Do you spend hours dreaming up looks that edge on the side of eccentric and ridiculous? If so, there’s nothing wrong with that, but most high fashion looks are not suited for the average office.
It’s true that many studies prove fashion and performance have a positive correlation, but how do you balance your love of eccentricity with work-appropriate looks?
While we don’t have all the answers, here are six ways you can combine high-fashion with office-appropriate attire.
1. Colorful and Bright Shoes
A simple and effective way to show your personality in your clothing is through your shoes. If you work in an office, throw on a pair of colorful flats or sneakers. You can choose an animal print pattern for one day, then show up to work wearing chunky sneakers the next.
So long as you can comfortably complete tasks while donning the shoes, the creative license is yours.
Bright pink combat boots are a great example of balancing eccentricity with function. If you work in an office, the splash of pink helps you show off without being tacky. If your job has you moving and grooving, the boots will give you support and cute looks simultaneously.
2. Oversized Boyfriend Shirts
If you’re looking to add some comfort to your fashion, oversized boyfriend shirts could be right up your alley. Not only do they look adorable, but they also give you a level of flair that isn’t too intense.
The beauty of boyfriend shirts is that you can continue the trend no matter which season it is. Long-sleeved boyfriend shirts can help keep you warm in the winter with the addition of a jacket. For summer, on the other hand, going short-sleeved helps keep the sweat to a minimum.
3. Faux Fur Accessories
While traditional fur is never a good fashion idea, faux fur has been on the rise for a while. But, rather than walking into the office with a huge fake fur coat, donning accessories is a better call.
Wearing a pair of chunky and fuzzy earrings to the office will draw attention without judgment. You could also wear furry bracelets or headbands to maintain a taste of eccentricity.
If you feel like it, don the faux fur coat and rock it to the office. It will look incredible with your favorite shades and a cup of coffee. Just make sure that you have a safe place to store it.
4. Clear Plastic Tops
Clear plastic has been a trend in the high-fashion world for a while, but it has only recently transitioned to everyday use. Plastic tops combine fun with fashion, but wearing one alone is not office appropriate.
That’s where layering comes in. Try wearing a bold-colored shirt or graphic tee under the clear plastic top to make a statement without attracting the wrong attention in the office.
The possibilities with a clear plastic top are nearly endless. You can purchase the top in a variety of colored tinges, depending on the mood. For example, you could pair a red-hued clear plastic top with a pretty pink top, red Converse, and white jeans for Valentine’s day. With this, you’ll balance fashion and practicality at the office.
5. Colorful Stockings
Stockings are a simple way to add a pop of color to an outfit. You can buy them in a variety of colors, from black to teal and every shade in between. The beauty of stockings is that you can pair them with a variety of outfits.
Traditionally, the accessory works well under pencil skirts and dresses, but don’t let that limit you. You can also pair stockings with khaki or tailored shorts.
6. Berets, Beanies, and Floppy Hats
Your hat of choice will depend on your office. If you spend most of your time at a desk, going with a beret could be the choice for you. You can go for a traditional black, something more colorful, or choose a fabric like satin.
Beanies also work well in office situations, though they are more suited to the winter months. Floppy hats are an incredible choice if you’re going to be working outside or moving throughout the day.
Find Your Balance
You don’t have to give up your love of fashion just because you work in an office or corporate job. You can still be a bit quirky while at work. The goal is to find a balance between your love of eccentricity and your practical needs on the job. Mix and match with a friend before you hit the clock to get the balance right!