Officewear Essentials to Include in Your Corporate Wardobe Budget

Thu, 27 Aug 09

When you shop, look for quality, versatility and sophistication. Splurge on items if they're high quality. If you invest in well-made pieces, they'll last for years. It's the quality that matters not quantity.

The necessity of a classic white shirt is an understatement. If you want to look smart casual, then wear it with nice tailored trousers or a pencil skirt. Wear the white shirt with a pantsuit and you will get an undoubtedly strict business look. Follow these tips and you will become the style icon of your office.

Once you have your staples, focus on the little extras. Forget i Phones and Blackberries - lint rollers and irons are this season's best business tools. Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed and in good condition. Taking care of your clothes will bring your look together and lend sophistication - no matter how much you paid for your wardrobe.

Below is a list of ten corporate wardrobe essentials for men and women, plus some tips on how to wear them.

10 basic 'must haves' for a women's corporate wardrobe
1. A classic white shirt always looks smart - for added chic get French cuffs to go with some cute cufflinks.

2. A simple flat-front black pant - high waisted if you so desire

3. A straight skirt hemmed just below the knee is flattering - high-waisted for more flair if you dare

4. A shirtdress - these are just great! They're easy because you don't have to worry about matching it with anything except accessories.

5. A shift dress, fitted and sleeveless - it's feminine and will still keep you boardroom-appropriate. Work the look by adding a plain business shirt and leather belt.

6. A matching suit in charcoal or black. If you're going to invest in a suit, treat yourself to a made to measure one and ensure you get the perfect fit. What you'll get out of it will be well worth it.

7. A fine-knit vest or waistcoat; try using colour - one that suits you rather than plain black or neutral

8. A shirt in a flattering colour, stipe pattern or with a unique contrast.

9. A classic shoe: I recommend every woman own a pair of classic black pumps, which lend polish to any outfit. Keep a brown, taupe or tan pair of heels on hand too. Nude heels are great for matching with almost any colour, and in a knee length pencil skirt or dress they add length to your legs.

10. A black or neutral bag: With black shoes, it's best to go with a black bag or if you tend to wear earthy colours than a tan or neutral bag would be wise; look for a simple style that's not too oversized. To create ultimate professionalism choose a briefcase.

10 basic 'must haves' for a man's corporate wardrobe

1. A crisp white shirt always looks smart - for added sophistication get French cuffs to go with some suave cufflinks

2. A simple flat-front black pant in classic or slim fit - get the cut that's most flattering for yourself

3. A matching suit in charcoal or black. If you're going to invest in a suit, treat yourself to a made to measure one and ensure you get the perfect fit. What you'll get out of it will be well worth it.

4. A fine-knit pullover; try using a bit of colour - one that suits you rather than plain black or neutral

5. A shirt in a flattering colour you tend to wear the most, or with a nice stripe or check patter or with a unique contrast.

6. Maintain the look of your shirt and keep your collar firm with some stainless steel collar stays.

7. A few ties, each that will match with several shirts in your wardrobe.

8. Classic Italian tapered shoes, including loafers and lace ups. A black pair is the obvious choice but you should also have a brown or tan pair on hand. The shoes on man are very important so take care in keeping them scuff free and polished at all times.

9. A pair of cufflinks in your most commonly worn colour, but you really can't go wrong with a pair of silver cufflinks in a rhodium or titanium.

10. To finish, a suit wallet looks best when you're all corporate ready in your attire. Keep the bulk down with a quality suit wallet and minimal keys on your key ring.