Dressing Feminine in the Business World
May I let you in on the fundamentals of executive dressing? This post is about successfully achieving a balance that is both feminine and professional enough to gain respect from the door.
One style statement that is pretty tricky is feminine dressing. How does that translate in an environment primarily dominated by men? Can you or would you feel like you can be taken seriously if you are in soft florals or daytime lace while running a boardroom meeting or giving a presentation to higher ups? ABSOLUTELY!
Feminine Dresses: Take the first step in showing you’re a woman in touch with her femininity and you rock! There is a misconception that in order to be a BOSS you must emulate your masculine counterparts. You can absolutely be taken seriously while standing in your executive boss shoes. Trends in season like soft pastels or lace are great textures and colors to bring a little “zing” to ordinary and always figure flattering classics like the wrap or A-line dresses.
Femininity can also be acquired in accessories. Wearing a classic look can be softened and sexy, yet serious with small touches like: peep-toe shoes, statement necklaces, brooches, striking shoe colors/patterns, sunglasses, and of course, handbags.
In order to be considered “great,” your dress choices need to be figure flattering… Rule #1. Tailoring is also vital when it comes to dresses. Make sure to alter any deep necklines that border inappropriate. If you think it might be too much; it likely is… Rule #2.
Here are a few feminine style pieces that are both feminine, yet classic and trend savvy:
If you ever worry about buying into a trend and being stuck with it after only a few months, never to wear it again, the Midi-Dress is the anti-trend trend you have been waiting for. It’s a timeless classic that is perfect as a work-to-play convert. This trend was a highlight in summer and fall fashion shows so it’s a keeper for your closet through seasons change.
A solid navy is a great color choice to start with or you can do a patterned midi and have fun pairing it with demure footwear during the day and sexy stilettos for the night. By definition, midis are any skirt that falls at or just below your knees. Anyone who is petite should go maxi or pencil length; midis wouldn’t work for your silhouette.
Now this one is from the 1960’s and as American as apple pie. The Pleated Skirt is a great silhouette for almost any shape. However again, I wouldn’t recommend for the petite woman (5’4 and under). This summer’s return to the classic skirt is an easy compliment to almost everything. Try it with a tailored blazer or fine-knit sweater layered over a collared shirt and heels.
It’s all about the journey; finding the right mix for you is essentially the KEY TO LIFE. It applies to everything; from finding the right career, the right mate and even the right wardrobe for you!