Seattle style consultant provides insight to
professionals on how to dress for the season
With summer on its way out and the chill of fall beginning to settle in, it’s time to put away the short sleeve shirts and lightweight separates that have served you well over the past season. In the workplace, this shift becomes even more apparent.
“Once summer ends, office fashion trends tend to become much more conservative and simple. Classic looks in neutral colors and natural fibers abound. This coming season is no exception,” said Bill Hoffer, an image and fashion consultant who works with Seattle professionals.
Hoffer stresses that even in ultra-casual Seattle, a work wardrobe should differ from everyday “hanging around the house” dress. “There have been studies and polls that show a person’s appearance can directly affect their chances at getting a raise or a promotion. Dressing well impresses on others your level of professionalism and how you feel about yourself and your work.”
So what should a savvy professional wear this season?
WOMEN:
• Wide-leg cuffed pants in neutral colors matched with shorter jackets.
• Separates in graphic and textured prints, as well as blouses and tops in lavenders and French blue.
• Cashmere scarves and sweaters offer a simple, but elegant statement especially in bright, classic colors.
• In handbags, look for satchels in various leather and cloth finishes.
MEN:
• Trousers in basic color palettes that span from black to gray, navy to blue, olive to taupe, and brown to tan. Pair this with a blazer or sport coat for a sharp look.
• Tailored, fitted suits in a variety of cloth choices such as high twist wool, serge, gabardine, and twills.
• Ties that boast subtle patterns or prints. Stripes are not as strong this season.
According to Hoffer, if you can only afford one new item this season, a trench coat or topcoat is where you should invest. This goes for men and women alike. “People spend most of their work day inside. They only need to worry about staying warm and dry when going from location to location, and a good topcoat will do this while still maintaining professional style.
“A well structured wardrobe should transition easily from one season to the next.
With this in mind, there’s no reason that a majority of professional’s wardrobe can’t be comprised of year-round weight suits. If you take care of these, they will sustain you for several seasons,” said Hoffer.
ABOUT BILL HOFFER
With close to two decades experience in the fashion industry, Bill Hoffer is an expert at creating tailored, fashionable, and sophisticated looks for his clients. His services include one-on-on style and fabric consultation, personalized designs, and professional alteration and sewing. His business, Wardrobe Design, works with clients throughout Western Washington.
More information on Hoffer and the work done through Wardrobe Design can be found at www.wardrobedesign.net.