PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE YASEMIN FOR OLIVIA CASHMORE
WORDS BY IZZY WIGHT
“Attire for the studio and beyond.”
More often than not, it’s hard for creative types to feel comfortable within the confines of the office dress code. The phrase ‘sensitive dress’ conjures up images of neutral-hued blazers, circa-2011 peplum tops and kitten heels; the uniform of a female professional performing the work.
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But it’s not 2011 anymore, and life’s too short for a work wardrobe to drive the buzz. Believe it or not, there are ways to look stylish while maintaining it only with the right amount of seriousness. Below, six Australian and New Zealand fashion designers give their advice on dressing (well) for an office job.
Jamie Nelson, founder of Nelson Made
Make sure your office wardrobe includes a good quality, versatile blazer – you can throw it over anything and feel polished. I also recommend investing in well-made, comfortable shoes that make you feel invincible. Regardless of your look, you want to wear a stunning pair of shoes that make you feel like you own the room!
@nelson.made
Maddy Alexis, Junior Designer at Lee Mathews
I like to think of work clothes as a bit of a uniform. It’s tonal, minimal, and usually includes tailored pants and a chunky shoe. I’m always reaching for tailored black pants; Our Mortimer Pleat Front Trousers are a staple in my wardrobe. I love pairing these with a tank or a crisp white shirt. A tailored blazer always makes me feel put together, I love these slightly oversized ones for a less corporate look.
@leemathewsau
Liam Bowden, founder and creative director of Deadly Ponies
I favor a clip piece that is functional but looks good. Living a busy life, I think it’s important to have a seasonless piece of clothing that can hold everything you need (and a few things you don’t). Mr. Breton is our newest bag. It hits all those notes and is designed specifically for the working woman, with multiple compartments and plenty of space for your tech. It is perfect for the office.
@deadlyponies
Emily Mae Poole, founder of Studio Marlene
Dressing up for the studio and beyond – for me, it’s all about that moment of togetherness. I like to start with a simple base – a cotton top, pants and leather shoes. Then I’ll add a color (if I’m feeling it) and an accessory.
Meet the wardrobe companions that give you a great edge when you need it and the pieces you reach for when you want to tone it down. Here I’m wearing a Studio Marlene shirt in cobalt, Studio Marlene pants sample (these will be available soon), my Miu Miu bag, Prada biker boots and vintage statement earrings.
@studio.marlene
Olivia Cashmore, founder of Olivia Cashmore
We’ve come back to being comfortable in our wardrobes over the last few years – for obvious reasons. Bodies and leisure wear have become a staple. [But] as the world begins to move back into action, I think finding the balance between casual and formal is key.
A great blazer goes a long way. A blazer – because of the way it is constructed and detailed – adds ‘formality’ to any outfit. You can keep your outfit relatively simple… but once you add a blazer, you instantly feel put together. Oversized and boxy silhouettes are a great way to cool down [professional dressing] too!
I’ve always been a fan of relaxed but slightly formal trousers paired with a crisp white T-shirt or freshly pressed shirt. [It’s] My ‘I’ve made an effort, but I’m also comfortable’ look.
@olivia.cashmore
Meg Wilcher, founder of Apres Studio
Do you aim for the same dark, boring, ‘executive’, softly tailored workwear every week? Have you lost your glow? I’m here to help you all expand the tight parameters you think your dress code should adhere to in order to get the job done. I always approach the dress [for work] with layers to match my mood.
I want to feel supported [by my outfit] for the main task at hand. It’s always cold here in Melbourne, so [I usually go] for the more-is-more approach. Hot tips to leave you with: wear what makes you feel powerful, what you put on your body creates a feeling [and a] Humor. Your energy is transferable. Make people feel inspired because you are.
Easy-looking style can also be comfortable. If you feel tight and closed off, you will approach all tasks with the same mindset. If your outfit looks plain or boring, but you have an incredible coat, shoes, and bag, I truly believe that those items will take the rest of your outfit from dull to fun.
@apressstudio_
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