How to Style Ann Taylor Dresses for a Professional Look

Ann Taylor is known for its collection of sophisticated and stylish dresses, making it a go-to brand for women who want to look polished and put-together in professional settings. Whether you’re heading to the office, an important meeting, or a business lunch, Ann Taylor dresses provide the perfect foundation for a chic, professional look. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to style Ann Taylor dresses to create a flawless and professional ensemble.

1. Opt for Classic Silhouettes: The Sheath and Shift Dress

When it comes to professional attire, classic silhouettes like the sheath and shift dress are always a winning choice. Ann Taylor offers a variety of these styles, which are known for their flattering, sleek cuts that create a polished and timeless look.

• Sheath Dresses: A sheath dress is a perfect option for a professional look. It fits close to the body, providing a structured and tailored appearance. Pair it with a fitted blazer and pointed-toe pumps for a chic office look.

• Shift Dresses: A shift dress offers a looser fit while maintaining sophistication. It’s ideal for a business casual environment. Style it with a belt to define the waist or add a cardigan for a bit of layering and warmth.

Pro Tip: Stick to neutral colors like navy, black, or grey, or go for jewel tones to add a pop of color without straying too far from a professional palette.

2. Layer with a Tailored Blazer

A blazer is a staple when styling Ann Taylor dresses for a professional environment. Layering a well-tailored blazer over your dress instantly elevates the look, providing a polished finish that’s perfect for meetings or client presentations.

• Structured Blazers: Ann Taylor offers a variety of blazers that complement their dresses beautifully. Choose a fitted blazer that creates clean lines, and tuck the dress into the blazer if it has a more relaxed fit.

• Double-Breasted or Single-Breasted: Both styles work well for a professional setting. Double-breasted blazers offer a more traditional, authoritative look, while single-breasted blazers provide a sleek and contemporary style.

Pro Tip: For a chic touch, opt for a blazer in a contrasting color, like black over a navy dress, to break up the monotony and add visual interest.

3. Add a Belt to Define Your Waist

If your Ann Taylor dress has a more relaxed fit, such as a shift or A-line dress, adding a belt can instantly define your waist and create a more polished look. A belt adds structure to the outfit, giving it a more tailored appearance.

• Wide Belts: For a more dramatic effect, try a wide belt to cinch the waist. This adds an element of style and can give you a more hourglass shape.

• Thin Belts: A thin, sleek belt works well with more minimalist dresses and can add a subtle touch of elegance to the look.

Pro Tip: When adding a belt, choose one that matches or complements the color of your dress for a cohesive and professional look.

4. Pair with Classic Footwear

The right shoes can make or break an outfit, especially when it comes to professional dressing. When styling Ann Taylor dresses for work, opt for classic footwear that balances comfort and elegance.

• Pointed-Toe Pumps: Pointed-toe pumps in neutral colors like black, beige, or navy work perfectly with Ann Taylor dresses. They elongate the legs and provide a sophisticated finish.

• Flats: If you’re on your feet a lot during the day, opt for a pair of stylish flats. Look for shoes with a pointed toe or elegant embellishments to maintain a professional vibe.

• Block Heels: For a comfortable yet stylish alternative to classic pumps, block heels are an excellent choice. They add height and stability while keeping your outfit grounded and chic.

Pro Tip: Choose shoes that are both stylish and comfortable, as you’ll be wearing them for long hours.

5. Accessorize with Subtle Elegance

Accessories can take your professional look to the next level. However, when styling Ann Taylor dresses for work, it’s important to keep accessories understated and elegant.

• Simple Jewelry: Opt for minimalist jewelry, such as stud earrings, a delicate bracelet, or a simple necklace. A statement watch can also add a touch of sophistication without being too flashy.

• Structured Handbag: A structured handbag, such as a leather tote or satchel, can enhance the polished appearance of your Ann Taylor dress. Choose a neutral color like black, navy, or brown for versatility.

• Scarves: A lightweight silk scarf can add an elegant touch to your ensemble. Drape it over your shoulders or tie it around your neck for a sophisticated finish.

Pro Tip: Keep accessories to a minimum. Over-accessorizing can distract from the professionalism of your look, so choose one or two key pieces that complement your outfit.

6. Experiment with Prints and Textures

While solid colors are a safe bet for a professional setting, adding subtle prints or textures to your Ann Taylor dress can make your outfit stand out without being too bold.

• Stripes and Polka Dots: A subtle stripe or polka dot print can add visual interest without looking too playful. Stick to neutral colors or muted patterns for a more professional appearance.

• Textured Fabrics: Look for dresses made from textured fabrics like tweed, brocade, or jacquard. These materials add depth to your outfit, making it look more sophisticated and refined.

Pro Tip: If you choose a printed dress, balance it with solid accessories to keep the overall look polished and professional.

7. Choose Appropriate Hemlines

When styling Ann Taylor dresses for a professional setting, hemlines matter. Aim for hemlines that are knee-length or just above the knee for a work-appropriate look. A midi dress can also be a great choice for a more conservative workplace.

• Knee-Length Dresses: A classic knee-length dress is universally flattering and professional. It provides enough coverage while still allowing for ease of movement.

• Midi Dresses: Midi dresses can be a more elegant option, offering full coverage while remaining stylish and sophisticated.

Pro Tip: Avoid overly short hemlines or dresses that are too revealing in professional settings. Opt for dresses that offer a balance of coverage and style.

Conclusion

Styling Ann Taylor dresses for a professional look is all about creating a chic, polished appearance while remaining comfortable and confident. By focusing on classic silhouettes, adding a tailored blazer, defining your waist with a belt, and choosing the right accessories, you can effortlessly elevate your look. Whether you’re attending meetings, conferences, or just heading to the office, Ann Taylor dresses provide the perfect foundation for your professional wardrobe. With a few styling tips and tricks, you’ll be ready to take on the workday in style!