Dressing For Occasions: What To Wear From Work To After Hours

Searching for suitable work wear can be extremely frustrating, in fact so disheartening that you start to dislike shopping and we really can’t have that.

At work no matter what your job, comfort is first and foremost. Looking well is an added bonus and it can be achieved with minimal effort.  

For many of us, networking and meeting people after work is a necessary part of the job.

It can be awkward and tiring to get home and change before heading out again so the following tips should make life a little bit easier…

Invest In Your Accessories

It’s easy underestimate the value of a bright neckpiece or jewelled clutch. Pieces like these are a talking point and can prove the perfect icebreaker for that client you were hoping to impress. Not only that, a statement piece transforms your outfit in an instant. Colour, frills, embroidery and fringing are everywhere of late. Even if you just buy one piece, you can recycle it time and time again with different outfit combinations.

Think Tailored

If a piece is properly cut it has the power to completely change your figure. Lumps and bumps are disguised in a cleverly cut power dress while a tailored pencil skirt will highlight your best bits. These items don’t have to be expensive either. The high street is producing gorgeous pieces of late, visit New Look and Penneys for blazers and pencil skirts that will impress. If you have a little more cash to spare, try Zara and Topshop for peg leg trousers and cropped bouclè Chanel esque jackets. Wearing easy to match separates mean you’re ready to head out immediately after you’ve clocked off.

Sharp Shoes

Shoes are another way of quickly changing up your work attire. Flashy flats can be picked up in any shop from the ever reliable Penneys to the pricier high street shops. Glitter, studs and embellishments are everywhere this season. If you feel you need a heel, the Chelsea boot is a godsend. There are a variety of style and colours available, but tan is a good choice as it can be teamed with pretty much everything. There are also some dressier options available without going too high which can be a recipe for disaster, depending on the situation.

Elegant Outerwear

Choose your outerwear carefully. Given that it’s winter your coat is the first thing people will see. How you dress says a lot about you and if you’re attending a work event, you want to give the best impression possible. There are so many options this season from oversized to pink, tartan to biker… we’re spoilt for choice. If possible, keep a tailored black blazer close to hand for a well cut jacket is the simplest way to polish off any outfit.

So there you are, a few ideas to keep in mind when stressing about what to wear to an after work event. If you have anything to add, be sure to let us know.

Main Image: Varsity jacket €3, cable knit jumper €17, blouse €13 and necklace €6, all at Penneys