5 top tips from Belfast-based corporate stylist Mary McGuigan for creating the perfect spring / summer office look

Working in an office in the spring and summer months can be difficult when you are dressed in formal attire that can often be uncomfortable in the better weather.
By Tina Calder
Published 3rd Mar 2023, 17:06 BST
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And for most, dressing for the office means wearing the same version of an outfit over and over again for fear of stepping too far outside the company fashion policy.

Belfast-based corporate stylist and fashion influencer Mary McGuigan believes the spring and summer is the perfect time to mix up your office look and create a more individual style that suits you, and the weather.

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Mary, who can be found on Instagram as corporateandcreativeimage has the following tips for creating your perfect spring/summer office look.

Belfast-based corporate stylist and fashion influencer Mary McGuigan believes the spring and summer is the perfect time to mix up your office look.Belfast-based corporate stylist and fashion influencer Mary McGuigan believes the spring and summer is the perfect time to mix up your office look.
Belfast-based corporate stylist and fashion influencer Mary McGuigan believes the spring and summer is the perfect time to mix up your office look.

1. Layering

First of all, let's remember it’s good old Northern Ireland so swapping the sweaters for short sleeve shirts and blouses may not work straight away.

"Spring is our transitional season like Autumn so I always feel it is best to consider the art of layering. While you embrace tops in lighter fabrics remember to keep a good blazer handy, you may need it in the mornings but not so much in the afternoons.”

You can also opt for a light knit which wouldn’t require you additional layering. Pair with statement accessories, like a necklace or a scarf and bottoms such as wide-leg trousers.

"One of the most important things you need to consider when styling any outfit is to ensure what you are creating is comfortable," says Belfast-based corporate stylist and fashion influencer Mary McGuigan. Picture: Mathieu Decodts"One of the most important things you need to consider when styling any outfit is to ensure what you are creating is comfortable," says Belfast-based corporate stylist and fashion influencer Mary McGuigan. Picture: Mathieu Decodts
"One of the most important things you need to consider when styling any outfit is to ensure what you are creating is comfortable," says Belfast-based corporate stylist and fashion influencer Mary McGuigan. Picture: Mathieu Decodts

2. Tailored shirt dresses

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A tailored /shirt dress is a great alternative to suits for the office. Depending on your footwear, tights and boots will keep you warm in the cold and courts will keep you cool as we approach Summer.

3. Trench coat

A Mac trench coat, a wrap or a poncho are great alternatives to the winter coat while still helping you look professional. You can add a belt so that you look neater and tidier.

4. Comfort

“One of the most important things you need to consider when styling any outfit is to ensure what you are creating is comfortable and will work for sitting at your desk, meeting clients or going to events.”

5. Colour

Consider colours and whether the industry you work in allows for colour pops like bright green and magenta. This can be done through your accessories, shoes and jewellery so as not to overpower your professional image. If however, you work in a more authoritative industry like legal where navy, black and grey are your go-to, consider choosing a lighter material in your trousers, skirts and blazers.

Related topics:SpringBelfastInstagramNorthern Irelandsummer