Fashion at Work
June 27 2005 - Two-thirds of women say designer brand names are
not important at work, according to a Fashion at Work survey by . But
that doesn't stop women from buying them. 60% of women surveyed said that they had bought
a designer piece - with 95% saying they would buy marked-down duds if they could get
their hands on them.
Coach is the most coveted brand in the workplace, taking 40% of
respondents' votes, with Ralph Lauren's 26% close behind. What do women buy? Given a
choice of buying just one designer piece (votes rounded up):
- 40% of surveyed women said they would buy a suit
- 22% would cash out for a quality handbag
- Shoes were voted for by 9%
- Casual wear attracted 12%
- Out-on-the-town wear took 8%
- With the remainder selecting outerwear
"There's no doubt women love fashion," said WomensWallStreet.com
editor-in-chief Pam Little. "But we want quality clothes that flatter our figures without
breaking the bank."
Most women surveyed keep their
clothing expenditures under control with 59% respondents spending $100 or less on
clothing per month. But 29% admit to spending $101 to $300.
"When you think about it, it's really not that much," says Little. "With an average
designer piece running $300, women today are either not buying much, or they're shopping
smart. And my guess is the latter."
What's hot this season? And what are the rules for summer dressing at the workplace? Kirston Mann,
Hollywood stylist to the stars and writer of Fashion Cents(TM), a new WomensWallStreet column that covers all things fashion-minded, gives five tips:
- Sandals are hot. But flip-flops are a definite workplace no-no.
"Could you take someone seriously if their shoes make "flipping" noises around the office?
I don't think so," says Mann.
- 2. This summer's must-have is a print skirt or top. "Try bright, lively
colors that make a splash," says Mann. "Don't be afraid to add some yellows, reds and
bright pinks to your look. And this year's freshest look for skirts is full. As in
'broomstick' and hippie-style."
- 3. Think beyond eBay. Says Mann, "There are tons of great sites where
you can score designer pieces at discount. Try www.laredoute.com, www.youx.com or
ItalysOutlet at www.efashionhouse.com. You'll get some fabulous mark-downs."
- 4. T-shirts are a go for summer - dress them up with necklaces like
Native American turquoise or trade beads. "Add a summer skirt and sandals and you have a
fun, classy workplace look," says Mann.
- 5. Summer's hottest trend? Metallic shoes and handbags. Golds, silvers
and coppers are everywhere this season, from Manolo Blahnik to Old Navy. Says Mann,
"But remember, it's a trend - it won't last. If you want to add metallic to your look,
avoid the pricey stuff and look for a deal."
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