Plus Isabel Spearman’s back to work updates
It’s a great time to reconsider your wardrobe and update it for cooler days
The start of a new season calls for a few stylish new buys for the office
QNow that my summer holiday is past, my workwear feels out of date. What should I be looking for?
ANo matter your age, the start of September brings a back to school feeling.
It’s a great time to reconsider your work wardrobe and update it for the cooler days ahead. The shops are full of mustard, plum and all those delicious autumnal colours, plus velvet, corduroy and winter florals; the trick is choosing a few additions to your workwear wardrobe to update what you have. Start with the shoes. With the Seventies inspiring new season trends, there is a lot of burgundy (my favourite colour) around. These patent block heels from Zara are perfect for work. They also come in black; I may buy both colours as they are such a good price. I am not one for patience (ask my husband) but I have had to wait for Arket to launch to get my hands on this dress. I will wear it with black or burgundy heels, and come colder weather it will look great with boots. Arket is H&M’S new sister brand and a good source for workwear. It’s hard to find tops that look just as good under a jacket as on its own, as the neckline is usually too low or high, but The Fold has a lovely mustard silk blouse with a pleat detail at the front. Yellow can put people off, but mustard is the easiest shade to wear, and this is the ideal time to try it, when your skin tone will likely be warmer and more tanned – if not, add a touch of bronzer. I like my pencil skirts printed, as I find it’s more flattering than a block of colour. M&S have a great option.
I avoid trousers as they don’t suit my figure, but if they’re your go-to, then Jigsaw should be on your list. A flattering cut with a high waist, their check trousers will look great with a simple knit. For those, I rely on Cos and Uniqlo which produce well fitting and good quality merino sweaters in mouth-watering colours.
And last but never least, a new coat. Checks and tweeds are everywhere thanks to the catwalks, and this LK Bennett coat is my favourite with its clean collar and nipped in waist. The problem is, I – and you – will have to wait two more weeks, as it’s not available until Sept 13. Fingers at the ready… To ask Isabel Spearman your workwear questions, email isabel.spearman @telegraph.co.uk or follow her on Instagram @isabelspearman