Friday Dressing for Women!
By Saloni Kaul

FOR some strange reason, Friday Dressing has come to be associated with menswear. Characterised by loose shirts with large armholes, soft collars and low back yokes — with trousers and tie to match — it is supposed to take the young corporate executive from boardroom to bar during the weekend.

Working women have, however, never had such luck. At best, designers might recommend a slightly brighter colour for jackets and blouses, or forsaking the saree for a skirt and blouse on Fridays. But by and large, the concept of relaxed formality in dressing has eluded women.

It may not be so for too long though. For already, women are being encouraged to bend the rules of corporate dressing (if not break them) and match their male colleagues with colour and comfort on Fridays. The idea is, of course, to bring about creativity, productivity and happiness at the workplace.

Here are a few ‘must-haves’ to brighten your weekend:

• Black, white and beige cholis, petticoats, dupattas, churidars, salwars and kurtas for mix‘n’ match options.

• Lots of scarves as well as black and brown belts.

• Black, white or beige body suits for a quick change to formal wear with trousers or skirts.
  

• A crisp white blouse.

• Black, brown or beige jackets with or without lapels (Depending on your figure) and a skirt and pair of trousers in the same colours.

Of course, much would also depend upon the job you hold. If you are part of the management, make sure that your dress sense does not conflict with your work as anything garish could project the image of a flighty, flippant person.

Always carry a string of pearls or gold chain, which could turn your daywear into an evening ensemble. But there should be no bangles, necklaces or ornate bindis as accessories during work. Shoes should be sensible and comfortable.

If you are into western wear, a smart jacket teamed with a trouser or skirt is perfect for Fridays. They could be worn with a blouse or loose shirt, while a scarf could be optional. Should you have a busy day ahead, settle for crease-proof fabrics. Cottons are always cool, but need a lot of care.

In ethic Indian wear, a simple salwar-kameez styled like a tunic with a dupatta is perfect. If it is a saree then opt for a cotton one. It should be crisply starched and in a simple design. Avoid loud floral motifs, heavy silks and large borders. They attract too much attention in the workplace.

The colour palette for Friday Dressing would depend upon the corporate culture, work ambience, your job profile and age. Muted shades of beige or navy blue are, however, safe bets. You need to also keep churidars/salwars in black and white as these can be matched with any kameez or kurta.

For saree wearers, cholis in black, white, beige and red are a must-have. They can be teamed with any saree. Also, wear a minimum of jewellery and present a well-groomed face and hairstyle. Do not change your make-up from what your colleagues are accustomed to seeing you in during the rest of the week.

For younger women in informal work positions, the options are even wider. And so are the risks of going overboard. Whatever you choose to wear on weekends, keep a balance between office decorum and personal dress sense — or else, your colleagues may stop taking you seriously.

Accessories are very important in Friday Dressing as these make all the difference between a cold business-like look and casual formality. Scarves, necklaces and camisoles can work wonders and should form an essential part of a working woman’s wardrobe.

Choosing footwear can be tricky though. Forget those strappy, stiletto heels, instead go for a good pair of comfortable shoes. Weekends are right for black, white and beige shoes/sandals made of soft leather in a style and colour that looks sporty. Avoid flashy stuff and keep neutrals for normal working days.

Again selecting bags can be quite baffling. Should you carry a large, roomy bag with numerous compartments or should you go for a small handbag and portfolio for the files? The latter is a more sensible choice as the handbag can take care of feminine necessities like make-up while the portfolio will carry the paperwork.

But then, this would also depend on what you have lined up for the evening. If you have no plans of returning home during the weekend, carry a small overnight bag with the essentials — nightwear, toilet articles, make-up, a change of clothes in crease-proof fabrics. (MF)