Monday, 7am. All you see in your wardrobe are tees and jeans. Panic attack? Fret not; here are five simple tips to make sure that you’re always the office head turner (for the right reasons!).

By Marlia Natasha

1 Investing in great bottoms are a great way to begin. Having good black skirts or pants will allow you the flexibility of pairing it with many different tops, disguising your limited choices for a while. A safe combination would be separate blacks and whites; a little colour however, wouldn’t hurt anyone, though neon-yellow paired with bright green surely would.

Companies usually have dress codes and it would do you good to heed them. For example, bright colours and wild ties are a no-no in most banks while other firms frown upon skimpy skirts and capri pants. When in doubt, just take the conservative road and you’ll be fine.

2 Of course, accessorise! Simple ear studs, subtly stylish necklaces, elegant watches and chic hairclips can do wonders towards jazzing up and completing your outfit. And while chunky jewellery can be great for dress down Fridays or a creative work environment, it’s generally not an accessory of choice for most other professional scenarios.

3 Whether they’re peep toes or slingbacks, a trusty pair of black heels will accentuate practically any outfit. Be warned though; 4-inch heels aren’t for everyone. Kitten heels might just save you from a fall so embarrassing, you’d be the subject of water-cooler talk for months to come.

4 If you’re blessed with great skin and a natural blush in your cheeks, you’re one of the lucky few. For the rest of us though, know this: a good make-up kit will go a long way. Start with foundation powder from brands like ZA and Maybelline, that are easy on the purse strings but provide quality products. Next, shape your eyebrows to make them neater; avoid dark colours and glitter.

Also, match your make-up to your day’s colour combination. Beige eye shadow, a swipe of mascara, and a hint of lipgloss are usually glamorous enough for work. Too much, and you’ll just be wasting time touching up later.

5 Finally, get enough rest. Being neat and fresh-faced always gives a great and lasting impression.


There! You’re all set for work!