Can I wear sneakers to work?

Sneakers have become a staple in our wardrobes and now several important designers are offering them. They are going to be one of this season 's big trends!
But a few days ago I was asked if business women could wear Converse sneakers to work...I was like hum...
Well, let's say that this depends on the field you are in.
So to give you a clear answer: yes if you work in new technology, creative or artistic fields, otherwise it's better to avoid them.
But even if wearing sneakers are "allowed" in some fields I would suggest:

• Pick some stylish and clean ones (especially if white!)
• Take it to another level! Meaning: compensate the "effortless-sporty-teenager attitude" with an elegant and edgy outfit. For instance: short collar dress + tights + converse or masculine blazer + slim + sneakers...
• Pay attention to your accessories (bag, watches, hat, jewels, scarf...)They should be a little bit refined and should reflect your personality.

Here are some outfits spotted on the web, (Pinterest, netaporter), which are especially well done.
Which one of these would you pick?
Do you or would you like to wear sneakers to work?
How would you match them?

Vintage Fashion Shopping Tour in Milan (2nd edition)!

Discover my selection of the most beautiful Vintage fashion boutiques in-town! You will also enjoy style tips on how to add a twist of vintage for a unique and personal look! For more info & booking contact me. a presto!

How to wear cropped pants?

Have you noticed those gorgeous cropped pants in the last fashions shows? They have a specific cut directly inspired by menswear. Would you like to give it a try and add this garment to your wardrobe?
These are the kind of pants that I would definitely recommend because they fit any body shape. Here are a few tips to choose and wear them:

- if you are less than 1.60m wear them with high or kitten heels
- small belly and medium hips? Pick a high or medium waisted ones.
- flat bottom? Avoid linen, silk or a fabric too thin.

Don't wear them too casually, think "elegance and chic"!
Here are some combination suggestions to inspire you, enjoy!

white shirt + mid or high heel court shoe

Victoria Beckham version: a must!                    another one @ Asos

 

 

belted jacket + doctor bag+ pointy boots

Stella Jean

 

 

 waisted jacket + big cuff+ lace up ankle boots

Giorgio Armani

 

a retro-romantic blouse+ wool blazer + salomé shoes

Dries Van Noten

 

Which one of these combination do you prefer? Do you wear cropped pants like these? Don't be shy! Show off your ankles, spring is coming...soon!! 

Upgrade your Business Suit

Among women's' business attire the black suit & white shirt is a classic but can come across as overly formal.
It is possible to stand out from the crowd by creating a style that is personal and make you feel good and confident. Here is some advice I usually give my clients.

Here are 4 different ways to give your basic suit some personality:

• Mix fabrics: pick a blazer with different color and material (wool, chambray, leather, velvet corduroy...) from your bottom, and pair it with a silk blouse. It will create contrast and embellish your silhouette.

Mango

 

Rag&Bone (netaporter)

• Accessorize: one single accessory can make the difference! Pay attention to quality and remember that "less is more".

with a scarf

scarf D&G (netaporter) 

 

a beautiful belt 

Maison Boinet

 statement jewelry

J Crew

• Layer: as shown here below with a printed blouse and a plain color suit.

Max&Co

 

or like this:

Zara

• Add color: it's fine to wear neutrals but give your suit a "chic with a twist" touch by picking one color and showing it in different hues. (for instance in the photo below with red, see the shirt + collar + blazer + shoes)

Max&Co 

And you? Do you accessorize, layer, add color or mix different fabrics?  How do you upgrade your suit? Share your thoughts!