STYLE SOS

What to wear to work

30 January 2019

With different rules for different industries, getting dressed for the office – or your version of – can be tricky territory. You want to look professional and stylish but ultimately feel confident in whatever you’re wearing. So how do you tick all the boxes? We’ve enlisted three incredibly chic working women, from the world of corporate law to media and influencer management, to answer that very question. Their unifying message? Dress like a boss and you will feel like a boss.

SHOP ALL WORKWEAR

Mariko Kuo

Mother, corporate lawyer and founder of style blog, Mariko Kuo

As a lawyer working in London, I’ve been in many situations that tested my confidence like leading a hostile negotiation as the only woman amongst a sea of suits. It’s taught me to own my femininity: dressing like a boss makes me feel empowered. If I have an important meeting I always choose a structured silhouette as it feels professional and gives me the confidence to own it when it counts. For interviews, you want to stand out from the crowd so this is where colour is a great tool. And ‘Dress Down Fridays’ are when I have some fun with my outfits, though I will always make sure I’m ready to change it up if there's a last-minute meeting. Simple tricks like wearing a blazer and changing my shoes to heels are easy ways to transform a more casual look, like this chunky pink knit and floral skirt combination.

Melissa Mould

Managing partner of global media agency and founder of style blog, Media Marmalade

“Your working wardrobe needn’t be dull, drab or a leap from your usual clothes. What you wear says a lot about you, and there’s nothing that exudes confidence as much as someone who is clearly true to themselves. Of course, some careers require formal attire or restricted uniforms, but on the whole you can give any dress code your own twist through colour, tailoring and accessories. I’m lucky to work in the advertising industry where we truly can wear what we want – and that I do. That could mean print clashing or styling up an outfit that feels somewhat ‘out there’. As long as your clothes make you feel good, that is the ultimate goal for confident dressing, in and out of work.”

Anna Eleri Hart

Founder of influencer media management company, One Roof Social and style blog, South Molton St Style

“This look is probably as close as I get to ‘dressing up’ for work. One of the main joys of being self-employed is having the freedom to wear whatever I want. That said, my routine has gone slightly beyond working in my pyjamas on the sofa (I do miss that luxury though sometimes). These days, I have to make more of an effort and a jacket like this chic bouclé design definitely does the job. I never stray far from wearing jeans though – they’re my second skin.”

SHOP ALL WORKWEAR