Knowing what to wear to give the right impression is always tricky ? especially when a work environment is relaxed. These two things have really worked for me...

  • Wearing a skirt, and

  • A tailored coat

    • Wearing a skirt instantly gives me a sense of feeling well-dressed without losing the appearance of being casual. An interesting ? length coat, which is a tailored, has become a staple of my winter wardrobe. It can be worn over jeans and casual shirts or a top with boots. This gives me a look that is both elegant and casual.

    By using simple lines and simple colours I immediately limit the amount of impact an outfit has on my colleagues or clients and this automatically tones down the formal appeal. At the same time I want to fit in with the casual environment so I avoid suits, rather opting for jeans, skirts and dresses.

    When it comes to colours and patterns, the following guide is indispensable:

    Colour goes with colour

    Try to generally keep hot colours together ? pinks, oranges and reds. Cool colours such as blues and greens should also be combined. There is however one exception and this is lilac, which can go with either cool (blues) or hot (pinks).

    Black with black

    Black should only be worn with black, white and perhaps a bit of grey! Grey evidently is ?the new black?, but please watch out for fads and trends. Following a trend or fad is expensive and if you are not careful it could end up as a disaster. Trends and fads never last very long anyway!

    The simpler the better

    This is true for the workplace ? especially a casual work place. Limit yourself to one busy pattern or focal point. If you want to wear beautiful jewelled sandals then team them up with simple plain trousers and a top. If you want to wear a floral skirt, wear a plain top and shoes to match.

    Less is more

    Think less is more with regards to your work outfits. Spend money on quality items. Just because you have a casual work environment doesn?t mean you should look like a slouch. For instance, if you can wear jeans then invest in really amazing ones ? which fit you perfectly and will last long. Sevens jeans may cost you half your pay packet but they will make you look and feel a million dollars. The pain caused to your credit card will soon subside whenever you try them on!

    On the next page we give you tips on good grooming.