Let’s get down to business - Outfits & Jewellery!

The art of power dressing has long since been used by many business women to make themselves feel in control and authoritative in the work place, particularly if they work in a male-dominated environment.

Believe it or not, extensive studies have been undertaken to assess the psychological benefits of dressing to impress at work, and power dressing does indeed in most cases, give the wearer much more confidence.

We’re not talking Joan Collins a la Dynasty here, with shoulder pads the size of small planks (although as we all know, shoulder pads did try to raise their excessive heads again this year) and glittering jewellery from Cartier.  A simple skirt or trouser suit, pretty blouse and heels is just as effective.  However, let’s face it girls – it is a little boring, and does become part of a “uniform” in offices such as law and accountancy firms.

To feel a little more feminine and to stand out among the suited women in your workplace, make sure your heels are more stilettoed than chunky.  Stilettos have made a comeback this year and do wonders for appearing to lengthen your legs and slim your ankles.  Uncomfortable if you’re standing or walking all day but you know what they say – no pain no gain!

Next, as you can see above, add a little accessorising to make your outfit more individual and you, more memorable.  Because you’re in a professional environment, you need to keep your accessories subtle – make sure your colours are muted and there’s not too much glitter going on.

Someone who has got this look bang on is “Mary, Queen of Shops”, Mary Portas.  Renowned for her straight-talking, authoritative style, Mary effortlessly moves between corporate and fashion.

Mary’s love of cocktail rings is legendary – and infectious.  Why does a large ring on your finger make you feel more powerful?  We have no idea – but it does.  Stay away from flowery and decorative embellishments, and go for something big and bold.  We love this ring from the Seasonsonline site. This large silver & green crystal coil ring is only £8.99 – but is bound to make an impression.

For a necklace, the same goes – straight forward elegance, not overly girly but telling the world that this is a woman who knows what she wants, knows what is best –and will work hard to achieve it.

This black diamond necklace does precisely that. At £5.99 from the Seasonsonline site, it will accessorise all of your working outfits perfectly – and make your colleagues sit up and take notice.