Ask Angie: What to wear under formal business suits?

Laura J

Thanks Angie - and everyone -

I am revamping my wardrobe for a new job in Dubai. I will wear formal suits most days. I want to find tops to wear that are 1) either short sleeve or long sleeve 2) breathable 3) look polished and professional 4) doesn't show cleavage and 5) isn't sheer. I generally am cold in air conditioning. I want the look of the top to be tailored yet not tight. I am petite, but have a large chest and narrow shoulders. My body shape is hourglass or rectangle.

Any suggestions for cut, material, brand, or store are welcome! I will always be wearing either a pencil skirt that covers my knees or trouser pants. I have a black suit and will get others (probably navy and gray). I'm trying for polished and simple.

I will be in Boston this weekend with access to stores like Nordstrom Rack, Nordstrom, Ann Taylor, and Banana Republic. Thanks for any suggestions!

11 years ago

Dressing

4 replies

Latest reply was from Angie

Stuti

Active Member

Simple silk shell.
Looks and feels great without adding bulk under suit and cool enough in Dubai heat.

11 years ago

cinnamon fern

Veteran

Eileen Fisher silk jersey tees. They come in long and short sleeves and in petite sizes, in various colors. Comfy like a regular tee, but polished enough looking to wear with a suit. Lightweight and breathable, but not sheer, even in light colors. A little pricy, but they last forever, washed in a garment bag and hung to dry.

11 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

A lot of what I'm seeing in stores right now is sleeveless, which I'm assuming you don't want, just in case you need to take your jacket off. So that may be tricky given the timing of all the stores selling summer stuff. In general, BR and AT should be good places to look, as well as the workwear sections of department stores. Poly can look nice and is easy care but is sometimes stuffy; silk and cotton are more breathable but can be fussy to take care of. If a knit fabric is dressy enough I agree that a silk tee would be a great option.

What about the Ravello top from Boden - is it enough arm coverage?
http://www.bodenusa.com/en-US/.....o-Top.html

11 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Mock wrap tops, scoop neck knits, V-neck silky tees, and silk shells are the way to go.

It is harder to find sleeved layering tops at the moment though - most things are already sleeveless - which happens right around now. Take the jackets along when you so that you can fit them on over the tops. Make sure they work.

Nordstrom has a good selection at the moment - as does Ann Taylor and Boden. Laura's suggestion is great.

11 years ago

Category