Dressing up for business
As all businesswomen know, good styling is key to creating a favourable first impression.
Newcomers to the scene had a change to learn the best way of dressing at a recent workshop organised by Preedaporn Saengseeruengrong, brand manager of Giordano Ladies Thailand. The event also saw the presentation of the brand’s spring and summer collection called, “A Tour of Explorations” with three celebrities, Apinara Srikarnchana, Porama Raiva, and Ploychompoo Umpuch sharing their secrets on dressing confidently for those allimportant business meetings.
Known for its minimal elegance, Giordano’s new collection is divided into “Day and Night” styles. A first series of outfits is both minimal and modern with a base palette of white, black, grey, and beige. Another series highlights the doublepleated grey suit fabric skirt and a pleated-detail trench coat. A beige cotton knit top and skirt is made of lightweight, airy fabric, making it perfect for daytime wear, while the black tulle doubleknit tank top paired with flared skirt goes down a treat at night.
“Rainforest” simulates the colourful plants with key colours mustard, frappe beige, navy blue and teal, while natural fabrics like cotton and linen convey a sense of cool through meticulous cutting details featuring colourblocking designs. Highlights include a loose shortsleeved top with longer hem in the back to pair with culottes and floral edge tank top with black lasercut detailing on the hem.
Apinara says she considers what’s appropriate in deciding what to wear. “With foreigner customers, I’ll dress in a way that appeals to their cultures. For example, I will wear a red outfit to meet Chinese clients, and wear monotones to meet Japanese clients. My key item that I always carry around with me is a handbag. A good handbag can enhance a total look.”
Porama, who works both in the family business and runs her own company with friends, says she tries to look smart and sophisticated for business meetings. “When meeting with seniors, I like to wear a pencil skirt with tank top and a blazer. My must-have item is a pair of high heels because they make me more confident.”
Scion of the Mall Group, Ploychompoo Umpuch, said she focuses on a professional look, “To increase my confidence when meeting with clients, I have to look professional. I regularly pick an oversized suit or a jacket. They create a smart and more sophisticated look but are not too formal so don’t make clients feel uncomfortable.”
