WORKING GIRL
When Tess McGill made the transformation from secretary to power broker in "Working Girl," she knew that one of the keys to making everyone believe that she had the chops for the job was to dress the part, and in the '80s, that meant padded shoulders in a power suit. Thankfully those days are behind us, and you can still look feminine and stylish in your office duds.
Corporate executive? Wear a shirtdress paired with a smock coat.
Advertising executive? You can get away with high-waisted city shorts or an embellished tank under a dress.
Creative genius? Go for a slouchy look with easy-fitting pants and an enormous handbag.
Big business meeting? Show your savvy with this season's it color, silver, and an A-line skirt.
On the go? Pair a cardigan with an A-line skirt and make a dash for dinner.
Donning these looks just proves that you, too, have the chops to do the job and look good at the same time. Here's how to get some of these looks.
LAIDBACK BUT LUXE
Wide-legged pants scream artist. You can make this look chic with a pair of ballet flats and a big handbag in a neutral color. Gray cardigans over chic tank tops or embellished shirts can add to the artsy look. But keep this style in neutral tones such as white, black and gray. Burberry Thoralby Stretch Cargo Pants, $275, Burberry
CREATIVE GENIUS
Admittedly, not everyone can wear shorts to work, even on a Friday. This look calls for teaming chic short jackets or cropped sweaters with the shorts and enormous beads. Or put a mini-dress or tunic together with leggings and ballet flats for a practical look that can hide your least favorite attributes. Mulberry Linen Blend Tailored Shorts, $395, www.mulberry.com
FROM DAY TO NIGHT
This look starts with a shimmering silver jacket. Pair it with an A-line skirt. Then come the clinchers: a belt and platform shoes. This ensemble looks good moving from the office to after-hour cocktails and gives you a definite in-the-moment feel. Lela Rose Metallic Tweed Jacket, $1,095, www.net-a-porter.com
DRESSING UP
Yes, the dress is the cornerstone of any office wardrobe, but a few additions can update this look. Pair it with an embellished T-shirt or add a pair of platform shoes for a fresh look. Or top your favorite dress with a menswear-inspired jacket. And you can never have too many accessories to change the look of a dress. Look for long necklaces or even scarves to give even the most basic of black dresses an update. Diane von Furstenberg Aldara Matte Dress, $325, www.shopbop.com
KNIT WIT
As the weather warms, offices turn chilly even though the sun bakes down outside. The practical answer: layers. Unusual buttons and details on the cuffs can provide an interesting solution if your layers have become boring. A swinging A-line skirt gives this look updated and office-appropriate smarts. Look for details such as cuffs or embellishments on the sleeves to let a bit of your own personality shine through. See by Chloë Pocket Detail Cardigan, $675, Talulah G
