Yes folks, I’m an accountant. Some wouldn’t believe it because of my impeccable fashion sense and innate ability to communicate effectively with others, but yes, I’m an accountant (technically an auditor). Accounting, as you can imagine, is a more conservative kind of office, but that doesn’t mean I don’t dress up each day. Sure, I may have to forgo strange prints and textures for classic cuts and colors, but fashion is always an option.
If you’re going into a more conservative field and think you can’t dress fashionably, boy do I have some good news for you. Get ready, because I’m about to share the tips I’ve used for years for fashionable conservative work wear.
Wear pops of bold color.
In some offices, you may be limited to a more conservative color palette, but at most large firms, it’s an anthing-goes kind of color scheme. Instead of going too crazy, opt for a pop of color in a statement necklace or a bold color blouse. I love wearing my favorite orange and royal blue blouses for work with neutral slacks and minimal accessories.
I’ve linked my all time favorite blouse below. It comes in so many colors and I seriously wear one of them at least twice a week. I have it in four colors (so far) but they are the perfect sleeveless blouse for work and after-hours too!
Invest in classic, good-fitting pieces.
I talked about investing in a good fitting suit before, but this goes for the rest of your office wardrobe as well. If it doesn’t fit, it won’t look good. Point blank period. Invest in pieces (especially classic pieces) like slacks, a white button down blouse, and maybe a skirt or two in basic colors that fit you really well. These will be perfect to wear with those pops of color I mentioned.
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Layer a sheer top over a solid tank.
I just started doing this with a blouse I’ve been wearing forever and I totally love how it looks. Both pieces have been in my closet for years and I’m just now starting to rock them. I struggled with how to wear these semi-sheer and sheer tops to work but when I layered them over a cami, it became both conservative and fashionable. It covered my shoulders while being perfect for hot summer days too!
Trade in Your Khakis for Bright Whites.
There’s something really cool about a bright white pair of slacks. I’m obsessed with mine! I seriously wear them all the time (even after a certain dry cleaner left them with a slight dingy twinge). If yours are dry clean only, ask your dry cleaner how often they distill their solvent. Save yourself the headache and only use a dry cleaner that responds “often.”
Accessorize with Intention.
If you opt for a more classic look, like a button down with slacks, you can go a bit nuts with the accessories. Try a statement necklace or statement earrings – even a pair of statement shoes! I love wearing my satin bow mules from Forever 21 because they’re in a neutral color with a unique detail. If you’re alread making a statement with colors, opt for more classic accessories like a simple necklace.
I personally use a Longchamp tote for work (because it matches everything) but think carefully when picking out your work bag! You want it to go with everything!
So do you have any tips that aren’t on this list? I’d love to hear them in the comments!
Outfit 1
Outfit 2
