Can you wear print-on-print in a professional setting, specifically a law office? Is it an absolute no-no, or can it be done subtly and tastefully? This article will delve into these questions and provide some helpful tips on how you can incorporate print-on-print into your work wardrobe, even if you’re working in a conservative field like law. We’ll also discuss how to ensure that your outfit is appropriate for work and how to balance prints with solids to create an interesting but professional look.
The Art of Wearing Print-on-Print
Print-on-print is not a new concept in the fashion world, but it can be quite daunting to incorporate into your work wardrobe. After all, you do not want to come off as too flamboyant in a professional setting, especially in a law office where the dress code tends to be quite conservative. But fear not, it is possible to pull off this trend even in a business environment.
The key to successfully wearing print-on-print is balance. For instance, if you choose to wear a subtle striped suit, you can pair it with a printed shirt. However, it’s crucial that the prints don’t clash. Opt for prints that complement each other, like a thin-striped suit with a polka-dotted shirt. The size and intensity of the prints should also be taken into consideration. If your suit has thin stripes, your shirt’s print should not be too overpowering, or it will take away from the overall look.
Ensure the colors of your dress or suit and shirt also match. For instance, a navy-striped suit can go well with a light blue or white shirt with a subtle print. The trick is to keep the colors neutral and not too loud.
Footwear to Complement Your Print-on-Print Look
Now that we’ve discussed the attire, let’s move on to footwear. The shoes you wear can make or break your outfit. When wearing print-on-print, it’s best to go for shoes that are solid color. This will ensure that your outfit doesn’t look too busy and provides a break from the prints.
If you’re wearing a black-striped suit with a white printed shirt, opt for black shoes. If you’re wearing a blue-striped suit with a light-blue printed shirt, go for navy shoes. This way, your shoes will match your suit and not clash with your shirt.
Shoe styles also matter. In a law office setting, it’s best to stick to professional styles like pumps or loafers. Avoid shoes with too much embellishment or bright colors.
Accessories to Enhance Your Look
Next, let’s talk about accessories. If you’re wearing print-on-print, it’s best to keep your accessories minimal and subtle. This means avoiding brightly colored scarves or flashy jewelry. Instead, opt for simple pieces that complement your outfit without drawing too much attention.
In terms of jewelry, opt for simple pieces like stud earrings or a delicate necklace. If you want to wear a watch, choose one with a leather strap that matches the color of your shoes and bag.
When it comes to bags, stick to solid colors. A bag in a bold color can be a great way to add a pop of color to your outfit, but if you’re already wearing print-on-print, it’s best to stick to neutral colors like black, white, or navy.
Styling Your Print-on-Print Outfit
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s delve into the specifics of how to style your print-on-print outfit for work.
First, choose your suit. The suit will be the most prominent piece of your outfit, so it’s important to choose one that you feel comfortable and confident in. Opt for a suit in a subtle print like thin stripes or subtle checks.
Next, choose your shirt. The shirt should complement the suit but not overshadow it. Opt for a shirt in a smaller print or a print in a muted color. Don’t be afraid to experiment with prints, but remember to keep it within the boundaries of your office’s dress code.
Finally, accessorize. Choose simple yet stylish accessories that will enhance your outfit without making it look too busy. A simple tie in a solid color or a subtle print can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit. Remember, the aim is to look professional and stylish, not to make a loud fashion statement.
In conclusion, wearing print-on-print in a law office is perfectly doable. The key is to balance the prints and colors so that your outfit is stylish yet professional. With the right combination of prints, colors, and accessories, you can rock the print-on-print trend even in the most conservative of workplaces. So experiment with different combinations and find what works best for you.
Incorporating Print-on-Print into Business Casual and Formal Dress Codes
Bringing print-on-print to the office environment is a delicate balance, especially if your profession lies within the legal sphere. Understanding the nuances of your office’s dress code is paramount in executing this fashion trend seamlessly. So, whether you’re adhering to a business formal or business casual dress code, the key lies in the subtlety of your choices.
For example, if you opt for a navy blue suit with subtle stripes, you could match it with a solid-colored dress shirt or one with a muted print. Light blue is a popular choice as it pairs well with navy and helps maintain a professional appearance. This color combination can work well in both a business casual and business formal dress code.
The suit jacket plays a pivotal role in tying your look together. For instance, when you adorn a striped suit, ensure the stripes aren’t too bold or thick. A suit with fine stripes works best for a professional setting.
If you’re aiming for a more business formal look, you may choose to incorporate a slim fit, white shirt into your outfit. The contrast between the navy blue and the crisp white can create a harmonious balance. You can also add a pocket square in a complementary color or print to subtly elevate your outfit, but keep it understated to respect the formal dress code.
Remember, when it comes to print-on-print in a professional setting, the general thumb dress rule is not to overpower the subtle suit separates with a bold shirt.
Combining Prints with Dress Shoes and Year-Round Fashion Choices
Depending on the season, it may be appropriate to adjust your print-on-print look to align with the current weather conditions. For example, a light linen summer suit with a subtle print could work well with a white shirt with small, muted print.
Nonetheless, no matter the season, your choice of dress shoes is a crucial element in maintaining a professional and stylish look. A pair of plain black or navy dress shoes can anchor your outfit and provide a visual break from the prints.
Remember, your shoes should ideally match the dominant color in your suit, be it black, white or navy blue. Avoid overly decorated or brightly colored shoes as they can distract from the balance you’ve carefully curated with your prints.
Moreover, while the print-on-print trend may seem a modern idea, it’s worth noting that this concept was also present in fashion years ago. However, the key to successfully incorporating this trend into your professional wardrobe lies in understatement and elegance.
In conclusion, while the idea of print-on-print might seem daunting for a workplace setting, it can be tastefully incorporated into a law office wardrobe. The key is to balance and harmonize prints, colors, and accessories to maintain a professional appearance. Think thin-striped suits, light blue shirts with delicate prints, and complementary accessories. This trend can be an exciting way to add a touch of personality to your work attire, so feel free to experiment and find combinations that express your style while respecting the professional setting.
