the work wardrobe update #1

Welcome to the Work Wardrobe Updates Series. Here we will take a look at what's new this season and how you can rework your existing looks or make new (well-considered) purchases to keep your look fresh.

Yes, welcome to the Update Series and welcome to 2019. Now that the madness of January sales is pretty much out of the way, I thought we'd take a look at the serious trends coming up based on what we're seeing everywhere on social media.

The Well-Considered approach is to interpret these trends into everyday practical looks that will get you through the work week without spending a fortune or filling up your wardrobe with junk.

HIGH SATURATION

If you're in NZ or Australia we're in mid summer. The sun is bright, the sky is blue and everything is alive with colour. Perfect for your high saturation contribution. Keep the shapes simple, minimise detail and avoid pattern.

Personally, I think there are only a few colour combos to avoid: green + red (Ho ho ho....) and green + gold (Aussie Aussie Aussie.....). Red and gold is also risky unless you’re Ronald McDonald. Other than that, freaking go for it! The more unusual the mix of colours the better.

If you're in the Northern Hemisphere then bring spring to you. Just because it's grey & freezing outside doesn't been you can't tap into the spring 2019 trend ahead of time and bring some colour to your world.

Ground the look for work with black shoes and a black bag or take it next level with colour saturated accessories.

Grab the brightest pieces you own, put them together, take a deep breath and step out the door. Commit and back yourself!

make it your own

Zara Neon Heels 79.95 AUD

Zara Draped Dress 99.00 AUD

Marcs Green Cropped Pants 149.95 AUD

Scanlan & Theodore T-Shirt 90.00 AUD

WHITE SHOES

I think this really is a case of white being the new black and compared to its darker counterpart, a pair of bright white shoes will make a major statement. White shoes are everywhere, particularly in the European winter. The right pair will instantly update an outfit but there’s a trick to avoid them looking middle aged and matronly.

For me, a modern shape such as a pointed toe or edgy heel seals the deal. I don’t know exactly why I feel it needs this futuristic edge but a white shoe can run the risk of looking a bit orthopedic. The mule and ankle boot work well in white, as does a sharp stiletto.

The white sneaker is always a classic and stronger than ever.

make it your own

Zara Wedge Mules 69.95 AUD

Zara High Heel Mules 149.00 AUD

MNG Heel Ankle Boot 149.95 AUD

MNG Mulan Shoe 129.95 AUD

THE BELT BAG

So it was probably the accessory of the year for 2018 and shows no signs of moving on. The belt bag transcends the 1980’s bum bag, re-interpreted as a high fashion item by Gucci, Balenciaga, Chanel and many others.

Whether it’s a belt bag worn across the body or a shoulder bag worn as a belt, this key item is now more accessible than ever, with all the major brands creating their own version of the belt bag.

Are you ready to buckle up?