how to make this dress more professional

[Deleted]

I bought this dress but it needs more coverage for work (arms, back).   Any photos, links, specific ideas for what I could do?

link

[blondemoment123]

How about a light weight blazer?

[gennyu]

May 16, 2017 16:51:20 GMT -5 @blushnbashful said:

I bought this dress but it needs more coverage for work (arms, back).   Any photos, links, specific ideas for what I could do?

link

The dress as is would be very appropriate summer attire in my office, but might be chilly with the A/C.

Are you looking for coverage for warmth or formality?

If you just want warmth, I think this bolero-style cardigan would be cute.  Otherwise I would go with a light-weight blazer as suggested above.

[Deleted]

To interact with clients - so more formality. But a stiff boring solid blazer kind of bores me.

This isn't something I typically wear so it's out of my comfort zone.

[larzhope]

my go to is always a blazer. if you are doing a solid dress you could get away with a fun striped blazer or a pattern. The other option would be a cardigan but I personally am not a fan, they hang funny on me.

[gennyu]

May 17, 2017 17:11:25 GMT -5 @blushnbashful said:

To interact with clients - so more formality. But a stiff boring solid blazer kind of bores me.

This isn't something I typically wear so it's out of my comfort zone.

What do you typically wear?

Honestly - if you want more coverage you don't really have many options besides blazer or sweater...you could try a crisp white button-down underneath but I think that might look awkward in the back.

If coverage is not the issue so much as formality you could add a wide belt & coordinating pumps and some conservative jewelry (pearl studs, etc.). 

Here's a Pin that shows all of my suggestions in one example lol:

[mrspez07]

YOu could also look at a short sleeve jacket/blazer. They're a bit more summery than a long sleeve blazer.

[dottyblue]

I agree that this dress is perfectly professional all on its own, but I think you are limited to a jacket or blazer or cardigan.

That said, you have so many options other than a "boring solid blazer".

Ann Taylor's site alone has many options:

 



Any of those jackets break the boring blazer mold and can add a pop of color or style to the dress.  I love the dress!  Take it with you to a Nordstrom or even an Ann Taylor store and ask a sales person to help you find something to go with it.

And make sure you post pics once you settle on something.

[treedimensional]

May 17, 2017 17:11:25 GMT -5 @blushnbashful said:

To interact with clients - so more formality. But a stiff boring solid blazer kind of bores me.

This isn't something I typically wear so it's out of my comfort zone.

Business attire should not be edgy or trendy. Save the fashion statements for after work and get a classic blazer.