Work the look

First impressions count, that’s for certain, but what about second impressions, third, more? What, in fact, about the impression that you make at work, on a daily basis, to colleagues and contacts, at your desk, in meetings or at conferences, as you go about your business?

Does your look carry you forward, or hold you back?

Style matters, whatever your field of business. So, too, does fashion, especially if you work in an office, or for yourself in a role that sees you dealing with others, representing, meeting business contacts.

Even a nod to the latest themes and trends indicates that you are someone who keeps up, who knows what is going on and who cares about detail as well as appearances.

But you can go too far. Following trends too slavishly or too obviously can suggest that you are someone fickle and easily swayed, someone who jumps on the nearest bandwagon without consideration for the consequences. This does not inspire confidence, so go easy – at least on the cutting edge hairdo and the latest so-cool “obscene message” T-shirt, even if it is only just peeking out from under your jacket (this applies to both sexes).

Pick the trends that work for work. This autumn’s new androgyny theme is a good example, an excellent way to introduce an interesting yet strong edge to your look. Seek out sleek, well-cut, tailored trousers to wear with heels or flat brogues. Wear with a bold red sweater or go for a diamond or geometric pattern, for a graphic touch.

Look out too for mannish jackets, cut to seem slightly oversized with longer line, slim lapels and sloping shoulders, or try a tuxedo style. These can be worn to complete a mannish outfit, or over a simple tunic dress, or a panelled pencil skirt and high heels or boots, for just a dash of new androgyny.

Panelled dresses are continuing through to the autumn, but losing their overly structured, sucked-in appearance and instead taking a more playful and comfortable approach to body-con smart dressing. This two-tone dress, usually with a central vertical panel, is both flattering and easy to sit in, if in a stretch jersey, so it’s a good option. This season, give it a little more edge with ankle boots or hi-top wedge trainer-style shoe-boots, which are such a comfortable option for the office, and are fine for walking a fair distance, should you have to.

Other key items for the new season working wardrobe include: the short wrap skirt or kilt; the tunic dress in black or grey or navy tartan/check (introduce colour with accessories and tights); the jumpsuit in black or pinstripe; the faux leather quilted skirt (above the knee and A-line is best), and the mid-length pencil skirt.

Finally, the blouse – an easy way to bring new season pattern and colour to your existing work wardrobe, updating all your old classics.

Twitter: @yorkshirefashQ