Juggling work, home and family life can often leave little time to put thought into your personal style. However, a well-stocked wardrobe filled with timeless pieces and a simple dressing process can ensure you always look polished and put-together no matter what the day holds.
From smart-casual outfits for brunch dates to elegant evening ensembles, our fashion for busy ladies guide has you covered. Investing in the right clothing and styling is key to creating a sophisticated and flexible professional look that will take you from the office to dinner with the girls.
Look at your closet and note the pieces that you wear on repeat, whether it’s skinny jeans or fitted button down shirts. These are your signature styles, and finding a way to dress them up for work is the secret to looking chic when you’re running errands or working from home.
Intricate buttons and hard-to-reach centre back zips are a fashion no-no for busy women, so opt for smart lounge pants with elastic waists or fitted dresses with easy-slip-on fastenings that make getting dressed faster and easier. Sticking to neutral colours like black, navy blue and tan will allow you to build outfits that are versatile and will always look chic.
The quickest and easiest way to elevate your everyday look is to add a pop of colour with a pair of shoes or a bold necklace or watch. Choosing neutral hues that go with your complexion will help you to achieve a more natural and flattering aesthetic, while keeping accessories minimal will prevent the look from becoming too overbearing or distracting.
When shopping for clothes, be sure to consider the fabric and fit of each piece. A sloppy-looking top or dress will never make you look polished, so choose a shape that fits your body well and opt for fabrics that feel soft on the skin like linen, silk or cotton. This will ensure you stay comfortable throughout the day.
A fantastic coat or jacket can bring any outfit to life – and keep you warm in the winter. A wool topcoat or blazer can be worn with slim jeans and a white shirt for a sophisticated business look, while a lightweight trench or duster will pair perfectly with skinny jeans and a white t-shirt for a casual dinner date.
A good quality pair of tailored trousers are an essential item for any busy woman’s wardrobe. They can be paired with everything from a crisp shirt and loafers to a camisole or fitted blouse, and can be easily dressed up for eveningwear with strappy heels and bold jewellery. To save time in the mornings, try putting together a week’s worth of outfits on Sunday night so you can just grab and go.