Mood-boosting workwear buys to get the new year off to a good start
Former Downing Street adviser and stylist Isabel Spearman answers your workwear style dilemmas.
Q. Once I’ve packed away anything ‘festive’, there’s not much left - what are your recommendations for the new year?
A. January has never been my favourite month, not helped by having a birthday in the middle. But I’m determined not to moan about it this year - despite the fact I’m hitting the big 40 - so instead, I’m going to look for some new workwear pieces that will make me feel good and positive, ready for new projects and exciting opportunities.
First up, a coat that will make me feel taller and, because of said birthday, feel youthful. A check is such a good investment as it will remain a classic: just look for one that has colours in it that mirror what’s already in your wardrobe. This mustard and black option from & Other Stories would be great over a black outfit and I love the little glimpse of pink in the print. The tailored shoulders and fitted waist will help define curves.
Next up, a dress that’s not as snugly fitting as I might usually wear - ideally something with a blouse-style top and bias cut skirt that will skim over the hips. I usually always advocate colour but I often feel best in black at this time of year, especially if worn with a printed coat. Cefinn’s pussy bow style is the most flattering I’ve found and, if you’re feeling braver than I am, it also comes in two graphic prints.
Poplin shirt, £59, Arket; Leather boot, £119, Zara; Pussybow maxi dress, £390, Cefinn; Bell-shaped skirt, £34.99, H&M
A good oversized shirt will be a welcome addition to any work wardrobe, as not only will it hide any excessive consumption, they really do look good on most figures. Just get the proportions right: if you wear loose on top, go slim below and vice versa. Arket has an incredibly chic cream version with caramel collar and cuffs.
A skirt in a bold but easy to coordinate print is also on my hit list, to be worn with a simple knit or shirting. Prints can be mood-boosting, and separates are often the easiest way to wear them. This office-friendly leopard print skirt from Massimo Dutti will fit into my new January wardrobe perfectly.
Last, but absolutely not least as they will be the key to any outfit, is a pair of white boots. I have gone back and forth on this trend for months but recently put my brave pants on and tried the white Zara pair - and I can safely say they revolutionise every outfit I have in my wardrobe. 2019, I’m coming to get you.
