From The Straits Times    |

What we choose to wear to work holds a hefty weighting on how we’re perceived in our role. Our office wardrobe is a sign of our competence and professionalism…so it’s imperative that we constantly keep our workwear game strong. 

Herein lies the million dollar question, how are you supposed to make workwear look diverse yet impressive?

It’s so hard to stray beyond the cookie-cutter sheath dresses or pencils skirts and still be taken seriously in our respective fields. The ultimate goal is to be fashionable AND professional. 

Fret not, we are here to help. Check out these 10 celebrity approved outfits that are serious workwear inspo. 

 

A post shared by Rebecca Lim 林慧玲 (@limrebecca) on

1. Rebecca Lim
If you want to stand out and impress both your coworkers and your superiors, take a leaf out of Rebecca Lim’s style book. This vibrant pink hue makes for a great statement finish to any outfit and is a sure fire way of commanding attention, in a good way of course! Oh and if that isn’t enough, this pink is the colour of the moment, as spotted across the S/S ‘17 runways.

 

A post shared by Fann Wong (@fannaiaiwong) on

2. Fann Wong 
You don’t always have to go for dark colours and bulky jackets in order to exude power and authority. You can definitely opt for a lighter hue, case in point: an all white ensemble. The sleek white separates paired with a pair of simple heels and tan coloured bag is all you need to shut the meeting down. 

3. Carina Lau 
Got a fancy print? Make sure to keep your hemlines conservative and style the print with the safest color on the spectrum—black. The structure of the dress such as this panelled waistband and front piping detail is enough to take it from ‘floaty summer’s day’ vibe to ‘serious board room meeting’ look. 

 

A post shared by myoliemyolie (@myoliemyolie) on

4. Myolie Wu 
Spice up an otherwise boring and bland outfit with a statement-details like Myolie’s crisp white shirt with elongated sleeves paired with a shiny patent leather skirt. White shirts do not have to be traditional, stiff and undesirable. Instead, head towards a blouse or chiffon fabric to keep your attire fresh. 

 

A post shared by Paisley 胡蓓蔚 (@paisleyhu) on

5. Paisley Hu
If black will always be your jam, spruce it up with interesting details. Think blouses with pearls, interesting details, small ruffles, or a pair of fancy strappy heels. The key here is to keep everything easy and sophisticated. 

 

A post shared by Jeanette Aw 欧萱 (@jeanetteaw) on

6. Jeanette Aw
For those days where you feel like you are dragging a sluggish, dehydrated shell of a body to work, a fuss-free jumpsuit will be your saviour! The one-piece is a favourite for the career women who have no time in the mornings to compile a decent ensemble.  These are literally ‘throw on and go’ with the fashionable element we all desire. It’s a win-win. 

7. Sammi Cheng 
Pencil skirts always get a bad rep for being boring and conservative. Modernise this office staple by overloading it with details— pit a black pencil skirt with buttons against a loud striped graphic blouse for a contemporary-chic edge. Or, add a burst of bright colour in your top or accessories to give that ‘high fashion’ element to the entire outfit. 

 

A post shared by Liu Wen (刘雯) (@liuwenlw) on

8. Liu Wen 
Jeans never looked as classy and sophisticated, thanks to Liu Wen’s impeccable styling. Layering a rich gold tweed jacket over a basic black t-shirt keeps the outfit dressy but not over the top. The cropped pair of trousers and feminine slingback pumps reveal a slice of skin, which helps balances out the bulk in the outerwear. 

 

A post shared by Melody殷悅 (@melodykliu) on

9. Melody Liu
A relaxed blouse with a striking ribbon detail is a foolproof place to begin your casual Fridays outfit. For an of-the-moment finish, add pants with slightly frayed hems and nail the look with a pair of on-trend two-toned mules.