Once upon a time, a day in the boardroom meant sharp suits for men and tailored dresses for women, but the rise of smart casual culture has meant there is more flexibility in what you can wear for a day at work than ever before.
But with this shift, it’s easy to feel as if the polished looks of times gone by have given way to ensembles that lack impact – particularly when it comes to commanding respect and making the right first impression when meeting important new contacts. The good news, though, is that it’s easier than you think to elevate your daily workwear and infuse it with a touch of luxury – even if it’s no longer necessary to don formal office attire.
In fact, modern workwear is all about stylish and thoughtfully curated looks that as well as getting you noticed for all the right reasons, exude a touch of personal flair and the kind of personality that the cookie cutter outfits of the past simply couldn’t.
Here, we take a look at four simple ways to enhance your looks for a day at work – whether you’re heading for a busy day at the office or a high-pressure day of big meetings, entertaining a client over lunch, or a productive day out and about.
Look for luxurious fabrics
When it comes to workwear it’s fair to say that you get what you pay for, so investing in quality materials and craftsmanship is key. Fabrics like merino wool, cashmere and silk all exude a sense of opulence and promise to make your ensemble look respectable as well as feeling great against your skin.
Invest in versatile pieces
The foundation of any well curated luxury wardrobe is timeless and versatile pieces, and by creating a capsule collection based around these you’ll ensure you always have something at hand for any type of work-related occasion.
Men should invest in a high-quality pair of trousers, a tailored blazer and a few crisp shirts and t-shirts that they can mix up to create a number of different looks, while women can do the same but with the addition of a simple black dress that can be dressed up or down and two pairs of shoes – one nude and one in black – along with any other basic items you can envisage styling in various different ways. The key here is simplicity, so opt for a neutral or monochrome colour palette and items that can be tailored to the occasion with some carefully selected accessories.
Balance functionality and style
Comfort is key when it comes to workwear, and balancing functionality and style will ensure that you’re always set up for a successful day. If you spend a lot of time working outdoors or are physically active, then you’ll need attire that was designed with this in mind, and that is flexible enough to allow for free movement whilst still looking stylish. The functional range of workwear by Strauss is a great example of how your work attire can work harder for you, and features cargo trousers with extra pockets for holding the essentials and stylish soft-shell jackets designed to guard you against the elements.
If, on the other hand, your job is mainly office-based or you run your company from your own lavish headquarters, then look to your accessories to provide the function you need. A multi-compartment briefcase or handbag is essential for transporting your laptop and important documents around with you and a simple wool coat with large, deep inner and outer pockets will provide you with extra space to keep your wallet, smartphone and keys without cramping your style.
Accessorise with intention
Accessories have the power to transform even the simplest outfits into extraordinary statements – as long as you choose them wisely. A simple pair of gold earrings or cufflinks, or a luxurious leather bag in a classic silhouette will instantly communicate that you mean business and exemplify your excellent taste, which is certain to win you respect from those who matter.
The key to accessorising effectively is to go by the mantra ‘less is more’. Choose just one or two opulent pieces and wear them with a simple yet sophisticated ensemble, and you can’t go wrong.
