Who agrees that workwear can be a bit daunting? Like, really… the same “business casual” mantra is amplified to the umpteenth power by management teams across the globe. But, what exactly does “business casual” include? In my office, you see the same outfits, repeatedly, which always involve black fitted trousers, black flat shoes and some kind of company top.
Lately, I’ve been on a workwear strike. I don’t know what took me so long to realize how influential workwear can be in your day-to-day productivity. While straying away from the business casual “basics”, I’m on a quest to infuse a bit more pizzazz and personality into my own professional wardrobe.
In a recent office look, I took the leap in mixing prints. I uplifted an oversized, thrifted Liz Claiborne button-down with a pair of thrifted charcoal and ivory check pants. Although you cannot see, I also donned a pair of black, pointed toe flats with gold accents. Shoutout to my Coach purse making an appearance as well. Check out a similar finds below:
This ‘fit was far from planned. I found myself sifting through my closet, searching for an ounce of inspiration to make me feel every bit of polished. The entire day I wore it, I gave Olivia Pope and Jenna Lyons – all mixed into one! Mixed prints is an unconventional approach to combining your tried-and-true wardrobe heroes; yet, the technique also breathes new life into pieces that may challenge you.
Quick tip: Mix prints with similar color patterns for a more streamlined look that doesn’t clash.
On that note, let your fashion flag fly (even at your place of employment). You never know who may take note and you never know who you may inspire. To all my corporate employees, sound off below on how you garner inspiration for your outfits. What are your workwear essentials? And, how do you style them?
“Fashion should be a form of escapism, and not a form of imprisonment.”
-ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
ESMESHA CAMPBELL - Lifestyle, Fashion Culture, and Beauty 