Business attire doesn’t have to be all about suits and plain colors. Ditch the blacks, grays, and nudes (unless that’s what you like) and start incorporating your own style into your business clothes. No one wants to feel like two different people all day: Buttoned up and formal at work, and relaxed and yourself at home. There’s a way to subtly mesh the two together, while still keeping respect in the workplace.
Jewelry
In general, jewelry is a surefire way to enhance any outfit. You can use a vintage or modern ring to look stylish, a colorful bracelet for a pop of color, or an expensive watch to look both professional and classic. A good statement necklace can show off your personality, without changing your wardrobe. Body chains can be risque, but an appropriate one can change the vibe of your entire look.
The best part about jewelry is how versatile it is. You can wear many pieces with multiple outfits, and even where multiple pieces of jewelry in one outfit. Just adding a necklace and a ring can change your outfit from plain to glamorous. For men, upgrading your watch or wearing vintage cufflinks will do the same thing.
Footwear
There may be nothing more classic than a woman in a business suit with a killer pair of heels on. Instead of going for the typical plain black, try out a pattern or splash of color. If you’re feeling it, you can even try a clear heel, spiked heels, or even metallic-colored. The possibilities are endless!
If you don’t feel completely comfortable venturing into new footwear, you can go be a little safer and try custom socks by OurSock.com. For men and women, socks are an easy way to show off your tastes on a smaller area that may be easily hidden. Try green socks with flowers on them, black socks with your favorite sports team’s logo, or even just a pattern you love.
Jackets
Outwear is the most obvious and subtle way to show your style, because you don’t have to be wearing a jacket all day in the office, but it will still be seen. This is a great chance to showcase an interesting pattern or bright color. If you want to be more subtle, you can use a colorful or pattern belt or hate as an accessory to your neutral-colored jacket. You could also try mixing styles. For example, wear a leather bomber jacket if you’re more edgy.
If you don’t already own items to spice up your wardrobe, now’s the time to start shopping! We suggest checking out stores you don’t usually visit, even thrift stores, because you never know what might catch your eye. You might also find something in your bins of clothes that you haven’t worn since college, or a family members unused closet. If you’re due for a new pair of glasses, think about getting a pair that no one can miss.
However you decide to incorporate your personal style into your business repertoire, there’s no doubt you’ll feel more confident by letting your own view of fashion blend into the business world.