To perk you up a bit, here are some ways you can prep for that TGIF date with your girlfriends by spicing up your work outfits. Plus, we threw in some wallet-friendly products too.
Shake It Up
Instead of going for the typical skirt and blouse combo, wear a crisp, classy pencil skirt with some detailing like a floral print or an outlined silhouette. Or try a pleated skirt that’s not black – like this TopShop Rainbow Pleat Midi Skirt (S$76.90), and tuck in a work-friendly frill blouse like this one.
When choosing your top, avoid the typical plain top and reach for some frills or bell sleeves – anything that screams fun, wear it!
Leather alternative
Leather leggings aren’t that comfy for our humid weather so instead, pop on a leather biker jacket or a slim blazer and pair it with ankle-length pants or jeans, a plain top and low-cut boots. The key for this outfit is to accessorise.
This outfit is the most office-friendly and makes you look classy at the desk and at the dinner table.
Statement necklaces
Necklaces do a great job of adding class and sophistication to your outfit. They’re your classic work outfit, elevated with a necklace.
Layers and more layers
You can also go for layered necklaces however, these might not be too work-friendly so unless you’re in a job that allows you to dress up, avoid wearing a layered necklace.
These necklaces are best paired with simple yet stunning earrings. Since the necklaces are layered you don’t want something that’s too distracting. Having framed earrings or teardrop earrings will ease the flow of accessories from top-to-toe.
Subtle bling
If huge, bulky necklaces aren’t your thing, go for everyday elegance.
Although they are small and not as attention-grabbing as statement or layered necklaces, they add a pinch of glitz and glam to your outfit.
Let your ears make a statement
If your neck tends to get all red and itchy through the day, skip the necklace and make a statement with your earrings. Think drop earrings of all sorts – beads, fluff and diamante. If your workplace is more formal, go for simple drop earrings or mismatched ones to add sophistication in the slightest way.
Stack ’em up
Stacking your jewellery adds a touch of glam without being too attention-seeking during work hours. Statement rings typically have insects or animals on them, or floral motifs which speak for themselves – so go easy on the rest of your arm candy.
If you can, get a set of rings so you can choose to double up the number of rings on one finger, spread it out or just wear different rings on different days.
Arm candy
Compared to earrings or rings, wearing watches and bracelets add something a little more elegant to your outfit. You could go for the oh-so trendy gold wrist watch, or simple chain bracelets.
Bold lips and winged eyes
When we say bold, we mean anything that isn’t a nude or blush pink. Go for fuschia, reds or even fall colours like deep burgundy. While they make you feel more confident in the day, they make you more glamorous and sophisticated at night. Plus, they give you an Old Hollywood vibe.
A simple eyelook will do. A burnt orange or mauve pink on the lids, blended out and eyeliner that’s not too thick – just thin enough to add some flair when you flutter your lashes.
Simply line your eyes if you’re in a rush, but if you’ve some time to spare, draw on a simple winged eyeliner. Pop your cheekbones with a little bronzer and highlighter and you’re good to go!