Personal Style | Best foot forward

I'm a list maker, that's just what I do. Whether I'm ticking off tasks from my to-do list at work or keeping a tab of the groceries I need to pick up, there's something rather calming about listing it down and working your way through it. Similarly, a few years ago, I had a list of prep questions to run through for job interviews. The story of how those prep questions even came about is an interesting one which I'll save for another day. Now back to where I started from. Among those self-written questions, was one which simply asked, 'What does fashion mean to you?' Clichéd? Most definitely. Did it appear in future job interviews? Numerous times. Thank you, prep list. 

My answer was crystal-clear and full of hopefulness, something you'd expect from a teenager on the brink of adulthood. Fashion wasn't in store windows or a handful of paper bags from a good sale day. It is in your reflection when you glance at the mirror before you leave home, it is the pencil skirt you pick for your business lunch, it is the image that you choose to put forth as to how the world sees you.

Next burgundy shirt {London} | Zara mustard jeggings | Lavie mustard bag [Previously seen here] | Accessorize necklace | Zara tan pumps [Previously seen here] | OPI 'Black Cherry Chutney' nail varnish | Rimmel 'Cutting Edge' lipstick [Previously reviewed here]

Photography: Leo Alemao / Style File

Only once I settled into a fashion job did I realize how true to life my answers were. Fashion isn't only the blazer that keeps you warm on a winter morning. It is a tiny fragment of your entire persona. And that persona, my lovelies, is one of those make-or-break factors as to how you are seen when you step into the world outside. All that stuff they say about putting your best foot forward is true and not only reserved for interview questions. 

Since then, I've learned a thing or two about projecting a polished look, whether I'm heading for a Monday morning meeting or a day out at brunch. This outfit is one of them where I've kept the structure slim and clean-cut, perfect for a corporate environment. I allowed myself to go a tad wild with the autumnal tones of burgundy and mustard, which merge harmoniously. A subtle plum eye makeup look, a deep berry lip and neutral pumps complete the look; making it the epitome of a prim yet vibrant office chic ensemble.

xo

Dayle