The Ultimate Fashion Accessorizing Guide For The Savvy Business Woman

Gone are the days where savvy business women had to wear boring outfits to a professional office. While monochromatic suits, white button-up blouses, and black pumps are still practical for the everyday professional woman, they are boring and don’t do women any favors unless they have a little help. A woman can still show their individuality without screaming for attention with the proper use of accessories. Instead of providing a list of specific accessories, here are three things to look for when you want to dress up your work outfit.

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Something Timeless and Classic

When choosing an accessory, you’ll want something that will weather the storm of trendiness that occurs season after season. Even though you want your personality to shine, stay away from anything gaudy, because the office is not the place to mimic the club or runway. If you need inspiration, think of classic fashion icons, like Coco Chanel or Audrey Hepburn. Pearl necklaces and earrings emulate sophistication and will not overpower your look. Stainless steel, silver, gold and leather are simple and understated touches to watches, belts, earrings and necklaces. Even though it is the norm to glance at your cell phone for the time, the workplace is the perfect place to wear a watch. Make sure your watch (and all your designer jewelry for that matter) is nice—but not too nice. You don’t want your boss or co-workers to get jealous.

Bold Colors

Since most of your work wardrobe probably consists of neutral colors, add a pop of color to your outfit and bring cheer to the workplace. Aim for understated pieces that take your look up just a notch without causing a distraction to the eye. For example, a bold, orange handbag or skinny belt would look great against a taupe pant suit or an emerald green scarf would add animation to any monochromatic outfit. Black pumps are a staple in every business woman’s closet, but you can break up the monotony with a different colored pump every once in a while. Stay away from anything neon or shiny unless it’s minimal, like accents in an elegant statement necklace.

Fun prints

Printed accessories can be tricky, but when it’s done right, they can make any business woman look chic. Stick with the theme of classic and timeless. Choose a print like leopard, chevron or paisley that translates your look from day to night. For women, scarves are equivalent to a man’s tie so don’t be afraid to have fun with them. As long as the print isn’t too loud or dizzy, scarves, handbags, shoes, and even pantyhose can cause the same effect as a bold color. Hosiery is available in more than nude or black, so consider a subtle print or texture.

The professional world isn’t necessarily responsive to the fashion world but every savvy business woman can easily maintain their personal style and still look polished. As long as what you are wearing does not outshine your performance, you can have fun with accessorizing your work outfits. What you choose to wear to the office is a direct reflection on how you feel about your job, so the details in your outfit matter.