Persuasion Inc ZW: Dressing for your 20s

Your 20s can be quite a daunting time – taking up new roles equals new responsibilities and not enough time to do the things you really want to do – well for the average 20-year old that is – I would know. Being fashion forward can often take a back seat as you try to balance out establishing yourself and trying to make the most of your 20s. If fashion isn’t an innate thing for you or maybe it is however, a little advice on how breathe some fresh air into your everyday looks won’t hurt.

Put a spring in your step

Varsity is out and you now have to put on your big girl shoes as you make your way around the boardroom and seek to climb up the corporate ladder. Your attitude is everything when it comes to this – and since your shoes are taking you were you need to go they don’t have to be plain and boring. Now is the time to step into the office in bright unconventional heels because you’re too young to be conforming to black office shoes. Don’t get me wrong a black shoe will always be a classic-go-to however, you can keep those for closing important deals but on an everyday 8-5 let your shoes do the talking and have fun with it.

Up the ante

Now is the time you probably get plenty of invites to attend different events and even if you’re not getting any, dressing right can get you through the door. I’ve often heard people in fashion say, “Wear the clothes – don’t let the clothes wear you” and I totally agree. Trying out everything can go very wrong – so take a chill pill and listen to this. Be the girl who makes the most of what she’s got – it’s perfectly fine to find out what’s trending but switch it up- don’t follow the crowd, be the trendsetter. You might be asking, “How do I do that?” Simple – Always make the look your own – by adding personal touches that bring out your personality – that’s what usually sets people apart and you can be one of them.

Boyish

When it comes to denims – skinnies aren’t everything, swap them for boyfriend jeans which are the ultimate must-haves. Giving off effortless chic reactions – the boyfriend jean will say you know a lot about fashion but won’t let it run your life. Teamed with a statement tee – and bright coloured kicks – it borders on serving sports luxe for all to see. For casual date nights roll up your boyfriend jeans and team them with red stilettos and you’re set for life.

No bag – shame on you!

There’s a number of 20 something’s who wouldn’t know the inside of a handbag even if they were staring right at it and I ain’t pointing fingers. Bags are cool and very fashion forward and here I am to help a sista out. I’m not leaning towards the bigger bags but at least getting something to put your phone, makeup and cash in – will be a good start. Invest in a saddlebag which is a light carry on and uber- stylish right now. Internationally the saddlebag gets the style thumbs up and is best used for casual outings by young urbanites. Don’t get left out put a saddle on it already!!!

All kinds of jade

Jade seems to have won over a number of trend spotters and casters – it’s hard not to see why. Whether you like it or not jade stands out and a woman who wears jade well does too–whether it’s a long summer dress, a bodacious evening gown, or a pretty maxi skirt, jade is the hue. You can do no wrong in it- besides the usual fail –safe colours like black, white and nude – jade will add that fire to your look and get you off to a playful start.

Ruffle some feathers

Dresses with ruffles ooze joie-de-vivre and are perfect all year round. Considering that now is the time you head out and about – exploring what your city or what the world has to offer - you might as well do it in ruffles. Ruffled dresses are playful, fun, laidback and can put a smile on anyone’s face- it’s hard to hate on a girl in ruffled dress.

Beauty around the world

Look to fashion from all over the world for inspiration to add life to your everyday looks. As much as conformity can be comfortable – dare to be different and embrace Italian flair, French girl perfection, Moroccan vibrancy, Japanese diversity and so much more. This will open your eyes to what you clothes can really do for you – fashion knows no bounds and so should you.