Last week we featured dressing for the new professional you of 2012 and featured neutrals… greys, black and white in different textures such as velvet, lace and chiffon. This week we show you how colours can be layered with your neutrals for the office, or worn on their own to make a bold yet professional statement.

Colour can also be introduced in accessories; however, you must remember to maintain a professional look. Choose pieces that are acceptable for office wear; only persons working in a more casual work environment can get away with certain statement pieces.

Look 1 features a simple white tank and the black velvet skirt of last week, worn with a bright red blazer. A multicoloured necklace is also worn to introduce a bright turquoise pop.

Look 2 is a floral jacket worn over the grey sheath featured last week. Sydia traded in the black pumps she wore before for a bright pink to give the dress a totally different look.

Look 3 is the same floral jacket worn over the back tank and grey trousers of last week.

Look 4 is a simple sheath in bold red that has a tied waistband for added interest.

To make the sheath you will:

1. Cut front for the bodice.

2. Cut front and back of the skirt

3. Cut a 3-4 inch wide waistband for the front of dress, with an additional length that will wrap and tie in back

4. Join back pieces of blouse and skirt

5. Join the waistband to top and bottom pieces of front, making sure to remove the extra length (of waistband)

6. Join front to back at one side and half of the other side

7. Insert zipper

The tie in the back is entirely optional. You can choose to make the waistband a detail all around.

Model: Sydia Valentine

Make-up and photos: Angelie Martin-Spencer