Styling Tips for Business Wear

Now that the rules of business professional and the differences between business casual have both been covered, the next step in dressing for business is how to develop your own style. People often mistake business wear to mean "boring," but there are many different ways to spice up your look for the office. The best part is that of these tips can be interchangeable between business professional and business casual so it works for both types of environments.

1. Pop of Color

While there are some basic staples you should own: a black blazer, black pencil skirt, white button down shirt, etc. that is not the only way to keep your look polished and clean. The key to making this look work is choosing to keep all other elements of your outfit neutral, so the particular article of clothing really stands out in its color.

The best part of this technique is that it works on any article of clothing you choose to highlight in the entire outfit. The pop of color can be subtle in your shoes, or even in your slacks or skirt. But the outfit really stands out with a bright blazer because blazers are commonly thought of in neutrals and blacks.

2. Textures

You'd be surprised at how easily textures can make an outfit look new and fresh. A simple black cardigan can look completely different when made by a different texture and elevate your look. This technique works well if you're the type of person who likes the neutral colors and doesn't want to experiment with color, yet keep you looking stylish.

Mixing and matching goes well with this type of clothing. I like to wear wool sweaters with slick pencil skirts. Some great textures include suede, tweed, wool, faux fur, sequins, or studs. As said before, this can apply to any article you're wearing, cardigans can be suede or your shoes can have studs. As long as they still follow the guidelines of business professional, textures are a great way to play with your office style!

3. Patterns and Prints

I'm a sucker for prints and patterns, when done well in moderation. Wearing something with prints or a pattern can really contrast the neutrality of the rest of the outfit. Again, the best way to achieve this look is to wear on one piece that has a pattern or print to be the focal point of the outfit. This can be your blazer, your dress, or even your shoes for a surprise pop. As shown above, this technique works for neutral colors if you are not one to experiment with colors. If you do try a pattern with color though, be sure to keep it minimal.

There are plenty of other tips to make your office attire look stylish and stand out. Hair, makeup, and accessories also play a factor in your professional look. These tips were just about trying something different with your clothes. Never be afraid to look in your closet for items you already have and mixing and matching. You'd be surprised at the new combinations you can make when you try to think outside of the office-cubicle-box.

Stay tuned for more posts in the #BusinessSeries all month long! Follow @RedRaiderRunway on Twitter where business inspired outfits will be retweeted for inspiration!

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