Mums, dress like you mean business.

Many women returning to work or starting their own business often struggle with their working wardrobe.  After having child the body changes, many women struggle to dress for their new bodies.  Clothes need to be practical, durable and most of stylish and comfortable. 

Style and grooming are the packaging of your personal brand. You are representing yourself be it in your own company or at work amongst colleagues and clients. Your clothes should present you in a way that that invites trust and credibility.  Your dress should be an extension of your personality. Appearance makes a significant impact and credibility is influenced by first impressions are lasting impressions, and you never get a second chance to make that first impression. Yes, it’s true that what’s in the inside of a person - personality is important, however in the merry go round of the business world it doesn’t stop long enough for people to find out what makes a person tick.

Tips for your working wardrobe

 1.  Buy what works for you! – Think about where you work.  If you are working from home or not meeting clients everyday do you really need to buy two piece suit? You will need to buy business outfits for when you are meeting clients, networking etc.

2.  Buy the right size for right now – Nothing is worse than seeing a woman dressed in clothes that are too small.  Hoping that she will loose weight. If you havent gone back to your pre-baby weight and gained a few pounds you will need to have some business clothes in your new size, this includes lingerie. Too small clothes that are bursting at the seems do not send out the right impression. Don’t get hung up on the size in the label, manufacturers are known for not adhering to standard sizing. Buy clothing that fits you well and it will not only make you look better, it will last longer.  If you do loose weight a good tailor can make alterations.

3.  Quality over quantity. When purchasing business clothes always think of investment. Think about the quality of the fabric, how well they are made, this is because a good tailor can make alterations on quality made clothes. If you are on a tight budget buy quality key pieces such as dresses, trousers and jackets, wait for the sales your budget will stretch further.  Look at fabric, buy wool over polyester, wool and polyester mix, lined skirts and dresses.  Think about cost per wear.  If you buy separates such as jackets these can be worn over trousers, skirts and dresses even jeans for business casual. Spend a little more, go for a fitted style.

4.  Purchase for multi-season-  Layering will stretch your budget. Try to purchase fabrics that are multi-seasonal. Light weight clothing that you can layer, such as cardigans that can be worn under suit jackets when it gets chilli and can be removed when the temperature increases.  A cardigan can also be worn over a smart dress or skirt for business causal days.

5.  Remember the basics – Suits, dresses and separates can form the foundation of a great working wardrobe. Don't try to build a wardrobe around the "trend of the moment". When the trend passes, you'll look dated.  You can purchase ‘on trend’ pieces like a blouse or accessories but don’t go the ‘on trend’ outfit. Purchase basic building pieces to build your wardrobe and you'll be able to mix and match pieces to create lots of different looks with a minimal investment.

6.  Dry clean or washable- Most clothes can be put in the washing machine but check the labels before purchasing. Your business clothes should be presentable and stain free.  Not so easy with little ones stick fingers, so think about the durability and cost of care when purchasing. On a tight budget you don’t want to have expensive dry cleaning bills.

7.  Accessorise with style – This is how you can make your wardrobe stretch. Every wardrobe needs a certain investment in accessories, use of scarves, jewellery, handbags, hosiery, shoes and hats can transform ordinary clothing into something extraordinary. Combining smart accessories with a basic wardrobe ensures you'll always look coordinated and polished, not thrown-together or haphazard. Accessories can take a daytime work outfit to an evening work function or out with friends without having to go home and change. You may be asked to attend a function at the last moment. Don’t panic about, have some basic accessories in your desk drawer, even changing the colour of your tights.

Want to be that woman with amazing style who people are always complimenting? Struggling to find your unique sense of style, outfits that suit you and your personality.  Let me help you.

Get your free  Consultation and exclusive eBook  “The Secrets To Looking And Feeling More Confident Without Dieting: 30 Top tips To a Better ‘YOU’!” contact Viv@clothes4realwomen.com

 

www.clothes4realwomen.com Bespoke Personal Styling Concierge Service helps busy women who need help and cannot afford to make mistakes.  Together we can develop your unique sense of style.