As I have discussed in past Fashion & Finance blogs for Accounting Today, it’s not always easy to navigate through the latest trends in fashion, to select what might fit into a conservative corporate environment. For those who have just entering the workforce, it’s also hard on your budget to build a solid and successful work wardrobe, as well as to say no to some of the cool trends you may see in stores.
Suiting up to fit into your corporate culture can be difficult, but you can still build your very own style that is polished, professional and in line with the personal brand you wish to communicate to your coworkers, clients and the business public. It is do-able, by carefully and sometimes even cautiously interpreting the trends you see and selecting what might work best for you.
Taking a look back at the runways of Fall Fashion Week, here are some of the trends you should expect to see hitting stores soon for the fall fashion season, as well as some ways you might be able to rock them at the office.
Shearling
If you work in a conservative field or are employed by a company with a strict corporate dress code, this trend might not be for you… except for a bit of detail or trim on a fall jacket, wrap coat (that’s another trend to look for!) or vest. You can even try a scarf as seen above, although this could be distracting, so use your best judgement. remember, outerwear that can be removed when entering the office is a great way to stay comfortable in changing weather and remain on trend. Plush and cozy, warm and inviting, shearling styles tend to return many fall seasons to keep those with changing seasons and brisker weather warm. (image found on net-a-porter.com)
Brights
It will be refreshing and invigorating to see these bright colors amongst some of the more traditional color schemes of fall. Look for pinks, greens and other brights to not only act as accent colors, but also to serve as focal points via vibrant tops, skirts, light fall coats and jackets. (images found on lemonsandloafers.com and fashiongonerogue.com)
Sweaters
Look for knit wear tops, dresses and oversized pull overs and skirts in stores and shops this fall. From traditional cardigans to knit scarves and other layering items, sweater dressing will be key this upcoming season. In a work environment, a sweater dress of the right length could be paired with black tights and polished knee length leather boots, along with a structured jacket or blazer for an office appropriate look. (images found on choies.com and laurenconrad.com)
Rave Prints
While some of what you may see on the runways might be too wild for the office, a pop of print can be fun and fashionable if it does not overpower the rest of your look. Try a colorful silk blouse in a vibrant print, paired with a dark blazer and pencil skirt to interpret the trend as career wear. A scarf could also be an easy way to dip your toe into the water and try this trend, all while staying in line with your dress code. (image found on style.com– Dries Van Noten Fall 2014 Ready-to-Wear)
Leopard Print
Just a touch of this powerful print is classy and chic. A small accessory or shoe, handbag or clutch is an easy way to interpret the trend. My favorite quote,”Leopard matches with nothing and everything.” Designers are using it in super feminine ways, so if you’re in the workplace, play it safe by selecting juts a touch of this wild print for fall. (image found on Pinterest via jcrew.com, several seasons old)
Orange
It may never be the new black, but orange is definitely a color that will look fresh for fall. Not everyone may think they’ll look good in the color, but consider there are a ton of hues and tones to choose from. Pastels are also making their way into the fall palette on some runways, so consider combining the two trends by choosing a melon or peach shade, along with browns, and other rich fall textures such as knits, suede, leather and light wool.
Retro Sixties
Sixties style dresses with simple flats or boots are just one way that some of the major fashion houses are bringing back this stylish era this fall. A way to work this trend at the office might be to select a ladylike A-line skirt in a bright color or pattern, paired with a crisp and simple button down or cardigan sweater and flats, or try a mod-inspired print dress or top under a well constructed, classic black or navy blazer. (image from elle.com)
Happy Shopping!
Emily Burns Perryman 