Buchanan Galleries

Fashion stylist and writer Caroline Phipps-Urch has worked in the industry for the last 12 years.  Whether it's been back stage at a fashion show in London, Paris or Milan, styling the latest trends or writing for a national magazine, she's picked up a thing or two about style and beauty.  Each month she shows how to work a key fashion look...

Work wear has evolved over the last ten years. Although suits are not worn as much these days in the office, they are usually expected in the corporate business environment and for particular events or meetings across all industries. Our adaptation in recent years to wearing smart, casual clothes to work has left us with a lack of knowledge on how to wear a suit. There are a few simple rules you can follow to ensure you don't look sloppy.

Sizing is key - not all brands adhere to the same sizing rules. This goes for menswear and womenswear. Most importantly it depends on where the garment is made, as different countries have different sizing systems. Don't automatically assume you'll be your normal size when trying on a brand you're not familiar with. You may have to go up or down a size. Also consider the fact that alterations may be needed.

Austin Reed recommends:

1. You buy a second pair of trousers or skirt to alternate and extend the life of your suit.

2. Check the suit shoulders of the jacket 'hug' yours and do not extend beyond your natural frame.

3. Lastly make sure the jacket is sitting flat and not pulling when done up.

Other key tips include, for men, ensuring your shirt cuffs sit about half an inch out from the jacket and you should only be able to get one finger between the collar of your shirt and your neck. If you're wearing a three-button suit only do up the top two buttons of the jacket. Two button suits are more classic than a one button, which suits a longer, leaner frame and looks more contemporary.

Ladies, if you're short, go for a skirt that sits just above the knee or straight leg trousers. Both will help elongate your body. If you need definition in the waist, go for a fitted jacket but if you're trying to hide your hips go for a longer almost A-line shaped jacket. If however you have a large bust, aim for a fitted, deep V shaped jacket.

Attention to detail is also important. Polish your shoes to ensure your final look is smart, not sloppy. Ladies, make sure you don't have any ladders in your tights, gentlemen, wear matching socks and avoid gimmicky ties.

If you feel a suit is soulless, then stamp your identity on the look by adding some colour. You don't have to go for the timeless classic white shirt if that's not you. Women can go for simple, lightweight tops and knitwear and for men there are hundreds of different tie and shirt combinations. If you're unsure what works, ask a sales assistant, they know will know what colours are meant to be go with what suit and are part of that particular collection. You'll also be able to draw on their wealth of knowledge and expertise.

Finally, and most importantly, make sure you feel comfortable. There's nothing worse than not feeling yourself in clothes that you are wearing. A suit should make you feel confident and ready to face anything the work environment throws at you. It also exudes a positive, professional image.

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