How to wear statement skirts at work
Q. Most of my workwear is quite plain, and I’d like to buy one or two bolder pieces to mix in on important days. What would you recommend?
A. A standout piece in your wardrobe can make a lasting impression. When I first moved from the fashion world into the corporate environment I underestimated the power of wearing a bright colour or print until a dramatic Emilia Wickstead pleather skirt clinched a negotiation with Carla Bruni’s team prior to a French state visit to No 10.
While a statement dress is probably best left to the brave (or saved for the weekend), a skirt is a great in-between for the office. Keep your outfit simple and understated: think a luxe knit in a neutral shade of navy or grey or a crisp white shirt, and pair with boots rather than heels to make it daytime appropriate (then add heels or dressy flats for an evening event).
Sequinned skirt, £95.99, Zara + Wool peplum jacket, £390, Cefinn + Silk shirt, £120, Boden
Colour makes an impact even if the shape is very simple. Layeur’s elegant maxi skirt in magenta wool crêpe stands out, but the cut and fabric make it easy to style up and comfortable to wear. Marks & Spencer has a shorter pink option with a flattering box pleat that I would pair with a wine-coloured jumper and boots to make it office friendly. Of course, pink isn’t the only option: Uterque has a few lovely pleated skirts in violet and pewter. Go for the brightest shade you dare and wear it with tonal colours.
Mix/Natasha Zinko printed skirt, £99, Next + Carvela suede boots, £129, Kurt Geiger + Cashmere turtle neck, £69.90, Uniqlo
Print is the second option. Label Mix’s collaboration with Natasha Zinko has a standout floral skirt, and I know sequins are usually saved for the Christmas party, but Zara’s clever tweed-printed A-line sequin skirt, tempered with a black tailored jacket and boots, could be worn to work. And if you can’t wear something bold at this time of year, then when can you?
