Your true closet essential, denim, is now accepted in the office-wear
category, helping us solve most of our office dressing dilemmas. But
let’s face it—when it comes to dressing the jean up, all of us need a
little help to look professional. This is why we decided to compile a
denim guide for all you working women out there. Let’s get started.
:
When we say that you can wear denim to work, we definitely
don’t mean that you can wear a crop top with a low-rise pair. Looking
polished in denim is an art! Follow our advice to work the basic in your
favour.
GO FOR
Rise
High-rise
It sits above your natural waist and navel, giving you a classic
female fit. It’s perfect for those with a pear-shaped body, as it makes
the hips and thigh area appear slimmer. Pick pairs in black and bright
hues like cobalt blue or red for a professional-looking outfit.
Low-rise
It sits 2 or more inches below a woman’s natural waist. It gives the
illusion of a longer waist, and is best suited on petite and
apple-shaped women. Choose jeggings in leather or colours like black,
dark blue or white to give an illusion of long legs.
Mid-rise
The universally flattering option, mid-rise jeans sit at or close to
the natural waist. Go for pairs in blue, black, white or any other
colour, and stick to the garment wash or sandblasted finish. Ripped
denim in mid-rise is also a good option.
Cuts
Boot-cut
A slightly flared leg flatters all body shapes. If you are looking to balance out your bust and hips, this is an ideal pick.
Skinny
Narrow all the way and fitting snugly against the body, this is a great pick for short women who wish to project longer legs.
Straight leg
It does not flare out at the ankle and hugs your body just right. Ideal for all body shapes.
AVOID
Cropped lengths
Anything more than an inch above the ankle is a no-no. It takes away
the professional feel, making you look more like a teenager going to
college.
Way too many prints and colours
Going for a self-print in floral or dual-toned pink and blue denim
would make you look as if you are on a holiday. Keep it as basic as
possible when it comes to shopping for work denim.
Destroyed denim
Knees popping out of your jeans are not a pleasant sight at work—even
on a Friday. Go for minimal distressed detailing, whether at the knees,
pockets or thighs.
Boyfriend style
To be avoided, as these are loose fitted and would appear very casual, even when worn with other formal pieces.
Frayed hem
Avoid looking as if you have arrived at a music or college festival. Keep hems clean.
SHOP OUR PICKS
Shop the most flattering pieces now for a cool denim look.
:
Mid-rise skinny jeans
Wear these coated skinny jeans with a baby pink shirt and black pumps
for a cool Monday look. Finish off with a black patent leather laptop
bag.
,.
:
Boot-cut jeans
This firm-stretch denim is a great option for client meetings. Wear
it with a boyfriend blazer in black or white and finish off with block
heels and a tan leather bag for an impressive look.
:
Ripped khaki jeggings
When going for ripped styles, avoid bright colours like red or yellow
as it might push your look in the casual arena if not done right. Wear
this one with a white shirt and pastel hued blazer for a chic look.
Reserve this outfit for Casual Friday.
,
:
Low-rise straight-fit denim
Lends a skinny fit. We suggest that you wear this one with a linen kurta and brogues for an androgynous look.
:
Go for a black shirt with this pair of orange, skinny-fit
trousers. Finish off with a black belt and pointed-toe flats for a
classy outfit.
Tips to maintain your work denim
- Do not machine wash. Hand wash them in cold water to maintain the
colour and fabric, or freeze them by putting them in a plastic bag to
remove odour.
- Hang your jeans in the bathroom for a good steam clean while you are in the shower.
- Reserve only a few pairs of denims for the office. Avoid wearing them off duty to maintain their fabric and quality.
- Always hang them in your wardrobe. Do not fold. This will help maintain their stretch and shape.
