Victoria Magrath, a.k.a Inthefrow, has established herself as one of Instagram’s most-followed style stars, as well as our resident fashion columnist. In her latest column, she shares the secrets to power dressing that will help you look like you’ve got your sh*t together every day of the week…
There’s a woman in every office who power-dresses like a boss. She’s the woman you respect, admire or gain an abundance of inspiration from. She just appears to have her life in order – reaching targets or goals that you weren’t sure were possible, and making a huge success of whatever she sets her mind to. She makes it clear – a sharp, slick outfit adds to the overall aesthetic of the powerful, successful woman.
And so what does power dressing look like? You might not feel like that woman yet, but with the right outfit, and a positive mindset, you’ll have a touch more inspiration to reach those goals. So here are 6 looks for the summer that will have you looking and feeling the part.
1. Power Reds
Whilst the suit is a definite go-to for that slick, androgynous vibe, you can still look uber powerful in the right dress. Even better in a colour that oozes confidence. This dress from Cefinn is midi, structured but still wonderfully feminine. The red is bold and statement whilst the belt and lightweight fabric keep this from looking too stuffy and old fashioned. Pair with a high heel like these matching red Aquazzura’s for the wow factor. And go for a bag that compliments or contrasts, for that something to catch the eye. This Staud Faux Croc effect bag is a perfect workwear option.
2. Retro Suiting
If you’re going for a matching suit blazer and trousers, why not take it a step further into patterning. Prada have designed the retro prints to perfection this season with jackets, skirts and shirts all adorned with colourful and bold repeat patterns. So why not match them together and create a complete outfit, like this Prada knit jacket and matching trousers. Green is not a colour we see trending regularly, but in a soft, neon lime, this Prada suit screams 70’s retro styling without being too overbearing. It’s a look, but it’s one that will have everyone wishing they had the confidence to pull it off, too. Throw on the ‘It bag’ of the season and either high nude heels or flats to finish the look. Green neon eyeliner and a Giorgio Armani Coral Lip (#304) optional, but so much fun.
3. Pencil Skirting
The pencil skirt is that classic workwear piece that can often feel a little overdone and boring. But done in the right way, and the right fabric, colour or print, it can offer you a new level of powerful femininity. Burberry have rebranded with a vengeance this season and it’s all about their TB logo branded over everything from hair scarves to high heels. Therefore keeping the skirt plain but rocking it up a little with vinyl makes this outfit sexy yet sophisticated. Adding a bold pattern to the blouse gives the look a bundle of personality, especially when you pull the pattern into your hair via the hottest season accessory too. Who knew we all needed a bun scarf?
4. Baby Blue Two Piece
The Balmain blazer has become synonymous with the strong, confident, female persona. The intensely padded shoulders offer a more empowering, almost intimidating shape to the fit whilst the double breasted fastening hugs the female form. You just look like you mean business. You could go for the famous, signature black or navy, but in a baby blue pastel with a softer silver button finish, this suit is strong yet youthful. It accentuates the form with an imposing silhouette, but softens with that innocent childlike blue. Wear it with shorts or over jeans and of course pair it with the matching trousers to keep the look Bossy. If you get hot on your way to your meeting/event/desk, don’t forget to wear a cami or a bandeau underneath that compliments, such as this cropped number in tweed. And to finish, a light bag in matching silver hardware.
5. Pink Pastel
Pink is for everyday, not just for Wednesdays. Especially when it looks this fierce. The defining feature of this trouser suit could be the long-length double breasted blazer, but equally it might be the flood length shape of the fit and flare trousers. Together, the two are figure hugging, flattering and feminine. Wear it with confidence and you’ll look like you’re worth a million. Wear it with nothing beneath for a touch more sex appeal, or rock an easy camisole or bodysuit in a nude beige or white as a cover up. And give yourself the height that the trousers require with a killer pair of bright fuchsia heels. The finishing touch, a transparent bag with a bold print.
6. Never Mellow Yellow
The colour of the season, or hadn’t you heard?! Yellow is the brightest colour in our summer palette and one that is being embraced by the majority of brands, through accessories into outerwear. That’s why the yellow suit is the bold choice for the power-dresser this season. It hints that you know your trends, and that you’re confident enough to pull it off. This House of Holland blazer has been seen on celebrities and bloggers in recent months, and whilst the two pieces look fantastic as separates, together with the trousers they make a powerful fashion statement. Wear it oversized or cinch it in with a waist belt such as the latest from Valentino. And again, throw on the latest ‘It bag’ for all of your daily essentials.
As long as you rock your look with a confident attitude, the perfect pair of shoes and a lipstick that you love, you’ll look and feel more amazing than ever. With a little bit of self-belief and a killer outfit, we can all dress and feel like an absolute boss. Be sure to tag me in your outfit shots @inthefrow!
Styling, writing and model @inthefrow
Photography and edit by @kylegalvin_
Makeup by @Loouisehall
Hair by @Scissorgilbert