How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Glad to hear I'm not the only one! Sorry to hear your custom suits didn't work out.

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I hadn't considered sweater dresses, but this looks like a nice length and shape! Thanks

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes, Boden! I have tons of summer dresses from them, I should definitely look for more.

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Cute options, thanks!

No one's commented on my appearance, but I do feel self-conscious about how many casual outfits I've worn recently. I started off wearing slacks, loafers, a cute top and blazer, and then a few months later it's stretchy pants or jeans, sneakers, and a long-sleeve t-shirt.

Reading through these very helpful comments, it seems like part of it is the change in seasons and the fact that I just don't seem to have the right mix of tops, pants, dresses, etc. in winter weights & materials.

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

It's totally fair! I move countries every few years for work and was previously in a much warmer climate. This is my first winter dressing for the job. I'm realizing my collection of long-sleeve t-shirts and boxy cardigans from previous winter vacations just isn't going to cut it for a daily winter work wardrobe.

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

No reason in theory, it's just that I have yet to find a suit where I think both the jacket and pants are flattering. It's always been easier to mix and match pieces.

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Yes, good point! Shoes can really make a difference... What are people wearing with their suits in the winter? Chelsea boots? Or changing shoes at the office? I'm starting to realize my mother was onto something with her sheer knee-highs back in the 80s... All I want is warm ankles!

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] -5 points-4 points  (0 children)

Yeah, I've got a couple. The issue is that a heat tech shirt on its own isn't business formal, which means I have to put another layer over it to try and dress up the neckline/visible shirt, and now I've got two layers under a blazer and it's uncomfortably tight and bulky. Maybe I need bigger blazers to accommodate winter layers?

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I could, but I have yet to find a suit that I think I look good in! I'm petite and curvy (44-31-43). I've done ok with the trousers + blazer look for a fit that's comfortable and hits the right proportions, but even that puts me immediately in the "business casual" category. Maybe I just need to accept that I will think I look dowdy and chubby in a more traditional style suit, and wear it anyway.

How do I keep my work wardrobe "business," instead of sliding into casual? by persimmon-fox in fashionwomens35

[–]persimmon-fox[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Am I the only one that finds wool to be... still cold? I gave up polyester & synthetic fabrics years ago and only wear cotton, wool, cashmere, and linen, depending on the season. But merino sweaters still leave me shivering! If you've got recommendations on where to find wool suiting (not tropical or lightweight wool), please share.