Dress cool on Fridays

Whatever you choose to wear on weekends, keep a balance between office decorum and personal dress sense, says Banalata Bipani

Pastels are a safe bet for Friday dressing

Friday dressing has already come to be accepted as a part of the Indian corporate culture. Characterised by loose, colourful shirts with large armholes, soft collars and low back yokes — with trousers and shoes to match — it is designed to take the young male executive straight from the boardroom to the bar during weekends.

Career women do not have such luck. At best, designers might recommend a slightly brighter colour for jackets and blouses, or forsaking the sari for a skirt and blouse on Fridays. But by and large, the concept of relaxed formality in dressing has eluded working women.

It may not be so for too long though. For women are now being encouraged to bend the rules of corporate dressing, and match their male colleagues with colour and comfort on Fridays. The idea is, of course, to bring about creativity, relaxation and equality at the workplace.

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

Black, white and beige cholis, petticoats, dupattas, churidars and salwar-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.

Crisp white blouses. Black, brown or beige jackets with or without lapels (depending on your figure), and a skirt and trouser in matching colours.

Of course, much would also depend upon the job you hold. If you are the boss, be careful that your dress sense does not conflict with your work profile. Anything garish or fussy could project the image of a flippant person.

Always carry a string of pearls or gold chain in your handbag, 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 ethnic Indian wear, a simple salwar-kameez, styled like a tunic with a natural dupatta, is perfect. If it is a sari, then a cotton one must 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 sari wearers, cholis in black, white, beige and red are a must. They can be teamed with any sari. Also, wear minimum 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 weekdays.

For younger women in informal work positions, the options are even wider. 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 subordinates and male 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.

Footwear can be tricky though. Forget those strappy, stiletto heels, and 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.

Bags can be equally baffling. Should you carry a large, roomy bag with numerous compartments? Or will you go for a small handbag and a portfolio for the files? The latter is more sensible as the handbag can take care of feminine necessities like make-up, while the portfolio would carry the paperwork.

But then, this would also depend on what you have lined up for the evening after-hours. If you have no plans of returning home till the next morning, carry a small overnight bag with the essentials — nightwear, toilet articles, make-up, a change of clothes in crease-proof fabrics and, of course, an underwear. — MF

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