The art of powerdressing at work for modern moms

Just because you've become a mom doesn't mean you have to be boring at work

POWER-dressing isn’t what it used to be. Back in the day, professional women were trapped in dull business attire, even when they attended after work events.

However, in today’s more colorful corporate world, you shouldn’t limit yourself to the basic black and pearls dress code. New options include colorful blazers in different fabric textures, gorgeous scarves and accessories, and must-have bags that are both functional and stylish.

After all, just because you've become a mom doesn't mean you've become boring. It doesn't hurt to keep it interesting in the board room. And, really, do we need an excuse to dress up at work?

Take Michelle Obama for example–she shows moms that they can wear bold, fashionable outfits and still be taken seriously. She has almost singlehandedly revolutionized the concept of power dressing rejecting the idea that clothes in a business setting must conceal femininity, minimize individuality or function as corporate armor, proving that power can be pretty.

Belgian brand Hedgren, a brand of highly functional casual bags and travel gear, recently hosted its first annual “Style Fair” in Greenbelt 3, which aimed to further educate guests on how to enhance all aspects of their personal styles—moms or not. Five major stations were setup to provide comprehensive advice in all areas to those who participated: grooming, hair, make-up, styling (clothing and accessories) and personality development workshops.

Remember that a sophisticated professional look is important to success. Here are some more tips and tricks on how to spice up your ensemble day after day at work:

1. 
   Don’t wear all black to work
   Use dark colors as a staple in your wardrobe but always add a burst of color, be it in the form of a top under a dark jacket or even a bold accessory. Those with not enough color in their wardrobe are perceived as being unadventurous, and dark colors tend to bring the energy level down.

2. Remember the hem
   The rule for hemlines and heels is: The wider the hem, the lower the heel. Don’t pair wide leg trousers with stilettos. It’s simply not chic. One wouldn't wear a wide, bohemian tiered skirt with heels but rather with flats. Length is very important. Always hem trousers if they’re too long. Don’t let your pants and dresses get caught in the backs of your shoes because it looks sloppy and will ruin your clothes. For jackets, make sure the hem doesn’t end at the widest part of the hips. It broadens the hips.

3. Be groomed to the tee
   Wear minimal make up. Cut and blow-dry hair into a clean shape. Get a manicure or make sure your fingernails are at an appropriate length and, more importantly, clean. Likewise, veer away from colors that are too shocking. Finally, be sure to wax your upper lip and make sure to pluck eyebrows.

4. Seal your look with the perfect bag
   To complete your power dressing look, you need a bag that’s stylish and functional. Hedgren has a variety of styles to choose from for the modern practical mom that’s ready to take over the world. Known for its high-quality and equally functional bags and travel gear, Hedgren has been a favorite among professionals who want bags that they can depend on to pass the test of time.