How to strike the right smart/casual balance for work
Isabel Spearman is a brand and image consultant who previously worked as special adviser to Samantha Cameron at Downing Street. Each week , she offers a helping hand dissecting workwear dress codes and offering a modern take on power dressing.
To ask Isabel Spearman your workwear questions, email isabel.spearman@telegraph.co.uk or follow her on instagram @isabelspearman
In this week's column, she tackles less-corporate dress codes...
Q. I run my own consultancy and find myself visiting offices with widely varying dress codes, from denim friendly to suits-only, often in the same day. How can I make sure I look appropriate for both?
A.Who hasn’t turned up to a meeting or new job and wanted the ground to swallow them up as everyone either looks much smarter than you - or considerably more casual? I’d like to think that this column covers as many workwear options as possible, but the smart/casual question does keep popping up as it can be tricky to get the right balance.
In less corporate environments you still want to look professional and capable, but also fit into the general vibe of the office.
Start with one of your workwear staples. I am always happiest in a dress and so have a selection, some smarter than others, but your staple may be trousers or skirts - whatever you wear the most. Those key pieces can be dressed up or down to suit different occasions or settings: especially useful if you work in a freelance capacity.
Fisherman sweater, £150, Toast; Zoe sneakers, £75, Vagabond; Shirt dress, £140, Boden
A fitted leather jacket with a dress helps to create a more relaxed look than a blazer would, and is good in-between seasons. Team with knee-high boots in the winter and box fresh white trainers or loafers in the summer. Looser tailoring and longer hemlines will also give dresses a more relaxed style but choose good quality, crease free fabrics that will still allow you to look polished. Wide leg trousers are a great ‘non-corporate’ look; pair them with a crisp white shirt or chunky knit.
22 pieces to buy now to refresh your work wardrobe
Even jeans, when worn in a smart way, are increasingly becoming acceptable workwear. Look for a dark wash and absolutely no rips; a high waist (or belt) is also advisable to avoid them riding down and showing skin. There are some fantastic blazers this season that will elevate your jeans for the office; a print, like a Prince of Wales check, or colour in a light weight fabric will look both modern and smart.
