How to maintain office chic

How to look stylish and smart in the work place

The office or work place is where we spend the vast majority of our time, where we are most likely to encounter people who we are wanting to impress; whether it be bosses, clients, or even the cute sandwich delivery boy who graces our desk everyday!

As someone who works in the fashion industry, I understand the daily challenge involved in dressing for work; however, looking stylish and smart is the key to confidence, and therefore an absolute must.

Follow these easy steps to ensure a killer outfit everyday...

Always plan your outfit the night before

There's nothing worse than realising when half way to the office, that in your half-asleep efforts to dress you are in fact wearing your 'Princess Sleepy Head' nightie rather than the vintage style t-dress from Topshop.

This also eliminates any last minute panic choices in the morning when time is not on your side. A cool, calm selection process the night before will ensure a well put-together outfit.

Embrace your iron

If you have decided to go for a fitted shirt or something suitably smart and chic, always iron it! You are not at university anymore and that 'just rolled out of bed in last night's outfit' look just doesn't cut it.

Go classic

More often then not classic choices make the best impact. A woman can't go wrong with a pencil line skirt teamed with a perfectly fitted blouse or a tailored dress. Try Zara, M&S or Topshop for the best fashion friendly selections, like the Per Una at M&S dress pictured (right).

Accessorise

Use accessories to modernise classic looks. Brighten up smart office looks with a purple patent handbag or sex up a knee length black dress with cherry red heels. Simple and smart looks can be worn a hundred different ways if you confidently team them up with statement necklaces to make that necessary nod in the direction of this season's key trends.

Always be prepared

As well as the necessary stationery and files, your desk draw should always contain all of the following: hairbrush; spare hair tie or clip; deodorant (a trip on the tube in rush hour is enough to make even the daintiest of ladies perspire); lipstick; breath mints; and, if you are a fan of the ballet pumps when traveling to work, a pair of heels. This emergency kit will prepare you for any unscheduled client visit or last minute meeting with the boss.