Professional in Floral: How to Wear Floral Prints to Work

Today’s post in this wear-to-work series is all about how to wear floral prints to work. Generally speaking, prints in fashion are very subjective and personal, they’re sort of like cilantro, either you love it or your hate it, rarely is there an in-between.   And there really is no right or wrong answer as to whether a print is attractive or not because prints are like wearable artwork.  I chose to specifically touch on floral prints today because, while they are such perfect warm weather prints, for the office, there are some risks involved in wearing them to the office.

Few people look at floral prints and think “hard-nosed professional”.  These types of prints are usually more passive, soft and flirty.  Unlike a sharp geometric, for example, that have harder edges, severe lines and clear boundaries, the washy nature of floral prints can send off a less serious message.  In order to wear floral prints at work check out the outfits below along with my suggestions.

How to wear floral prints to work

Tip #1- Add Structure

This fluid and drapey Adrianna Papell floral print dress, that would be great for a dressy weekend look, is a bit too soft for the office, on its own.  Yet by adding some more structured and tailored work appropriate pieces it becomes more office friendly.  When working in a more corporate environment, consider this tip to balance the softness of the swishy floral print piece.

In this outfit, a white Reiss blazer, pair of navy Tahari slingback shoes from and navy belt add the structure, while the turquoise Kate Spade handbag and necklace from Stella & Dot finish the look.

Tip #2- Floral prints in structured pieces

Another way to wear floral prints to work is to wear prints in more professional silhouettes, like this floral print pencil skirt from Boden.  With this approach you can wear softer pieces, like this cobalt J. Crew cardigan and coral cap sleeve top, while still looking professional.

The outfit is finished with a pair of Blu Bijoux floral earrings, a coral handbag from Franco Sarto and a pair of professional pumps in nude from Cole Haan.

Tip #3- Floral prints in toned down, professional shades

In addition to choosing prints in structured silhouettes, another solution is to choose floral prints in colors that are more toned down and professional, like in this dress from Modcloth, which is not only a professional shift dress but the floral print isn’t bright or too casual in appearance.  Added to look, I styled this dress with a blue Zara blazer and understated labradorite earrings.

The outfit is finished with a soft blue handbag from Zara and yellow Miz Mooz peep toe heels.

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