Stylist Michaela Dosamantes shares advice on workwear essentials, layering with personality, and where to splurge versus save.
The New York Times street-style photographer Bill Cunningham once said, “Fashion is the armor to survive the reality of everyday life.” With so many of us back in the office full-time or navigating hybrid schedules, what to wear feels tricky. We’re spoiled after years of “soft pants,” so it’s about building on what we already have to create formulas that make mornings easier. Stylist Michaela Dosmantes can relate. As a working mom and small business owner, she’s put together some ideas for a sustainable work wardrobe.
There’s a reason women all over the world want a bit of Parisian chic in their lives. The French know that investing in a foundation of quality basics in neutral tones will set the rest of your wardrobe up for success. “Office attire and how we dress for work has changed, especially for women in more metropolitan areas,” notes Michaela. “It’s still about polish, but we’re seeing a shift towards better quality, multi-functional pieces, and easy-care fabrics.”
Michaela’s top picks from the spring collection include a well-cut trench coat, like this Save The Duck style made from recycled water bottles. The Slim Tobie Linen Blazer and new Pleated Wide Leg Linen Trouser will serve you well as a suit or separates, as will the Bryce Recycled Cashmere Tee made from 100% recycled fibers. The Bixby Organic Cotton Poplin Shirt and Eunice Skirt are timeless, and she’s never met a loafer she didn’t like. This slide version by Alohas is an excellent value.
LAYERING WIITH PERSONALITY
Michaela looks at three key elements to make any professional outfit feel like you.
1. Prints & Color: Incorporating contrasting colors, unique textures, and prints gives an outfit depth and interest. “I’m obsessed with the Mandarin Toile print for spring. It’s bold, but the pastoral print has such a sense of tradition. Plus, the color mix would complement any neutral you have.”
2. Accessories: They’ve been called the exclamation point of a woman’s outfit, and for good reason. Delicate earrings, like the SOKO Petite Bow Earrings, help frame the face on a video call, while an armful of bangles and bracelets, such as the SOKO Mixed Shapes Stacking Cuffs, will make a more minimalist look stand out.
3. Bags and Shoes: This Torre 01 Reversible Tote from Lance Pierres was designed to create the least amount of waste possible and fit everything you need for the day, including a laptop. Even better, it’s fully reversible so that you can double the mileage. When it comes to shoes, aside from the loafers mentioned above, Michaela is a big fan of the Alohas Rosalind Leather Ballet Flats. “The cut-out gives them an interesting look, and the flexible sole ensures they’re super comfortable.”
WHERE TO SPEND, WHERE TOO SAVE
“I always think about cost-per-wear,” says Michaela. When you buy a classic piece, such as a topcoat or a pencil skirt, buying the best quality you can makes sense. These items will have a place in your wardrobe for years, so the higher price tag gets lower every year you have them.
The best places to save are on pieces with a shorter shelf life, very bold/memorable prints, and season-specific items like a heavy wool blazer. And don't forget about Amour Vert's resale marketplace ReAmour where you can find pre-loved styles for incredible prices.