Introduction

Welcome. You're listening to LINKS at Bain and Gray, a catalogue of podcasts centred on all things business support in the workplace. Our aim is to bring you interesting and relevant content that will keep you up-to-date and thriving in your role.

Emily: Good morning! Today, we’re joined by the wonderful Bella Hignett, a fashion stylist with an impressive background in fashion PR spanning 20 years. She has since transitioned into styling with great success. Bella, welcome!

Bella: Hello! How are you?

Emily: I’m great, thank you. How are you?

Bella: Quite warm, actually!

Emily: I know—it’s unbelievable! We complain when it’s too hot, and we complain when it’s too cold.

I’m so thrilled to have you here today. I know you’ve been excited about working with LINKS, engaging with our listeners, and participating in events and round tables with us. I wanted to take the next 10 to 15 minutes to tap into your expertise on all things fashion—although we could easily talk for hours!

Let’s get straight into it. At Bain and Gray, we work with candidates in office environments. What would you say are the essential wardrobe pieces for professionals like Office Managers, PAs, and Secretaries? What makes up the perfect office capsule wardrobe?

BUILDING A CAPSULE WARDROBE

Bella: The landscape of office fashion has changed drastically since COVID. Pre-pandemic, workplace attire was fairly rigid—suits for men, and tailored skirts or trousers with heels for women. It was essentially a uniform, separate from our personal style.

Post-COVID, things have relaxed significantly. Office fashion now leans towards business casual, where the focus is on looking polished and professional while still feeling like yourself. Comfort and practicality are key, especially when considering factors like air conditioning and fluctuating temperatures.

For a modern office wardrobe, I’d recommend:

  • A black or grey blazer—a versatile staple.

  • A matching trouser suit in neutral tones.

  • A classic white shirt—which, surprisingly, is quite hard to find in the perfect fit!

  • A pencil skirt in black—it’s timeless and can be dressed up or down.

  • A midi skirt—particularly flattering when high-waisted, as it highlights the slimmest part of the waist.

  • A well-fitted dress, ideally belted to define the waist.

  • A classic trench coat—a must-have outerwear piece.

Emily: I love that you still recommend a pencil skirt! I thought it might be considered outdated, but it sounds like it’s still a great option.

Bella: Absolutely! You can style it with a crisp t-shirt and blazer or a fitted shirt. High-waisted pieces are particularly flattering. If you're conscious about your shape, remember that the smallest part of our torso is just under the bust—so highlighting that area is key.

Emily: That’s a great tip!

APPROPRIATE FOOTWEAR IN THE OFFICE

Emily: I have to ask about shoes. In our office, nearly everyone wears trainers now, which pre-COVID would have been unheard of! Even I’ve embraced a smart pair of white leather trainers that I now wear with suits for client meetings. What’s your take on this shift?

Bella: Trainers have become a staple, but there’s still a balance to strike. The key is keeping them polished and structured. Leather trainers are perfect for a smart-casual look, whereas graphic Converse or casual sneakers wouldn’t work as well in a professional setting.

Emily: Exactly! And they’re just so comfortable.

Bella: Comfort is a huge factor now. Many people are opting for wedge trainers for a bit of height.

Emily: I recently bought a pair with a slight platform—being 5'3", I love the added height!

WHERE TO SHOP FOR WORK CLOTHES

Emily: The retail landscape is huge. Where would you recommend for workwear?

Bella: It depends on budget, but here are my go-to picks:

  • Affordable options: H&M—if you choose carefully, you can find great basics like tailored trousers and white shirts for under £100.

  • Mid-range brands: Zara, Mango, Cos, & Other Stories, and Arket offer great office staples with a modern twist.

  • Higher-end brands: Massimo Dutti, Reiss, ME+EM, and Hush cater to those looking for investment pieces.

Many brands have adapted to the rise of business casual by introducing office-appropriate collections, which is fantastic.

Emily: I remember when workwear and casualwear were completely separate, but now they seamlessly blend together.

Bella: Exactly! And transitioning an outfit from day to evening is easy with the right accessories—think statement jewellery, a bold lipstick, or a pair of heels.

HOW TO DRESS FOR AN INTERVIEW

Emily: For our listeners, especially those new to the workforce, what would be your go-to outfit recommendation for a job interview?

Bella: It depends on personal style, but I’d suggest two options:

  • A double-breasted blazer in grey or black, paired with a camisole (nothing too revealing) and cigarette trousers. A structured look always makes a strong impression.

  • A smart jumpsuit—fitted but not overly tight, with a cinched waist for definition.

  • For shoes, I’d always opt for a closed-toe court shoe—a timeless, professional choice.

Emily: It’s interesting how some traditional rules still apply, like avoiding excessive jewellery or chipped nail polish.

Bella: Absolutely! Attention to detail is key—your nails, hair, and accessories all contribute to a polished look. Keeping it simple and elegant is always the safest bet.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Emily: This has been so insightful, Bella! I could talk to you for hours, but I’ll save more topics like sustainability, second-hand shopping, and wardrobe recycling for another episode.

Bella:I’d love that! Thank you so much for having me.

Emily: Thank you, Bella. Have a lovely day!