A guide to dressing for success

Research shows that female job candidates are far more likely to be judged on their appearance than their male counterparts, so getting your wardrobe right as a woman is essential. Getting the balance between professional and fashionable is often a fine line.

Luckily, the owners of luxury women’s business fashion brand Cecily have put together a handy guide of do’s and don’ts for making the right first impression with your choice of outfit.

Do:

• Choose well fitted, tailored dresses or a shirt and skirt that work well to flatter and enhance your shape, but make sure they’re clothes you feel comfortable in and that make you look and feel great.
• When it comes to necklines, v-necks are universally flattering, as they lengthen the neck; but don’t be scared of other modest necklines – play around with some variations to see which style best frames your face.
• Plain block colours or a subtle pattern work best in business settings and it pays to choose mid-tone colours such as blue, green, wine and purple, as they’re universally flattering.
• When it comes to complementing the body, black is the ‘stay safe’ option for a good reason, so make sure you have at least one trusty option in black to fall back on when needed.

Don’t:

• Big prints and busy patterns are a style no-no in the workplace; avoid boxy and stuffy power suit jackets that suggest you’re stuck in the 1980s.
• Overly revealing necklines can be distracting so are best avoided if you’re hoping to project an experienced and elegant look. Avoid overdressing – the key is to look smart and sophisticated, not as though you’re dressed for a party.
• The same goes for large, distracting jewellery – discreet pieces that complement your outfit and help present a complete ensemble are the way forward.