SMART CASUAL WEAR FOR THE WORKING WOMAN

The reality is that what you wear matters. Whether you like it or not, you will be judged for the way you dress at your workplace. smart casual wear is always appropriate for your office because it calls for a look that is neat, easy to put on but still professional. 

STRUCTURE AND FORM
This is the most important aspect of your work wear. The fit of your clothes will set the structure of your look. Make sure that the cut is not too tight but that it also gives you a shape that is well defined and tapered. You must pay attention to the overall coverage of your outfit. 

Simple neck lines, such as the boat neck, round and U-shapes are always safe. Opt for three quarter or full length in sleeves. The preferred length of your kameez, kurti or shirt should be somewhere close to your knees. If you have to wear a sari, make sure the draping is such that you are well covered. 

Another crucial aspect for dressing in smart casuals is to always go for a timeless look, rather than chasing ever-changing trends. 
For instance, palazzos are very in, but it is better to avoid them because you lose the structured look. A timeless alternative would be slim fitted pants paired with a minimalistic top, kurti or kameez. These elements will help you create a professional image without compromising your comfort level.

EXPRESS YOUR PERSONALITY
Who said you cannot be yourself at the workplace? The trick is to highlight the little details that bring out your personality. Perhaps your favourite colour is the blazing hot pink, so instead of wearing a heavily printed pink kurti (which would be totally distracting), you could put on a bright pink lipstick. 

Invest in accessories such as bags, jewellery and shoes, as these can be easily used to bring in pops of your personality. If you like a bit of glitz, then you can wear a simple grey shirt with an embellished collar, and there you go, you have a look that shows your personality and is chic at the same time. 

Never shy away from being yourself, as the smart casual attire gives you the flexibility to express your personality.

BALANCE IS KEY
At the end of the day, it is all about a well-balanced look. The colour palette you choose for your outfit should be from the toned down range, such as pastels and neutral-earthy tones. If you are wearing a cream top, you can add in a bit of crochet lace from the similar colour family. If you want to wear a bright red top, balance it with nude pumps and pants. 

Avoid mixing too many prints as it will give a clumsy look. Rather add prints in form of piping in the collar and sleeves, or simply opt for a brightly printed scarf paired with a solid top. These are some ways by which you can use design and personality to create a balanced look. 

The workplace attire is a very public matter; it sets the stage for how people will perceive you. Dressing in smart casuals will create a sophisticated and professional look and will also boost your confidence. 
You can visit Armadio for shopping for smart casuals, as it has a wide range of outfits, starting from tops, shirts, blazers to slim fit pants and kurtis. Check it out at House 67, Road 17, Block C, Banani, Dhaka. You can also call 01787286103 to set appointment with the in-house tailor to order custom fitted outfits and visit facebook.com/ bespokearmadio for regular updates. 

By Nileema Huda Khan
Special thanks to Farheen Lalarukh Khurrum, the creative mind behind Armadio.      
Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed
Model: Mili and Trino
Wardrobe: Armadio
Make-up: Farzana Shakil
Styling: Isha Yeasmin