Stripes have been a constant feature in fashion for ages. They are versatile, timeless, and can be dressed up or down. However, incorporating bold stripes into your work attire can be a tricky affair. How do you wear striped shirts, dresses, or tops without looking too casual, or worse, overwhelmed? Let’s explore how you can ace the stripe style for your business wear.
Understanding Stripes and Their Effects
Your understanding of stripes, their direction, and the visual effects they create can be a game-changer in your style game. Stripes come in various orientations – vertical, horizontal, and diagonal. Out of these, vertical stripes are the most preferred for work attire.
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Vertical Stripes
Vertical stripes are known for creating an illusion of height and slimness. They direct the viewer’s eyes up and down, adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit. When you wear a shirt or a dress with vertical stripes, it can make you look taller and leaner.
Horizontal Stripes
On the other hand, horizontal stripes can make you appear wider. They direct the eyes from left to right, which might not be the most flattering if you’re aiming for a polished, slim look for your business attire. It’s best to opt for horizontal stripes on tops that you want to accentuate, like a broad shoulder or a full bust.
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Diagonal Stripes
Diagonal stripes, on the other hand, can be a fun alternative to vertical or horizontal stripes. When worn correctly, they can add an interesting visual element to your outfit. However, they can also be a little tricky to pull off in a professional setting, so proceed with caution.
Choosing the Right Colors for Your Striped Outfit
The color of your striped outfit plays a major role in determining the overall look. If you’re going for a professional, business look, you would want to stick with colors that are traditionally associated with professionalism. Black, blue, grey, and white are classic colors that never go wrong.
For instance, a blue striped shirt paired with a black skirt can create a classic business outfit. Similarly, a black and white striped dress can look professional yet stylish. The key is to choose colors that complement each other and add to your personal style and professional image.
Pairing Your Striped Shirt with the Right Tie
If you choose to wear a striped shirt for your business attire, pairing it with the right tie can enhance your look. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- If your shirt has bold, wide stripes, opt for a tie with smaller prints or patterns. This will ensure that your tie doesn’t compete with your shirt for attention.
- If your shirt has thin, subtle stripes, you can go for a tie with larger patterns. A solid color tie can also work well in this case.
- When choosing the color of your tie, ensure that it complements the color of your stripes. For instance, if you’re wearing a blue striped shirt, a tie in a shade of blue can create a harmonious look.
Incorporating Stripes in a Casual Outfit
While stripes are commonly associated with business attire, they can also be incorporated into a casual outfit. For instance, a striped top paired with jeans can create a stylish, casual look.
If you’re going for a casual yet professional look, you can pair a striped shirt with a pair of black trousers and a blazer. This outfit can be perfect for a casual Friday at work or a business meeting at a café. Remember, the key to pulling off stripes in a casual outfit is to balance them with solid colors.
Conclusion
The rules of fashion are constantly evolving, and there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to incorporating stripes into your work attire. The key lies in understanding the effect of different types of stripes, choosing the right colors, and pairing them correctly. With these tips in mind, you can incorporate bold stripes into your work attire without looking overwhelmed.
Coordinating Striped Shirts with Other Business Casual Attire
When it comes to incorporating bold stripes into your work attire, how you coordinate your striped shirt with other pieces is crucial. Your choice of pants, blazers, skirts, or even accessories can make a big difference in the overall look of your outfit.
Striped Shirt and Trousers
Pairing a vertically striped shirt with a pair of solid color trousers can create a professional and stylish look. A light blue or navy blue striped shirt with grey or black trousers can give you a classic, business-like appearance. If you have a black and white striped shirt, pairing it with a black or grey trouser can maintain a professional yet stylish look.
Striped Shirt and Blazers
A blazer can be a great addition to your striped shirt for a more formal look. A solid color blazer that complements the color of your stripes can help balance the boldness of your shirt. For instance, a navy blue blazer can work well with a white striped shirt, creating a harmonious color palette.
Striped Shirt and Skirts
If you prefer wearing skirts at work, pairing your vertically striped shirt with a solid colored skirt can also be a great option. A black skirt with a white or light blue striped shirt can give you a professional and stylish appearance.
Striped Shirt and Accessories
Accessories can also play a significant role in enhancing your outfit and balancing the boldness of your stripes. A solid colored tie that complements the color of your shirt can bring your look together. Similarly, a pair of simple earrings or a classic watch can add a touch of elegance to your striped outfit.
The Right Fabric Matters
The fabric of your striped outfit can significantly influence how it looks and feels. Linen, cotton, and silk are some of the popular choices for a striped shirt or dress shirt.
Linen Striped Shirts
Linen is a lightweight, breathable fabric, which makes it perfect for summer or warmer climates. A linen striped shirt can give you a casual yet professional look, making it a suitable choice for a business casual dress code.
Cotton Striped Shirts
Cotton is another popular choice for striped shirts due to its comfort and versatility. It’s a durable fabric that can withstand frequent washing, making it a practical choice for everyday wear. A cotton striped shirt can be dressed up or down, depending on what you pair it with.
Silk Striped Shirts
Silk striped shirts offer a more luxurious and formal look. They have a smooth and shiny finish, which can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit. However, silk requires more care and isn’t as durable as cotton or linen.
Conclusion
Incorporating bold stripes into your work attire doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear understanding of stripes and their effects, the right choice of colors and fabric, and appropriate coordination with other business casual attire, you can wear your striped shirt confidently and stylishly. Always remember to balance out the boldness of your stripes with solid colors, and choose accessories that complement your outfit instead of competing with it. In the journey of fashion, your personal style should always be the guiding light.