Dressing smart but glam

[Stainglasses]

So I’ve recently returned to work after an on off gap. I have to dress smartly and I find that in doing so I tend to look a little dowdy rather than classic. When I was younger and wearing plain clothes I think I looked classic but now not so much.

At home I’m very casual and always wear trainers and wide legged jeans and jumpers and feel fairly fresh and youthful. But try and smarten up and I don’t hit the right note. It might be the flat shoes - I’m thinking boots are a bit sexier and might improve things. Any tips for a woman getting older and not getting away with effortlessness any more??

What note are you hitting at the moment? What are you wearing?

I’d say look at a crew neck line not v necks, slouchier/wider leg trousers (instead of skirts) and colour, ie not just black with a pop of colour. Slouchier jackets too, blazers or bomber style or Chanel style. If a skirt opaque tights not thin denier. Shoes I agree are tough especially at this time of year. I look for shoes and boots with a very low heel just to escalate things slightly. Also consider jewellery which can escalate an outfit. There are loads of places that do classic with a modern twist like Mejuri, Monica Vinader, Orelia and Astrid and Miyu.

I wear fairly classic, plain clothes too.

When I need to 'level up' I do it with choice of fabric (e.g. leather, silk, cashmere) and I sharpen up my accessories and shoes. Plus hair/makeup etc.

I think it’s all about the quality of clothes, plus good bag and shoes. Spend a bit more per piece

All great advice - thank you so much

I agree, the quality of the clothes and accessories makes a difference.

Where do you currently shop, @Stainglasses?

Also, what level of formality is required for your work? Plain corporate suit or something more relaxed but still serious and professional? It may be that your current version of ‘smart’ needs a little updating?