Matching accessories to your power suit to impress
At work, it’s important to portray yourself as a powerful woman who radiates strength – and there’s no better way to do so than with a power suit.
And properly accessorizing your power suit is a wonderful way to project strength, competence, and professionalism – without compromising on a feminine essence or elegance.
Accessories are also a fantastic way to add nuance and individuality to your look, creating a seamless blend of function and fashion. Here are five accessories you can add to impress.
1) Jewelry
Let’s begin with one of the most impactful accessories: jewelry. A statement necklace can transform your suit from a boring office look to both professional and chic. With a simple suit in a single color, a standout necklace can be a truly powerful statement piece that perfectly complements an understated power suit.
Alternatively, if your suit has intricate patterns or textures, consider wearing a delicate pendant that won’t compete for attention. Earrings are also a great option – studs or small hoops can give your look a refined touch, without making your outfit look over the top.
A particularly interesting option can be to choose a piece of jewelry embedded with birth-stones that have traditionally been associated with power, such as sapphires or lapis lazuli. Sapphires have been associated with royal power since ancient Greece, whereas Lapis Lazuli has represented power and social status since the reign of Cleopatra.
2) A wristwatch
At work, you’re likely always looking at the clock to keep on track for deadlines, meetings, or to check when you’ll have time for a quick lunch between it all. Which is why a beautiful crafted wristwatch is a truly timeless accessory that combines function with fashion – and a subtle reminder of how valuable your time is.
Luckily, most kinds of wrist watches pair well with a power suit, from a classic gold or silver timepiece, a modern smartwatch, a chic leather-strapped watch, or a smart watch. Modern smartwatches work particularly well for busy office professionals, ensuring that you never miss a message, call, or email, even when you’re off the clock.
On the other hand, a delicate watch with a chain-link band can add a touch of femininity and elegance to your outfit. When it comes to watches, there’s really only one caveat you’ll need to consider: if wearing a watch with a leather strap, ensure the strap color matches any other leather you may be wearing – such as your belt or shoes.
3) The right pair of shoes
The right pair of shoes are the perfect finishing touch to any outfit – and an exceptional way to accessorize a power suit with a pop of color. A classic pair of pumps is the go to choice for a professional and polished look, whether they’re in a neutral shade that match your suit, or bold colors that add a dash of your unique personality to an otherwise traditional outfit.
And don’t be afraid to experiment with flats. Ballet slippers, boat shoes, moccasins and loafers pair equally well with a power suit – particularly in sophisticated neutral colors like black, white, navy, beige and tan. As always with shoes, it’s important to keep comfort in mind as much as style.
If your job is primarily desk based, a pair of heels work well, allowing you to feel confident – especially when you require an extra dose of confidence, such as during an important meeting or a big presentation. However, if your job involves a lot of running around, such as closing sales all day or dealing with suppliers all over town, you’ll probably want to opt for flats.
5) A handbag
A handbag is more than just a practical item you need to take your phone, wallet, keys and assorted paraphernalia to and from work. It’s the perfect way to accessorize a suit. Ideally, you’ll want to choose a handbag in a color that matches your shoes, for a seamlessly pulled together look. When paired with a power suit, a wide range of handbag styles can work – although you’ll want to avoid overly casual purses like slouch bags, novelty purses, and boho bags.
And when it comes to material, leather or patent leather is a clear winner for a sophisticated look. Of course, you could eschew a handbag altogether in favor of a briefcase – but it doesn’t have to be the traditional black or brown. Nowadays, there are plenty of options for briefcases in bright colors or with bold patterns. A roomy top-handle tote bag can also double as a feminine and more elegant option to the traditional briefcase.
