bizMe

As a male fashion writer, I am often asked what I think of runway looks that many women would deem “inappropriate” for a business setting.

First of all, the looks presented on the runway are ideas not rules. Secondly, we all have choices in the way we present ourselves to our customers, colleagues, and the world at large. Thirdly, I believe that many women fall into the rut of just merely looking bland at the office to avoid any conflict in the male/female arena.

While I agree that appropriate is in the eye of the beholder, there are many ways to incorporate looks seen in high fashion magazines, and on the runway into the lives of real, professional women. Let’s look at some of the top trends from the Spring 2010 Collections shown at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. We’ll pull out useful tips on how you can adapt and add them in to the mix of your wardrobes.

Monochromatic

Monochromatic literally means the perception of having all one color or tone. The picture from image.net taken during the spring shows in Bryant Park is of model Dale Haddon, looking quite fabulous AND appropriate in her mono ensemble. The dress is body skimming, knee length, with a nice v-neckline that isn’t too low. She has it paired with a cardigan sweater in lightweight merino wool in a complementary tone. The leather belt is also in a complementary tone. Notice I said complementary, not matching. She looks fresh and professional at the same time. The whimsical touch of her beige/taupe pumps with black adornment is the perfect way to enhance her colorful ensemble. This type of look can be done with any number of color combinations, like greens, reds, and blues. These may seem extreme, but adding a little color is definitely preferable to the bland beige, grey, black, or brown that is de rigueur for office attire.

Separates

Who said that every suit you own must be worn with the jacket, skirt, slacks, in order to make a statement. To me that look seems very 1980’s “working girl”, that went out with the pantyhose, white socks and sneakers commuter look. To invigorate your current suits, try breaking them up into separates instead of wearing them together. Invest in a few pieces that will make a statement when paired with your old stand by suits. I think a red blazer, or a deep plum or some other color that almost anyone can wear would be my first choices. Not only are they more interesting for you, but will definitely make you stand out from the pack in a positive way. Just be sure that the item has a great fit, and is the proper length for your figure. Spending a little more will definitely allow you to purchase something that has more detail in it, like a peplum, or defined waistline. Boxy blazers to the back of the line please! Consider wearing a cardigan with your suit components to soften the look a little as well. There are so many choices, just make sure it is of the highest quality, and the closure lays flat when buttoned. Michelle Obama is famous for using a cardigan to accent both dresses and blouse and slacks. The days of looking mannish are over ladies! A truly powerful woman, knows that she looks good and isn’t afraid of commanding attention.