It’s likely that if you unwrapped any new threads over the festive period, they were socks. And, while we’ve got nothing against the fuzzy foot warmers themselves, socks aren’t likely to revolutionise your look for 2018.
Hidden away and tucked into your shoes, new socks may put a spring in your step, but they won’t help you return to the office with a bang. Instead, you need something a little more noticeable – from a statement overcoat to a patterned shirt. Thankfully, we’ve rounded up several pieces that will breath new life into your work wardrobe, without pushing you over the sartorially-acceptable edge…
Try a subtly patterned shirt
Rather than returning to your plain pale blues, crisp whites or pinks this January – which will always have a place in your wardrobe, don’t get us wrong – why not push the boat out and invest in a couple of quietly-patterned shirts to draw others’ attention to your attention to detail. Stick with your same colour scheme – this way you won’t have to buy a completely new wardrobe, but introduce some spots, dots or stripes to mix things up.
Throw on some alternative trousers
Banish those navy chinos to the back of the wardrobe! It’s 2018 and time for you to up your trouser game. Instead of the boring black and greys, add some colour into your outfit, and spruce up your workwear with some burgundy, lighter spring colours or a pattern such as a stripe or houndstooth check.
Tie a better tie
Step away from the shiny, striped silk ties. Garish diagonal patterns look more schooldays than workwear, so invest in something a little different to freshen up the daily grind. We’re talking texture: such as a thick knit with a squared-off blade. Or, if you want the classic look, opt for textured silk such as Paul Smith’s claret option (with cheeky floral print inner). If you can’t decide between the two, go striped and knitted, but stick with the experts, like Canali.
Wrap up in a statement overcoat
If you don’t want to commit to a workwear overhaul, and feel like your office threads were serving you just fine before Christmas, then why not just lift your outfit with a new overcoat. It is winter, after all – so you’ll appreciate the extra warmth as well. Opt for double-breasted, or a bolder colour or a belted-option – something that’ll stand you out from the commuting crowd, but not have you stick out in the office itself.
Tan up your shoes
Blacks and dark browns are your standard winter colours. So, if you want to stand out from the crowd and put your best foot forward, surprise with your style and slip on some tan shoes. Whatever the style – we like everything from classic brogues to monkstraps – ensure the design stays traditional even if the colour is not.
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