Why Karen Millen Is My New Go-To Workwear Brand | InStye.co.uk

Published on InStyle.co.uk, 1st November 2017

Having recently moved office to Canary Wharf, I've become slightly obsessed with just how bad some workwear is. From ill-fitting suits, to patent court heels paired with bobbly tights and, of course, the commuter go-to of pencil skirts teamed with trainers, my WTF reaction tallies at at least one sartorial disaster a day. But at the same time, I know just how hard the term workwear is to navigate, especially when it comes to a more office-based environment. The need to look appropriate for the myriad of demands your job throws up - presentations, pitches and even work drinks can make even the most confident among us slightly tense. Then there's the dress codes that are bandied about - smart business, corporate, smart casual - they look ridiculous written down on paper, never mind attempting to interpret them for real life. It's easy to see why so many opt for a uniform of a black trouser suit or shift dress, day in and day out. But given that research has shown that first impressions are made within three seconds of meeting someone, it's not an area to be overlooked.

Working in fashion I'm pretty lucky when it comes to office wear and dress codes. Thanks to Balenciaga, Off-White and Vetements, trainers, jeans and hoodies are all massively on-trend. But that doesn't mean that I don't feel under pressure to look smart. One of the reasons I love my job is that no week is ever the same, but that also means at least once a week I end up standing in front of my wardrobe pulling it apart. From 'relaxed' breakfast presentations with designers to 'cocktail attire' store openings with CEOs of luxury brands, I know when I get dressed in the morning I'm going to need whatever I'm wearing to 'Work, Work, Work' as Rihanna sings. But I also don't want to look like I'm a candidate starring in The Apprentice.

So I'm pretty chuffed to reveal that I have found a brand that has this balance nailed. And, in the campaign against terrible workwear, I'm happy to share it, even shout about it, so here goes... drumroll... my new 9-5 go to is: Karen Millen. Yep, the much loved brand of the early 2000s is back with a corporate cool bang. From silky draped tops to simple knits and perfectly cut white shirts, I'd feel confident recommending it to anyone of my friends who I describe as having proper jobs i.e. one that involves being at a desk by 9am, not wearing trainers and actually knowing how to use keyboard shortcuts for Excel.

Here's what I'm loving from Karen Millen right now...

The Cool Girl's Take On A Shirt Dress

This is one of those dresses that once you have it, you'll wonder how you ever managed without it. Its navy hue is less harsh than black and will work just as well in the depths of winter with a red roll neck underneath as it will in summer sans tights. Whilst classic in design, the rolled up sleeves and cuff detailing, alongside its side pockets, add a modern twist. It's also super flattering, with a removable belt and satin fabric that literally skims over the body.
For evening I'm a massive fan of a dress over jeans and this version works really well. Here, I've worn it open over an old slogan t-shirt (find similar here) and I love the contrast of fabrics. The flowly fabric is also excellent for twirling come party season.

The Instant Pep Up

Accessories are a great way of adding pizzazz to a workwear look and this bag, with its tangerine hue, nails it. Made from supple leather, it feels really luxe and will age well over time because, let's face it, who can really afford a new handbag every six months? This bag is also really practical without looking overly functional. Inside you'll find plenty of zip pockets whilst its roomy enough to hold your kindle and makeup bag. The leather strap is detachable, which means, come evening time, it can multi-task as a clutch that fits way more than just your credit card and I-phone. 

The Perfect Boardroom To Bar Heel

I love the go faster stripe that wraps itself around these heels. At just over 2 inches they're a manageable height, meaning you won't have to do that awkward change of shoes around the corner of the tube station. They're also really versatile, looking just as good here with jeans as they do with a bare leg, and they'd also look super chic with a tailored black trouser.

So there you have it. Workwear that is corporate, cool and totally chic. Plus completely versatile. Now, that's my kind of investment.