The latest spring trends you can wear to work right now
Whether you work in a corporate environment or a creative industry, your work look might get a little stale by the winter's end. This is where you can work some of Spring's new pieces into your wardrobe to give it a little boost and transition into Spring/Summer 2017. Here are some of the best trends for your professional wardrobe pick-me-up and how to wear them.
Banker stripes
Inspired by Wall Street, but with a twist here and a ruffle here and there, the banker stripe shirt was reimagined on almost every runway, some with bell sleeves, others with shoulder cut outs.
Corporate: Pair with a straight leg trouser in a neutral colour to highlight the colour and stripes of the blouse
Creative: Pair with vintage denim and a leather belt, to keep the look casual
From Left to Right: Bell sleeve top Marshalls 29.99, Cotton bell sleeve shirt Kaelen $650
The lady loafer
Once reserved for librarians and school principals, the loafer has taken over as the shoe of choice for all ages this year. Styles range from a classic slip-on to whimsical embellishments.
Corporate: A slick patent loafer pairs perfectly with any trouser. Try with trousers that are cropped at the ankle for a more youthful look
Creative: Play up the creativity with fun floral prints, or pearl and bow embellishments. Want to take it up a notch? Layer with a sheer printed sock and pair with your favourite denim or trouser
Left to Right: Shoes H&M, printed loafers Club Monaco $359, slip on loafers Winners $99.99
Retro suiting
That's right, it's back! 80's trends are making their way back for 2017 with oversized blazers, pop colours, and ruched details. While we're not in a hurry to put shoulder pads in anything, we are loving the oversized blazers, satin lapels, and ruched sleeves.
Corporate: Look for longer, larger silhouettes, and play with new styles. A double-breasted blazer feels fresh and smart, while new neutral options for suits such as tan and blush are a great way to add a little extra style without going over the top.
Creative: Pair your oversized blazer with a sheer blouse, high waisted trousers/skirt, and cinch at the waist with one of the seasons most important accessories; the belt!
Left to right: Suit jacket Simons $69.95, Double breasted jacket Artizia $325, roll up sleeve jacket Zara $129
The new hoop
Hoop earrings came in all forms this season, from supersized hoops to micro hoop studs. What used to be reserved for a night on the town, is now a perfect pairing for any work environment.
Corporate: We love the mix of hoop and drop earrings like the Thomas Sabo pair below. Dress up a simple blouse with a statement earring or pair with a structured blazer for an elevated look.
Creative: Play with larger than life silhouettes, wording, and mix and match metals.
Left to Right: Earrings Thomas Sabo $239, Love hoop earrings H&M, hoop studs Biko $55
Leopard print
Accessories are the way to go when it comes to wearing animal prints at work. Leopard print is a trend that will continue season after season. So, it's best to pick up one or two updated pieces every year.
Corporate: Knot a leopard print handkerchief and tuck into blouse, or pair a leopard print shoe with black opaque tights and a dress for a 60's inspired look.
Creative: Play with leopard printed accessories in unconventional ways. For example, roll up a silk scarf and thread through trouser belt hoops, then cinch with a broach or pin.
From left to right: Shoes Ann Taylor $176.10, Fanny pack Anthropologie $228, Spotted silk scarf RW&CO $41.26
Nadia Pizzimenti is a Toronto based Fashion Stylist with Judy Inc.