{Guest Post} Dress for Success: The New Power Dressing

For some people power dressing conjures up an image of shoulder pads, dowdy suits and mannish footwear. But women trying to get ahead at work need not dress like their male counterparts in order to be taken seriously and get noticed. These days you can command respect with your image and remain stylish and ladylike at the same time, you just need to know what to wear. Whether for an interview, or for wearing day-to-day, your wardrobe can help you on your way to that dream role.

Dressing for success involves projecting an image of where you want to be, not necessarily where you are at right now. But without the salary to match your aspirations this can be quite a challenge. There are many ways you can get the look of success without the bank balance that goes with it, by shopping savvy, having a good capsule wardrobe and knowing how to accessorize. George at Asda is a fab place to find great quality work wear that combines fashion, professionalism and value for money.

The dress

If you know how to wear them you only need a couple of work dresses in your work wear collection. Try getting a few colours of plain dresses and accessorizing to make them look like a different outfit each time. Add a statement dress to mix things up a little, and throw it on when you want to be a little less conservative. Go for classic knee length dresses that can be worn in the winter with tights, or in the summer with bare legs, without looking too daring. Check out George range of work dresses for some inspiration and start building the foundations of your power-dressing wardrobe today.

 

The shoes

If you can wear heels, then definitely go for it, as these are the ultimate in dressing for success. Find a pair that are super comfortable, as you will be spending a lot of time in them. You really only need a couple of pairs of shoes specifically for work, so make sure they match the colour palate of your wardrobe. In the summer when your feet swell and it’s just too hot, or if you just can’t walk in anything higher than trainers then go for some stylish flats in a neutral tone so they go with everything. A little embellishment, like a bow or some sparkle, is great as it adds character to your outfit and a dash of style to a classic look.

The suit

Whether it’s for an interview, or a big meeting, at some point you will need to wear a suit. Work with your body shape and don’t try to cover up feminine curves with a boxy suit jacket and ill-fitting skirt of trousers. Go for fitted separates or don a jacket with a smart dress for the ultimate in businesswoman chic.

 

Once you have collected your wardrobe staples you can start mixing things up with necklaces, scarves and bags. You can add colour to a neutral outfit using accessories for when you want to get noticed, and go for classic alternatives when you need to be taken seriously. Have fun with your work wardrobe; after all it’s what you will be wearing for the majority of the week.

*images from pinterest