How working women can inject resort style into office wear

Dare–it’s summer. If you can’t get away, use fashion as form of escape

HOUGHTS of the blazing sun, crystalline waters, fresh breezy air, and the smell of sun-tan oil are enough invigorating come-ons to put anyone in a vacation mood.

Summer has always been one of my fa- vorite seasons. A certified beach bum, I am not one to stay in the comforts of an air-conditioned space, no matter how amazing a room may be. When on vacation, from sun-up to sun-down, I prefer to bask on the sun-drenched sand or soak in the water. I’ve always dreamt of spending an entire summer of pure carefree island living a la “Mamma Mia.” Waking up each day to a vast seascape. Dressed day in and day out in a myriad of swimwear. Indulging myself in seafood feasts. Living the slow-paced life with a sun-kissed tan.

Yet with one’s growing list of responsibilities, that longed-for seaside retreat will have to wait. In reality, most can take only a brief weekend escape into the island life. The call of the office and deadlines hound the working woman, making vacation planning a little challenging.

This does not mean, however, that we need to miss out on the sense of vibrancy and relaxation that summer brings.

When we have no choice but to be stuck in the city, fashion can be a form of escape!

The fashion world has long recognized the allure of resort wear. It is easy, breathable, youthful and fresh. In fact, aside from the standard Fall and Spring collections, a “Resort” fashion season emerged.

It was conceptualized to cater to affluent customers who escape harsh cold winters for warmer holiday destinations. Today, Resort, also known as Cruise or Pre-spring, collections have become a staple in many designer labels. They are no longer as exclusive and upper-crust.

Perhaps because of the rise of fast fashion brands (like Zara and H&M), the Resort collections have evolved into a means for designer labels to keep up. Designers now found another opportunity to offer fresh merchandise between the two major seasons, promoting the idea of season-less sportswear dressing, where pieces can extend from season to season. It pushes the belief that it is no longer necessary to switch wardrobes between winter and summer. Indeed, it is a more practical approach to fashion.

This concept is typical and very much applicable to Philippine lifestyle since our climate generally remains constant. Filipinos can wear the same wardrobe all year round. We may not enjoy fall, winter and spring, but local retailers and designers continually spurn out collections with seasonal directional hints to keep things new, exciting and relevant for the consumer.

So this summer, just because you may be stuck in an office building with thoughts of an island getaway on your mind, it does not mean that you don’t get to have some fun. Why not bring in the feeling of destination and leisure into the boardroom? Treat yourself to some fashion fun! Let your pieces with a light summer impulse cross over to the workroom.

Here are some of my resort favorites that find its way into myworkwear wardrobe.

Store your leather briefcase for now. Why not wear a leisurely straw tote to brighten up a day at work? I once saw a woman in London wearing a basket right in the thick of winter.

A beach basket—

Shield your eyes from the glaring sun as you walk through the concrete jungle! Go for colored or whimsical styles to liven up the mood.

Fun sunglasses— Tunic dress or blouse—

This loose and relaxed silhouette is a staple of resort wear. Also worn as a cover-up at seaside. For work, pair it with polished shoes and jewelry.

Pastels—

Soft candycolored hues are the rage. Try pairing pastel-onpastel for a soothing and clean take on work wear.