When it comes to your office-ready wardrobe, the accessories your wear are just as important as your power pantsuits, streamlined pencil skirts and smart blazers. Incorporating glimpses of your personality and unique style into your professional ensembles is sometimes a tricky task, which is why we’ve compiled a list featuring the working woman’s essential arsenal of classy and office-appropriate accessories. From chic pearl earrings to suitable handbags that simply don’t carry an expiration date and from sleek jewelry pieces to retro-infused accents, there are lots of ways you can add a personal note to your business-ready look.
1. The Timeless Pearl Earrings
They’re appropriate in the widest range of environments – and your office, regardless of your field of activity, is definitely one of them. They’re elegant, they’re chic and they stand the test of time. We’re talking about one of the most quintessentially feminine pieces of jewelry out there: the timeless pearl earrings. Whether you wear smart-casual ensembles to work featuring black skinny jeans paired with streamlined blazers and button-downs or whether you’re all about perfectly-tailored suits, pearl earrings simply can’t go wrong – especially the classic, dainty kind. Opt for classic white studs if you work in a very formal environment or go for shades of blush pink and discreet dangle designs if you’re in a more creative niche.
2. The Classy Top Handle Bag
There’s something powerful and confident about a classic top handle bag. With its structured design and sturdy silhouette, the top handle bag conveys professionalism and has the surprising ability to elevate your entire outfit. Regardless of your field of work, soft, casual totes or crossbody bags are not the best choice when it comes to curating your office-ready accessory arsenal. If you are on the lookout for a bag that has the power to make your entire look seem put-together, well-thought-out and polished, then a classic top handle handbag in a neutral shade (black, grey, blush or taupe) is the best way to go.
3. The Ultra-Sleek Bangle
You love opulent bib necklaces, bedazzled with jewels and sparkles and matching beaded bracelets with dangling charms. But while some creative fields might welcomes fantasy-filled jewelry pieces, most don’t – and if you’re an accessory lover, that might feel a little discouraging. Meet the ultra-sleek, polished bangle bracelet, perfect for any type of work environment, whether you’re rocking in the real estate business or succeeding as an entrepreneur. Opt for a design that has an aura of elevated minimalism, features clean and neat lines and just the right amount of shine. Next, pair up your sleek piece with pearl earrings for a look that simply can’t miss the mark on timeless style.
4. The Retro-Chic Scarf
Adding color to your office-ready outfits can be a little tricky, especially if you work in a formal business environment. If you love bright and bold hues but would rather stick with a neutral color palette when choosing your work wardrobe, then the easiest solution is to opt for a touch of retro chicness, complete with a few saturated, joyful shades. Merge business with color by adding a pop of pigment to your look with the help of a vintage scarf in a playful geometric print, carefully tied on your handbag. The result: an instant outfit upgrade that’s equal parts feminine and professional.
5. The Reinvented Mary Janes
When it comes to office-appropriate shoes, there are various popular choices. The number one spot goes to the classic pumps, undoubtedly the number one most office-appropriate type of footwear. If you love the classic pump, but would love to incorporate more creative styles into your work wardrobe, then Mary Janes are an equally chic option. Meet the reinvented Mary Janes, which look nothing like the kitten-heeled retro shoes of the 1950s: they’re high-heeled, feature chunky heels (aka the more comfortable alternative to stilettos), and they come with delicate ankle straps, perfect for your arsenal of cropped tapered pants, as well as shift and wrap dresses.