DEAR Mattie:
What should I wear to work? Styling in Edgemont
Dear Edgemont:
This is a very exciting time for a professional wardrobe. The look this season is made up of many separates that, put together, look like a modern suit.
The pieces should match and create a silhouette that has a uniform look. Uniform means evenly balanced with colour, shape and texture. Although you will be picking through separates, try everything on to see what combinations of pieces look good on you. Mixing and matching can be fun, and you will end up with a versatile wardrobe.
This is the season of the skirt. I love skirts and you will be able to find them in many lengths, fabrics and colours. Stock up!
Hemlines are up and down. You decide which length you are most comfortable in.
The silhouette this season is not stick straight. It is tailored with room to breathe to accommodate the natural body.
The simple pencil skirt can be found in lace with slight ruching at the waistline to allow movement and shape.
There are full skirts that have loose pleats from the waistline that look relaxed and fluid. There are skirts with wide pleats from the top down, in a soft fabric, that have a fly-away impression. Even though these skirts have a very feminine suggestion, they are still tough enough for the office as they pack a strong fashion punch.
Tops are fantastic this season. Their shapes match perfectly with any skirt.
Blouses are soft in shape, with and without patterns. Even though patterns may not flatter every body, I am seeing patterns that work and have a modern edge. Try them on, you might be surprised.
Blouses have a sophisticated look. There are ruffles and pleats that add style and finesse. There are also blouses that have a peasant shape, with ties at the top and at the sleeves. There are many options, as blouses are sleeveless, cap-sleeved and three quarters. Most blouses have a shorter sleeve.
Shirts are less flamboyant to match the textured skirts. They have the classic styling with subtle vertical pinstripes. The collar may be slightly rounder, longer or pointier. Many shirts will have the option of a shorter sleeve with a tab inside to roll up the sleeve above the elbow and button it.
Blazers are necessary as an outer layer. They also add a professional look to your overall appearance. They have an hourglass shape, which is cinched toward the waistline, or they are cropped to allow for a cinched waistline that the skirt provides.
Many sleeveless blouses are paired with cardigans, some patterned with large abstract flowers. Also, a thin belt around the cardigan creates the cinched hourglass shape, still creating a professional suit with style that is not traditional.
Trousers have a new shape. They are straight or narrow, and some are cropped. The most popular colours are black and camel. Trousers are simple this season, as the skirt is the main attraction. With a simpler pant, ladies can choose flamboyant tops.
Once you have put your suit together, give yourself a good look in the mirror. You want to look fashionably strong with soft tailoring. This is the look of urban dressing.
Adieu
Mattie
Mattie a la Mode is a monthly fashion advice column. Mattie is a freelance writer and fashion expert. She can be reached via e-mail: mattiealamode@ gmail.com. Or visit her blog mattiealamode.com.
