Yes, it’s time for the beach bonfires, BBQ’s, rooftop soirees, clinking glasses with friends and good old conversations around the picnic table in the backyard. Before you leave the office for these priceless moments, I’d like to give you some pearls of wisdom on how to keep this feeling even after the fireworks end. Timeless colors like RED, WHITE & BLUE are synonymous with July and usually evoke happy memories like I just mentioned. Why not make these colors staples of your wardrobe all summer long?
RED. This color can sometimes be overwhelming for the office. A red dress is traditionally considered proper for evening wear because it’s alluring and all the things women want to downplay in the workplace for obvious reasons. But it’s no longer a faux pas for the office. Red shades are subtle yet effective mood enhancing colors – and they come in many hues and tones so it’s won’t be a problem to find one that’s appropriate for everyone for day and night. Another option is simply to brighten your workplace ensemble with red accents. Bright accents are a fantastic way to inject some color into your wardrobe. Try adding them in your jewelry, handbag or belt, nail color or lipstick
WHITE. A color many would consider risky for the office because one drop of ink or coffee will destroy event the best materials. But the benefits wearing white are much greater than the risks, I promise you! You can always layer your white (blazer or sweater) so if there is a mishap, you have a cover-up. Another great tip: Tide to go sticks and a quick run to the bathroom with a small towel, hot water and a little bleach works too (lightly wash the spot with water and a dab of bleach then let it air dry). More casual mixes are great options when wearing white. Denim jeans, shirts or blazers are instantly dressy options when in white and paired with heels and great accessories.
BLUE. The first thing that comes to my mind is the ALL AMERICAN DENIM JEAN. Obviously, this isn’t always a good option for work. However, you can wear denim to the office without a trip to HR. DENIM SHIRTS and DENIM JACKETS can be great additions to your work attire. Take a simple, traditional black skirt or slack and a very feminine handbag and add a denim shirt (even add a men’s tie or thin ladies’ scarf). Also try the same look with a simple tee or button down shirt and add the DENIM JACKET – it’ll be a throwback to summers past every time.
There is no rule book in fashion. The designers create outfits from inspiration and so should you! Dare to be creative and dress according to how you feel daily. Work wear, casual wear and eveningwear are distinct genres of fashion, but they can overlap and intermix when done with common sense and restraint. Show INDEPENDENCE in your style & enjoy the sights and sounds of summer! This season is way too short to waste.
Pamela Watson is an experienced stylist who currently works as the trend expert for Builders of Style, where she prepares A-list clients for red carpet events, music videos, concerts, and award shows.