From Drab to Fab -- How to Add Color to Your Work Wardrobe

Corporate black - for many of us, the workplace dress code always meant black, black, and more black. Today, though, it doesn't have to be that way. More and more workplaces are embracing color. Here are some ways to add color to your work wardrobe.

Solid Tops

Colorful knit tops or a jewel-tone silk blouse can add a splash of color to a blazer or suit. It's considered a good idea to go with solid colors here; jazzy patterns may not work too well.

Say It with Shoes

There are so many options for colorful shoes these days, and when you're talking color, the cheap ones are not necessarily more or less colorful than the expensive ones. Go for a pair of colorful pumps or jazzy flats, or even dress sandals (wear colorful toenail polish!). Unlike boots, pumps, flats, and sandals can be colorful without being distracting.

Necklaces and Jewelry

Put some sparkling color around your neck with necklaces. There are so many possibilities here, from polished glass beads to rhinestones on colorful cords. Stay away from tacky or heavy necklaces, but choosing something with a nice pop of color can dress up even a drab outfit.

Bracelets and earrings can be worn for the same reasons, adding a splash of color to business attire.

Handbags

Handbags are where you can bring a bit of whimsy and jazz into the workplace without catching a lot of flak. Patterns and colors can spice up a plain suit and show a bit of your personality. If you like, start small - carry a little handbag with pretty colors. Then, depending on your workplace atmosphere, maybe you can work up to a large, patterned handbag.

Scarves

Scarves were a workplace stand-by not too long ago, but you can bring them back in all kinds of ways. Folded scarves can work as a headband for your hair, or you can find various ways to tie them around your neck. You can also use them as a creative alternative to a belt. Solid colors might be a good place to start, or subtle patterns that match your work outfit.

Belts

Tucked-in shirts and elaborate belt buckles were popular in the 80s, but you can still dress up an outfit with a solid band of color around your waist. Belts can add color to pants or skirt outfits, and you can add a matching handbag for color coordination.

Colored Suits

If you want to really go for it, wear a solid-colored suit. To create the least controversy (if you have that kind of workplace), choose one where the style is fairly conservative and traditional, just colorful.