Return to Office Dilemma: Outfit Strategies
Despite our organization, culled closets, and favorites, we all wonder what to wear as
we return to the office. To avoid this, a few simple strategies get us back in the groove
of dressing for work.
High-Low: Recently, I led a community meeting requiring I project confidence while still
being accessible, given I hadn’t met many in the audience before. Therefore, I took the
“high-low” approach, pairing one item of clothing that’s refined with something more
casual. I chose Banana Republic’s Bliss Silk Top, with a pair of white jeans and a
wedge sandals. When I added jewelry and my accessories, I looked put together but
didn’t overdo it.
Power Jacket: When meeting with your boss’s boss, one the easiest strategies of
all—the power jacket, is making a roaring comeback. Historically, my favorite power
jacket has always been Valentino, but with brands like Veronica Beard, Alice & Olivia, and Balmain, there’s lots to choose from. Pairing the jacket with understated pants and a top, lets the jacket carry the outfit. The advantage here is it projects confidence
without even trying.
Monochromatic Dressing: Allows you to look put together without reflecting your
plate’s full. This can be items that are part of a capsule in your wardrobe or two items
you feel comfortable in. Using a single color creates a rich and confident look because
typically people don’t purchase the entire ensemble but likely just one piece.
What to Avoid: jeans with holes in them, dirty sneakers, t-shirts that are stretched out,
anything rayed from daily wear, and anything with a stain visible to others.
Tammy’s Truism: Pull aside 3 levels of work-ready outfits in your closet so when you’re short on time you can put them on without thinking about it. Don’t forget to include accessories.
