TO TREND OR NOT TO TREND. THAT IS THE QUESTION // DRESS FOR SUCCESS
that we are not embracing their spirt, but it would limit them. We have to embrace what the client wants. [Crazy trends] would, to some extent, limit their advancement. It’s not up to us. It has to resonate with the client. Saying that, we do pride ourselves on promoting based on ability, but you need an opportunity to showcase that ability.” Eeson points out why employees need to consider the company’s brand as well as their own personal style when dressing for success. “We are selling a service and we need to represent the quality of that service. If our physical appearance is not matching the service, it distorts the view of the service. If you show up rumpled and unwashed, people translate that to the service offering. You can be brilliant and creative, but the packaging distracts from the service. “In the office, we encourage staff to bring their whole selves to work but to also be mindful of how others feel, and to contribute to a healthy working environment. We don’t have to be clones, but if I showed up in a bikini, it would make my coworkers uncomfortable!” The KPMG partner knows, however, that it takes time and money to build a corporate wardrobe. “I’m sensitive to this because we do have lots of junior staff, fresh out of school, who are watching their bills. It’s important to pay attention to that and not to make people feel like they have to spend thousands on a suit. Having some key pieces and good, solid basics can really go a long way.” What are those basics? Gurney is happy to share her expertise. “Every businessman should have three or four tailored suits, each in a different colour and/or pattern. The suits are the foundation. Dress shirts are a crucial component and are meant to stand out, so always remember to keep the prints charming! You want a versatile selection that will work with each of the suits. Ties and bowties distinguish you from the rest and seal the deal. They must work with what you have and they must be bold.” “As for footwear, three pairs are enough to start with. A black dress shoe, a brown dress shoe and a brown boot. It is
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very important that you have a belt in the exact same colour and shade to match each pair. Pair these key pieces together correctly and you will own any room you walk into. “Every businesswoman should have three great blazers in a different cut, fit and colour. I usually suggest a white, black and navy. Those colours may seem boring, but they are so versatile. You need four pairs of dress pants, consisting of a black pair, a navy pair, a pop of colour pair (red is always a great choice) and a pattern pair. The pattern should be subtle, but distinguishable on your pants. “When choosing a pant with pattern, you want to make sure it is on a muted colour like grey, navy, or black. Your tops are where you introduce the bold colour and patterns. You can go wild with tops, because they can be taken down a notch once paired with muted pants and a solid blazer. “Dresses are easy, especially in the summer. A structured dress with a fun pattern needs nothing more than a pair of shoes and a bag and out the door you go! When choosing a dress for work, look for structured fabrics rather than a jersey. You want to make sure your dress means business and not beach. “Skirts are a great break from pants, but not a necessity. A gathered or pleated skirt and a pencil skirt are all you need to switch up the pant looks. “When it comes to footwear, I think three pairs are all you need. I am not saying to get rid of your wall of shoes if you have one, but if you are starting a collection from scratch, a black flat, a nude pump and a coloured pump will go a long way. “Every businesswoman needs a power bag. It does not have to be a luxury brand, but make sure it is bold and structured.” Gurney finishes with one time-honoured fashion quote that never goes out of style: “Confidence is your best accessory.” There is no shortage of ideas online when it comes to dressing for success, but that does not mean they are good ones. Unless your job is showcasing haute couture as a model, avoid pushing the boundaries with daring fashion at work, and instead let your confidence, personality and professionalism shine through in a wardrobe that takes you right to the top of the corporate ladder.