Dresses that work

MANILA, Philippines - Want to put the “dress” in “dress code”? There’s nothing more admirable than a woman on top, especially if she knows how to dress the part. A strong sense of style can be expressed using chic ensembles that make a fashionable statement, despite corporate rules. Yes, you can master the art of power dressing with great deals and bargain finds on office attire at Shoppesville in Greenhills Shopping Center.

The corporate environment isn’t all about black suits. As shown by stylists Rosanna Aranaz, Nikki Santiago, Sheryl Songsong, and Laureen Uy, there are endless possibilities to work wear nowadays. The directive? Take charge and build a chic wardrobe appropriate for the workplace.

Rosanna has a little fun with a straightforward outfit accented with a colorful blazer and animal-print pumps. It is well within the dress code, but still lets a girl’s personality shine through.

For Nikki, a burst of color or a vibrant print makes office attire more interesting. “Just make sure to temper these elements with neutral colors,” she says. After all, power dressing is really about appropriateness. Amp up the girly factor by replacing the usual pair of slacks with a maxi skirt or palazzo pants.

“A cheerful linen dress is comfortable, but not too casual to wear for a 9 to 5 job,” Sheryl says. Take note not to wear anything revealing, too, as seen in this below-the-knee piece. “Accented by a wire necklace and two-inch ankle-strap heels, this is nice even for walking all day.”

Laureen wants any woman to not only look powerful, but to feel powerful as well. “A blazer over harems shows a sexy side without showing any skin.” The right bling, a chunky necklace and a few bangles, take the look up a notch.

Invest in the right pieces, such as a nice-fitting blazer or a great pair of bottoms. Treat the office as life’s runway and make a statement — pick the best of Shoppesville’s office-appropriate clothes, bags, shoes, and accessories.