Dressing up for work today is much easier than it was 10 years ago.
Modern offices have more of a casual approach when it comes to the corporate working environment.

This translates as a change in the dress code as well, which is increasingly leaning towards a more semi-formal approach, rather than strictly formal, or then casual.

Take trousers, for instance. The semi-formal look is more 'in' at the moment, in terms of fabric, design and colours. Yarn-dyed stripes fashioned in light-weight fabrics are very trendy right now.

Formal trousers have also been witnessing a few 'semi-formal' adaptations by way of a low-slung waistline, asymmetric pocket openings and buttoned fly. This complements the casual yet formal office atmosphere.



Button down in these colours



Although a suit may still be the order of the day when it comes to the boardroom, shirts are seeing the emergence of rustic, neutral tones such as olive and walnut, in stripes and patterns that are suited to a semi-formal environment.
Aquatic shades, ranging from placid blues to iridescent greens, find a place in bold designs and fabrics that have a 'crushed' look. Even a pastel shirt and tie under your jacket will keep up with this colour trend.

The main fabrics of the season are linen and light cotton. The new liquid ammonia wash technology gives them a softer feel, a more polished appearance, and a lessened need of frequent ironing.


Caption: Even a pastel tie can do wonders for your appearance under a well-cut jacket.



Clean silhouettes



Keeping the semi-formal approach in mind, corporate womenswear at the moment has a clean, futuristic look to it that suits the ever-changing needs of today's business woman.
Summer and spring workwear includes not only formal silhouettes, but also casual and holiday clothes for the confident boss lady.

Aquatic hues of blue and green have a soothing effect on the mind despite hectic work schedules.


Caption: Women's workwear has taken on an appealing semi-formal approach.