The fashion industry is seeing a revival in two separate eras of clothing, this Spring of 2012, for women’s workplace attire. These eras are the 1920’s and the 1960’s. You can incorporate key concepts from these eras, into your work wardrobe.
The 1920’s have been romanticized and are often thought of as a time for glamorous Flapper dresses. There are key features of a Flapper dress that can be incorporated into the working wardrobe. For example head bands will be very in. These headbands will be more 1920’s Flapper influenced. Thick headbands that are solid colored or beaded are good examples. Beads and fringe will become more popular. Beads can be used in long strings to accentuate outfits. Fringe can be used on skirts, blouses, or even jackets to bring a 1920’s look to the garb. Look for low waist lines on dresses, to bring the classic 1920’s look into the workplace. Even a bob haircut would be great to add to any 1920’s outfit.
Colors can be more subtle and softer during winter and spring months. Look for a lot of neutral tones like beige and white to stay with the season color schemes. During the spring and fall seasons you can keep to more vibrant tones as the weather changes.
The 1920’s may not be the right influence for everyone, when it comes to their work environment. However as mentioned, the 1960’s will also be making a comeback. The 1960’s is thought of as a more playful and swinging era. It is also portrayed as a very colorful era. However, there are a few token concepts that can be carried over into the workplace in 2012.
Abstract geometric patterns can accentuate a dress. Lace can dress up any outfit and bring a 1960’s feel to the office. Peter pan collars can be used more often. Full circle skirts or pencil skirts will be reintroduced as options. Low riding belts will also be more acceptable in the fashion world.
For those who want a pair of 1960’s pants, try a high waist cropped pants to be in style. Bulky more masculine looking shoes will also be more in style. Maybe look for penny loafers to pull off the bulky shoe look. Swing coats and capes will be introduced during the colder fall and winter months. These fashions will be great during the summer and fall months because of their more vibrant coloring schemes. However, neutral tones can also pull off these fashions.
Depending on your workplace clothing standards, only some of these recommendations may work for you. As a general rule, try to stay away from extremely short skirts or plunging necklines. Each work place is different. But, always adhere to your employment dress code. Purses and bags are not off limits. If your workplace is very strict on dress code, try to stick with accessory use. For example use a fancy handbag, in order to accentuate your style. You can use any of the concepts mentioned to stay fashionable, even if limited to your handbag.
It may be fun to jump back and forth between eras to keep your wardrobe from becoming stunted. Remember to have fun and keep your own personal style incorporated into your look. This will allow for a more unique quality, as your play with fashion your way. Good luck to all the workplace oriented Fashion Divas, in the upcoming year.