The clothes we wear to the office has changed considerably in the last decade. Most men are not wearing suits on a regular basis to work and women are not in suits and stocks anymore either! And we here at The Style Duo think that it is great not to be required to wear a “uniform” to your place of business. We believe expressing yourself through style is just as important at work as it is everywhere else. BUT… there are still some trends and styles that you should tread cautiously with when deciding what to wear to the workplace.

For example, before wearing fur or even faux fur to the workplace, you must think about whether or not it it appropriate for the environment you are in.
Just like other styles, think before you wear. For example, if you are a third grade schoolteacher, you are not going to show up to the classroom in leather hot shorts and tights. However, if you are a booker at a cutting edge modeling agency that outfit might be really cool! Different looks are appropriate in different environments. Same with fur. Since fur can sometimes give off a sexy, glamourous vibe, you should put away your statement fur and faux fur pieces for date night and parties. But some designers are making short trimmed vests and using fur on collars and cuffs. You will feel more comfortable in these subtle versions of the trend from 9-5.

If you are in sales or will be on your feet most of the day. make sure you wear comfortable shoes. There are no two people who embrace the high heeled trend more than us! BUT, that being said, even we wore lower heels and alot of wedges when we were working as personal shoppers at Neiman Marcus and had to be on our feet all day. So if you are on your feet for a good portion of the day invest in alot of cute wedges and jeweled flats so you stay stylish AND comfortable.

A trend that is really big this season is cut out shoulders. We have embraced that trend and you will see the two of us wearing this style alot this season. It’s fun and flirty and if you are in the fashion, music, or entertainment business go right ahead! But if you are heading up a meeting in the boardroom, leave your cut outs at home and instead don peplums, colored blazers and lace trimmed cardigans for an on-trend but appropriate look.

Leather is everywhere and we are seeing some fabulous polished, conservative ways to wear it to work. But be careful not to show too much skin and instead keep it loose and sophisticated. Too tight and you are sending the wrong message! And leopard is popping up on clothing this season. But keep it to an accessory or just a small detail for day.

Here are some Duo and Don’ts for trends in the workplace. We’ve come a long way!