Help buying/choosing professional clothing (especially for women)

[Jessica Booker]

Thanks for the help!! Regarding tops - do you always have to wear shirts or are long sleeve high neck tops also ok?

They don't have to be long-sleeved - anything generally that covers the shoulders will be fine.

Tops don't need a high neck either - just avoid anything low cut/that shows cleavage.

 

[TC fiend]

Hi! I was wondering if wearing there would be any issue with wearing shoes, jewellery, or carrying a bag that is more recognisable? None of them are flashy but are clearly from certain brands and I was just hoping it would not give off a bad impression

If you’re talking a bag with an MK tag on it that’s fine, if it’s a bag with GUCCI printed very largely down the side I’d probably refrain. There’s nothing necessarily wrong with it but it might look a bit over the top for a vacation scheme.

 

[Jessica Booker]

Hi! I was wondering if wearing there would be any issue with wearing shoes, jewellery, or carrying a bag that is more recognisable? None of them are flashy but are clearly from certain brands and I was just hoping it would not give off a bad impression

Agree with @FS comments above.

Wearing a recognised brand isn't really an issue. Plenty of VS'ers will wear designer clothes that show it is such. They just tend to be fairly subtle and not too in your face.

With something like shoes, if we take something like Louboutins that are very obvious what they are and how much they are, I have only really seen them be worn for a special occasion (e.g. penultimate night social at somewhere swanky) rather than around the office day-to-day. I know some people can afford to wear these things day in day out (and oh do I envy them) but I would try to ensure there is a balance - you don't have to wear/carry tens of thousands of pounds of designer items each day, and it could be seen as a little crass if you do. However, on the flip side, there will be plenty of lawyers who wear things that are £££££ but that wouldn't be obvious that they are, unless you inspected them carefully. So it is just about getting that balance right I think.

 

[Jessica Booker]

Amazing! thank you both so


Amazing! Thank you both so much - the pieces I have in mind are definitely on the subtle side and I was just worried about being perceived negatively if it was noticed. Both of your advice have been super helpful

No - won't be a negative for wearing these type of things - people in the office will be wearing similar pieces. Its just about not being too "out there" or flashy with it, but the same could be said for many types of clothing, not just designer items.

 

[AOD]

Thank you all for sharing your opinions on this thread - really interesting read! I wanted to also share a tip that has been a lifesaver for me: go on Vinted/Depop or similar apps (not advertising/recommending anything, they are just the most popular ones I could think of) and sort by 'brand new' and look for certain brands that normally sell smart clothes. I did this and have bought amazing high quality brand new work clothes for a fraction of their normal price. This has saved me a lot of money because I had nothing to fit me properly after losing weight.
The only disadvantage to normal shops is that you will have to pay to return them - however, for the money you save you can just have them altered anyway!

 

[Alison C]

Actual pictures of "white shoe lawyer" preppy types - and some other fun images!

Fashion & the Law: Who Cares What Lawyers Wear? (Video)

We look at the history of legal fashion and how the pandemic and the push for diversity may be changing the norms of what lawyers wear to work.

news.bloomberglaw.com

 

[fran2948]

I have popped onto this thread in a post-exam/pre-vac scheme panic and it has been such a help. My question is about blazers. At school it was trained into me that being seen without a blazer is unacceptable (we were even reprimanded for it). I am planning to bring a blazer every day but how much should I be wearing it/ are there biases regarding this? Should I wear it during meetings but am okay to not wear it other times? My previous office was smart casual unless we were headed to court. Thank you in advance!

 

[Alison C]

I have popped onto this thread in a post-exam/pre-vac scheme panic and it has been such a help. My question is about blazers. At school it was trained into me that being seen without a blazer is unacceptable (we were even reprimanded for it). I am planning to bring a blazer every day but how much should I be wearing it/ are there biases regarding this? Should I wear it during meetings but am okay to not wear it other times? My previous office was smart casual unless we were headed to court. Thank you in advance!

It's a lively discussion, isn't it?

I'd just watch what the partners/associates/etc do. I always find it handy to have a jacket/blazer to throw on to make myself look a bit more polished but there is no pressure. It's about feeling the part. It's no longer obligatory! But you are right to err on the side of smarter. Also, air conditioning can be a nightmare and it's the most professional way to avoid getting a chill. Just try not to leave it on the bus, easily done if you aren't used to this way of dressing, but it sounds as if you are really on your game. Enjoy!

 

[Abii]

Hey all,

I have a couple of vac schemes coming up and I'm really struggling on the shoe front!

I used to wear heels daily however a lot has changed for me since covid and daily office trips and I now cannot wear heels, I also cannot wear really flat shoes with little support so pumps are out - what am I meant to wear?!

Would these be okay or will they be a little clunky/unprofessional? https://www.drmartens.com/uk/en_gb/1461-mono-black/p/14345001

anyone got any suggestions for something I can wear with skirts or dresses? happy to spend a little more on something decent as I'm also likely heading back to the office soon.

 

[Alison C]

Hey all,

I have a couple of vac schemes coming up and I'm really struggling on the shoe front!

I used to wear heels daily however a lot has changed for me since covid and daily office trips and I now cannot wear heels, I also cannot wear really flat shoes with little support so pumps are out - what am I meant to wear?!

Would these be okay or will they be a little clunky/unprofessional? https://www.drmartens.com/uk/en_gb/1461-mono-black/p/14345001

anyone got any suggestions for something I can wear with skirts or dresses? happy to spend a little more on something decent as I'm also likely heading back to the office soon.

Hi Abii

They are a bit studenty, but equally, you won't be refused a job because of them, it's just about how you feel. But if that's around your budget, you have plenty of leeway.

What about a loafer - these look pretty smart? https://www.modainpelle.com/shoes-c...oes-c46/ebrielle-black-patent-mocc-croc-p9821
Or Clarks - maybe a bit too flat for you? https://www.zalando.co.uk/clarks-slip-ons-black-leather-cl111e06j-q11.html
Or John Lewis own brand https://www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-partners-gina-leather-chain-trim-heel-loafers/p6022025
Or Zara (flat) https://www.zara.com/uk/en/flat-lea...detail-p11500810.html?v1=153033417&v2=2026736

Otherwise a mid-heel loafer? I'd search in shops such as Office, Dune, Jones Bootmakers, Kurt Geiger/Carvela, even Clarks. You basically want leather rather than suede (rain, though you can use Scotchguard protector or wear trainers for the commute).

Russell & Bromley always have good professional footwear that's a bit more stylish, and a good sale but not yet.

Gucci do really good block-heeled loafers which I know is over budget, but interesting for inspiration. (No, I am not suggesting you spend £600 at this point...) https://www.gucci.com/uk/en_gb/pr/w...GRro6Z4kozeX4JohI8xoCL9MQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

John Lewis have a pretty good shoe department for conservative and mid-priced options; M&S have also worked hard on this. A number of the high street stores such as Jigsaw, Reiss, Hobbs have workwear shoes with a bit of a twist but as you recognise, it's probably wise to stick to black for the moment.

Good but suede: https://www.zalando.co.uk/anna-field-leather-comfort-classic-heels-black-an611b0e6-q11.html

More suggestions from Zalando: https://www.zalando.co.uk/womens-shoes/?occasion=business

Also from La Redoute: https://www.laredoute.co.uk/pplp/100/157878/499/cat-501.aspx#srt=noSorting&facets=colourfamily*noir

These could be cute, you'd have to try them on to ensure you don't look like a china doll: https://www.johnlewis.com/charles-keith-double-strap-block-heel-mary-jane-court-shoes/p6067928

You could look at a closed-toe slingback but it's not as versatile.

If you actually have more of a medical thing going on, Sole Bliss is a British company who do stylish Spanish- and Italian-made shoes for people who need proper comfort (bunions/wide feet) https://solebliss.com/collections/heels/products/imogen-nude-leather https://solebliss.com/collections/heels/products/ingrid-black-leather Ecco also do softer leather shoes and this might be a place to look too. https://gb.ecco.com/en-GB/Women/Shoes/Heels/product/5642846533/ECCO-SHAPE-SQUARED-35?dfw_tracker=25315-5642847379&&param={trbo}&gclid=CjwKCAjwtIaVBhBkEiwAsr7-c_MwvptHf9cxzulB0rtPAr-2IHRa8dlDOXntvXqUWoVzWdijbklzRBoCkE8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds https://gb.ecco.com/en-GB/product/5...tvXqUWoVzWdijbklzRBoCkE8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Basically think plain, or with subtle embellishments like chains/snaffles, or even an ankle strap.

If you really feel you want something more masculine, or chunky, take a look at Grenson - which is from the Northampton tradition of British shoemaking and is a bit less studenty (and pricier) though they are definitely chunky still, and therefore not ideal: https://www.grenson.com/evie-black-shoes-for-women-in-hi-shine-leather/

Nina

Shop Nina, our womens loafers in black hi shine leather. Nina is a new loafer with a chunky saddle bit on our aggressive, chunky rubber sole that is lightweight and comfortable to wear. Free worldwide returns.

www.grenson.com

If you are in London, Covent Garden has pretty good shoe shops. Kensington High Street is also good and not as squashed as Oxford Street but if you can face the centre of town then you also might find something there.

LK Bennett apparently has a sample sale coming up - many people swore by the brand before it was bought up: https://www.themusicroom.co.uk/whats-on/lk-bennett-1

Good luck, remember your shoes are supposed to inspire you when you look down and manifest the new you (though obviously, they also need to fit!).

I hope that helps a bit!

 

[Abii]

Hi Abii

They are a bit studenty, but equally, you won't be refused a job because of them, it's just about how you feel. But if that's around your budget, you have plenty of leeway.

What about a loafer - these look pretty smart? https://www.modainpelle.com/shoes-c...oes-c46/ebrielle-black-patent-mocc-croc-p9821
Or Clarks - maybe a bit too flat for you? https://www.zalando.co.uk/clarks-slip-ons-black-leather-cl111e06j-q11.html
Or John Lewis own brand https://www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-partners-gina-leather-chain-trim-heel-loafers/p6022025
Or Zara (flat) https://www.zara.com/uk/en/flat-lea...detail-p11500810.html?v1=153033417&v2=2026736

Otherwise a mid-heel loafer? I'd search in shops such as Office, Dune, Jones Bootmakers, Kurt Geiger/Carvela, even Clarks. You basically want leather rather than suede (rain, though you can use Scotchguard protector or wear trainers for the commute).

Russell & Bromley always have good professional footwear that's a bit more stylish, and a good sale but not yet.

Gucci do really good block-heeled loafers which I know is over budget, but interesting for inspiration. (No, I am not suggesting you spend £600 at this point...) https://www.gucci.com/uk/en_gb/pr/w...GRro6Z4kozeX4JohI8xoCL9MQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

John Lewis have a pretty good shoe department for conservative and mid-priced options; M&S have also worked hard on this. A number of the high street stores such as Jigsaw, Reiss, Hobbs have workwear shoes with a bit of a twist but as you recognise, it's probably wise to stick to black for the moment.

Good but suede: https://www.zalando.co.uk/anna-field-leather-comfort-classic-heels-black-an611b0e6-q11.html

More suggestions from Zalando: https://www.zalando.co.uk/womens-shoes/?occasion=business

Also from La Redoute: https://www.laredoute.co.uk/pplp/100/157878/499/cat-501.aspx#srt=noSorting&facets=colourfamily*noir

These could be cute, you'd have to try them on to ensure you don't look like a china doll: https://www.johnlewis.com/charles-keith-double-strap-block-heel-mary-jane-court-shoes/p6067928

You could look at a closed-toe slingback but it's not as versatile.

If you actually have more of a medical thing going on, Sole Bliss is a British company who do stylish Spanish- and Italian-made shoes for people who need proper comfort (bunions/wide feet) https://solebliss.com/collections/heels/products/imogen-nude-leather https://solebliss.com/collections/heels/products/ingrid-black-leather Ecco also do softer leather shoes and this might be a place to look too. https://gb.ecco.com/en-GB/Women/Shoes/Heels/product/5642846533/ECCO-SHAPE-SQUARED-35?dfw_tracker=25315-5642847379&&param={trbo}&gclid=CjwKCAjwtIaVBhBkEiwAsr7-c_MwvptHf9cxzulB0rtPAr-2IHRa8dlDOXntvXqUWoVzWdijbklzRBoCkE8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds https://gb.ecco.com/en-GB/product/5...tvXqUWoVzWdijbklzRBoCkE8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Basically think plain, or with subtle embellishments like chains/snaffles, or even an ankle strap.

If you really feel you want something more masculine, or chunky, take a look at Grenson - which is from the Northampton tradition of British shoemaking and is a bit less studenty (and pricier) though they are definitely chunky still, and therefore not ideal: https://www.grenson.com/evie-black-shoes-for-women-in-hi-shine-leather/

Nina

Shop Nina, our womens loafers in black hi shine leather. Nina is a new loafer with a chunky saddle bit on our aggressive, chunky rubber sole that is lightweight and comfortable to wear. Free worldwide returns.

www.grenson.com

If you are in London, Covent Garden has pretty good shoe shops. Kensington High Street is also good and not as squashed as Oxford Street but if you can face the centre of town then you also might find something there.

LK Bennett apparently has a sample sale coming up - many people swore by the brand before it was bought up: https://www.themusicroom.co.uk/whats-on/lk-bennett-1

Good luck, remember your shoes are supposed to inspire you when you look down and manifest the new you (though obviously, they also need to fit!).

I hope that helps a bit!

Thank you so so much for taking the time to do this - definitely given me some inspiration.

I think loafers are probably going to be the best option for me, even a mid heel could be a problem, I sometimes have to use a walking stick.

I think a trip into town tomorrow is in order to find something, I'll take my stick and see what works - my local high street is actually Oxford street so I hope I'll find something!

 

[abcdefg123]

I know this is an old thread, but I have a few questions regarding clothing for vac schemes. Firstly, if I were to wear a navy skirt and navy shoes, what colour tights should I wear?

Secondly, does anyone have any ideas regarding the types of dress that can be worn on a vac scheme? I’ve always liked the idea of workwear dresses, but I don’t actually own any!

Thanks in advance!

 

[Jessica Booker]

I know this is an old thread, but I have a few questions regarding clothing for vac schemes. Firstly, if I were to wear a navy skirt and navy shoes, what colour tights should I wear?

Secondly, does anyone have any ideas regarding the types of dress that can be worn on a vac scheme? I’ve always liked the idea of workwear dresses, but I don’t actually own any!

Thanks in advance!

It isn't really a rule for the office, more general dress code (however, one I regularly ignore) that navy and black shouldn't be together, and so general consensus would be skin/tan coloured tights with navy shoes/skirt. However, a navy skirt with black shoes and black tights works in my opinion.

Most dresses will be fine as long as:

- They are not body-con dresses
- They are on the knee to mid-calf length
- They cover the shoulders
- They are not too low cut (although I often just wear a vest top underneath my dresses that are)

 

[abcdefg123]

It isn't really a rule for the office, more general dress code (however, one I regularly ignore) that navy and black shouldn't be together, and so general consensus would be skin/tan coloured tights with navy shoes/skirt. However, a navy skirt with black shoes and black tights works in my opinion.

Most dresses will be fine as long as:

- They are not body-con dresses
- They are on the knee to mid-calf length
- They cover the shoulders
- They are not too low cut (although I often just wear a vest top underneath my dresses that are)

Thank you! As a follow-up question, would this type of blouse be ok? Especially re covering the shoulders? Thanks https://shop.mango.com/gb/women/shirts-shirts/short-sleeved-satin-shirt_47077120.html?c=05

 

[Jessica Booker]

Thank you! As a follow-up question, would this type of blouse be ok? Especially re covering the shoulders? Thanks https://shop.mango.com/gb/women/shirts-shirts/short-sleeved-satin-shirt_47077120.html?c=05

Yes - that would be fine is paired with smart trousers or a smart skirt.

 

[HopefulFutureTrainee]

Following from this, does anyone know anything about the quality of clothes from Hawes and Curtis? I've never shopped there, but they seem to have good options for office clothing! thanks all