Phuket Fashion – From dawn till dusk

PHUKET: Everyone has days that are scheduled to the max – overbooked and jam-packed with meetings, lunches, get-togethers and parties. For many women, the challenge is how to make one outfit work for everything that a busy schedule demands.

Maintaining great style throughout the day doesn’t come easy, but with a little planning, flexibility and resourcefulness, you’ll find a way to look fabulous whatever the occasion.

Shop for versatile pieces
Having adaptable pieces on hand is key for days that demand your nonstop attention, and will help make the transition a breeze. Shop for neutral and solid colors in classic patterns, like a green shift dress, a cropped blue cardigan or a maroon pair of trousers.

It’s important to choose styles that are office-appropriate if that’s where your day kicks off. Think about wide-leg or high-waist pants. Also, dresses or tops with cap sleeves and skirts that show off your curves but still come down to the knee. These pieces are classy, but chic enough for an evening look with the right shoes and accessories.

If you want to avoid looking too office drone-like, choose items that are jewel-toned or that have small patterns. Stay away from animal prints unless they are very subtle, and stick to pleasing designs like polka dots, stripes and florals.

Layers, especially lightweight fabrics, keep it conservative in an air-con office, and should easily let you transition into something that shows off a bit more skin for the evening.

Think about sequined or adorned cover-ups for cooler evenings, or even a denim or leather jacket to give your daytime dress an edgier feel. Remember that color coordinating multiple items in your wardrobe will make swapping pieces a lot easier after work.

Plan Ahead
Knowing what your day will bring is essential in arming yourself with the right pieces. If you know that you’ll be walking around a lot during the day, wear comfortable, smart shoes, and pack the heels away for later. Large bags work well for day and night. While it’s always good to err on the side of caution, this is one item that is okay to go bold with – even at work.

Think about the times you’ve been frustrated about what to wear. Now imagine what key elements would have solved the problem. Are there some wardrobe staples that are missing from your closet?

It also helps to look around and see what other stylish women are wearing to certain events. Make a note in your phone to shop for similar items that will transition easily from the beach to a party, errands to meetings, and everything in between.

Accessorize
Jewelry can play a major role in defining a look, no matter the occasion. For the office or errands, choose subtle elegance and simplicity. Stud earrings or a dainty chain necklace and a smart watch are all you need.

Stow away costume jewelry for evening looks – jewelry doesn’t take up much space in a bag, but it makes all the difference. Think about dangly stone earrings, a chunky metallic necklace, or an over-sized cocktail ring. Just a piece or two will instantly add glamor and evening flavor. Or adapt your style from day to night with a waist-cinching belt, which will add some shape to any evening look.

A change in step
Another reason to pack a larger bag is to hide away a change of shoes. Sandals or flats from your daytime look are easily swapped for a sleek pair of heels or boots for an after-work event.

Remember to be realistic about what the event or occasion is, and consider what’s comfortable. If you still want to wear heels for a long day of events, skip the stilettos and think about choosing a low thick-heel or wedge. Ankle boots will help avoid the blisters that come with strappy sandals.

Hair and makeup
Finally, along with nighttime accessories, makeup is easily brought along to help renovate your look for a party in the evening. Add a bit more drama to your eyes with dark liner and shadow, or pop on a pair of fake lashes for impact. A little lipstick and a quick “up do”, will add instant elegance.

It’s not always easy to go from day to night with one outfit, but the right foresight and wardrobe basics will help smooth the transition.

— Abby McMillin