh pair of eyes. Identify the pieces you turn to, like your favourite blazer or skirt, and then look for similar cuts. Secondly, re‑evaluate your body shape. I can’t tell you the amount of clients I see who are trying to dress around the figure they had in their 20s. Focus on your good bits: if you have great legs but a bit of a tummy, then shorter, tunic‑style dresses and skirts will look amazing. If you’re pear‑shaped, look for midi dresses that show off your waist, or an A‑line skirt to wear with a shirt tucked in. The aim is to create a separate workwear section of your wardrobe, where every item is used regularly. Once you’re shopping, buy the best materials you can afford; they’ll last longer and look smarter. The Outnet is fantastic for well‑priced pieces that might be out of season in the fashion world but are ideal for the office. Invest in classics that you can mix with cheaper seasonal buys. Whatever job you’re in, most professional wardrobes will need a well cut blazer, a good coat, tailored trousers with or without a matching jacket, a go‑with‑anything neutral blouse and a simple dress in the style that suits you the most. Lots of websites now have workwear sections that will save you hours of trawling. Even easier are the increasing number of workwear‑focused brands; Me + Em, Winser London, The Fold, Goat, Rose and Willard, and Libby London. Finally, if your handbag is looking a bit tired – what better excuse is there for a new one than a promotion?