How to Accessorize Your Work Wardrobe - Women

Remember that casual wear doesn't always work for the office, and accessories that look smashing for a night on the town may not be appropriate from 9 to 5.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Briefcases
• Hair Accessories
• Handbags
• Hosiery
• Silk Scarf
• Women's Closed-toed Shoes
• A Nice Women's Watches
• Bracelets
• Casual Earrings
• Diamond Earrings
• Jewelry
• Pearl Necklaces

1. Choose shoes, jewelry, watches and belts from such classic materials as leather, silver and gold.

2. Individualize yourself. Suits and pantsuits are traditional office wear for women, but you can spice them up with a personal trademark. A slim silver bangle, small hoop earrings or a silver hair clip can be elegant additions to your black pantsuit.

3. Select an unobtrusive watch that goes with a variety of outfits. Ideally, it should have simple lines and a neutral band.

4. Wear classic jewelry. A pearl necklace, diamond studs, jade bangles or small beads add an air of sophistication.

5. Make sure the metal of your accessories matches: Keep it all silver or all gold.

6. Clip your hair up using leather, metal or shell clips and bands. They will keep your hair neat as well as adding style.

7. Wear neutral panty hose or socks.

8. Make sure your shoes match your bag. Brown, black, gray and tan palettes dress up everything.

9. Stick to low heels and classic shoes for comfort and an understated look.

Tips & Warnings

• Observe what your colleagues are wearing. Follow the spirit, but don't be intimidated by it.
• Leather shoes are still classic, but high-tech microfibers look and wear great, too. A touch of fun in your shoes, such as a big buckle or a funky heel, can be stylish and not over-the-top.
• Your nails and hair color are accessories, too. Choose according to the work environment.
• Visible tattoos and face piercings are inappropriate for the office.

[denisepapas]

on 4/28/2009 I agree that accessories will add flair to some businesswear- which tends to be boring. Beautifying yourself is beautifying the office. Everyone appreciates a well-dressed coworker. Great article!

[CareerFashion]

on 11/22/2008 Just my opinion: this is very good advice for a conservative person who wants to be unobtrusive. But if you're not, then you need to use the accessories to express yourself. The business suit can't really be changed; it is what it is. But in the accessories - that's where you show your very own, individual, unique, fashion personality!

[JRAPPYELY]

on 5/28/2007 To look professional without looking old beyond your years, be sure to look for modern styling in your suit. Also consider wearing seperates. As long as they are not too outlandish. Try a solid brown or navy pencil skirt with a pale blue silk blouse and a brown pinstripe fitted blazer. Add pizzaz with faux croc pumps and a great bag. Stick to classic pieces but do go too classic. Be sure to mix in trendy pieces to keep it fresh and young. Be sure your clothes fit you. No boxy jackets. Tailoring makes a statement. It is inexpensive and makes you look so much more professional.

on 8/8/2006 Trendy accessories may be ideal for an industry that thrives on artistic creative expression. However in many industries that encounter the public, avoiding trendy accessories and clothing is the key to communicating your company's message, "We're serious about serving you."

On the flip side, be ready for good-natured ribbing about job interviews if you out-dress your co-workers. Not that that's a bad thing...

on 3/26/2006 I like patterned tights (especially fine fishnet) with a dark colored skirt or neat shorts or 3/4 pants. Bright pointy shoes with a low kitten heel (I have a coral colored pair), spice up anything dark and plain without going overboard. I also love the idea of a scarf, which can add a splash of color, or a big chunky necklace under a V scoop neck top or shirt (I got so many compliments when I wore my multi-stranded necklace with a white shirt), or a pair of dangling beaded earrings. Anything sparkly does not belong in the office though!