The workwear update: A pussy-bow blouse

Aside from its innate elegance, the best thing about a pussy-bow blouse is its versatility. Not just the fact that you can wear it with anything (honestly – you really can), but also that you can dramatically change the mood of your look depending on how you style it: buttoned up and bow-tied, it’s prim and proper; undone and opened low, it’s louche and sexy. How to make it work for the office? Let us show you the way…

This is an understated spin on a tried-and-tested look. Reach for a black blouse, buttoned and tied, then pair it with a checked wrap-around skirt (the shape of the season). Add a Loewe handbag – our go-to label for ladylike-with-a-twist numbers – and a pair of simple over-the-knee boots to complete the look.

Toughen up the romantic overtones of this blush-colored blouse by layering a bold-shouldered, double-breasted blazer over the top. Wearing it with jeans will give it a more casual air, but stick to crisp indigo denim rather than a vintage wash to keep it polished.

To make leather pants office-appropriate, give them a heritage spin. Stick to tonal, autumnal hues – add a neutral blouse and throw a checked coat into the mix, for example. Finish with pristine white accessories for a contemporary, of-the-moment feel.

Sometimes you need a no-brainer outfit, something simple and effortless that just works. With that in mind, reach for a white blouse with forever appeal and wear it with a black sweater – scoop-necked to accommodate the bow – and add striped pants to keep things interesting.

Animal print is FW18’s runaway trend. Stray from the herd by opting for a bright color; it’s a less obvious choice than traditional leopard, but just as statement-making. Add a leather skirt and tough-girl coat with minimal black accessories to keep it chic.