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Staple Wardrobe Pieces for Professional Women

By Kim Appelt, Personal & Celebrity Wardrobe Stylist


You’re a modern professional woman, you’re busy and have a lot on your plate—it’s hard enough getting through a work day, let alone find the time to be fashionable. I’m here to help make things easier for you by introducing a few key pieces into your wardrobe, so you can get out the door in the morning in a pinch while still looking chic.

Here are the key pieces you need for your work wardrobe:

 

 

 

The Modern-Day Power Suit

Every professional woman needs a nicely tailored, well-fitted power suit. Be comfortable and look effortless in Theory’s ultra-feminine bi-stretch cotton peplum jacket, which flatters curves while offering a tailored fit. Pair this jacket with cropped trousers for an easy workday look.

For a slimmer look, try Boss by Hugo Boss’ Jaru wool blazer with the Tiluna dress pants. The look is classic, professional and the pleated pant offers a polished silhouette.

If you are looking for a more casual look, try H&M’s jersey jacket, offered in a variety of colours including black and baby pink for a pop of color. The blazer is a staple piece that adds a professional twist to any outfit. Still looking for a more traditional business look? Pair the blazer with a pencil skirt for a professional, yet cost effective look.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cashmere Sweater:

A cashmere sweater is an absolute wardrobe must. Whether you are pairing it with black trousers or jeans, a cashmere sweater offers both comfort and style. For a traditional office look, wear a fitted turtle neck with a pencil skirt or trousers and heels. If you favour a preppy look, pick a sweater with an elongated silhouette and a relaxed fit. My personal favourite is the Asher V-neck sweater from Equipment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Cropped Pants:

Cropped trousers are the perfect pant for your wardrobe this season. As we head into spring/summer, the cropped hem is ideal for a day at the office or post-work cocktails, perfect to show off your heels. Style them with a casual denim shirt for everyday wear or a cashmere sweater for a more streamlined appearance. Both J. Crew and GAP offer a great selection on slim cropped pants.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Classic White Collared Shirt:

A classic white-collared shirt never goes out of style, with the versatility to work with a power suit or on its own with cropped pants or a skirt. When looking for a white collared shirt, pick one that is fitted but doesn’t gape at the bust. State’s long sleeve collared blouse offers a comfortable, yet stylish look.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Silk Blouse:

Add a feminine touch with a soft flowy silk blouse when you need a dressy look but don’t want too many layers. Try Equipment’s signature silk shirt in peacoat as an alternative to black!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Midi-Skirt:

A midi-skirt will come in handy for all seasons, as the perfect hybrid between a mini and maxi skirt. This mid-length number is versatile enough to wear with tights during winter and bare legs in summer. A few things to consider when selecting the ideal skirt: height and pattern. If you are petite, stick to a skirt that cuts just above or below the knee. The length of the skirt is everything, and you ideally want the hemline to sit mid-shin where your leg begins to thin. If you are wearing a bold skirt, balance it with a neutral or understated blouse. I recommend Leith’s ruched body con skirt or Theory’s silk midi skirt.

 

 

 

 

 

 
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Wrap Coat:

A great jacket can pull together any look and a wrap coat is the perfect combination of elegance and comfort. Tahari’s wool-blend belted wrap coat adds the right amount of flare while offering a flattering length. If you feel like splurging, treat yourself to The Row’s Damo crepe wrap coat.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
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The Classic Pump:

Never skimp on shoes—your feet need to be cushioned and offered proper support. Treat yourself to Jimmy Choo’s Esme patent nude pump for a classic nude to soften any look. For a classic black pump I would strongly suggest Manolo Blahnik’s BB105 suede pump for a classic black that easily transitions from office to evening wear. Feel like adding a touch of flare? Opt for a pair of leopard-print pumps as a statement piece to make your outfit pop.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
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Accessories: 

A few staple accessories are all you need to elevate an outfit. Get some chunky necklaces that can help tie together an outfit. This Rosantica piece instantly adds sparkle when paired with a white collared shirt and tailored pants. For a lighter look, this Kent and King bib necklace looks stunning when worn with a silk shirt and midi skirt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Work Tote:

If you’re anything like me, you have a LOT to keep in your purse, and need a bag that can handle it all. Spoil yourself with Saint Laurent’s sleek and stylish large leather tote to carry your work life with you! This lightweight tote is large enough to carry your tablet while the minimalist design makes it office appropriate.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

For more style tips, follow my YouTube Channel Secrets of a Stylist.