From intense meetings in the boardroom to happy hour at the taproom, men have been a fashion inspiration for decades – most likely without even knowing it. Not only are women giving them some serious competition in corporate America, but women entrepreneurs are also on the rise. These local business owners show us how to borrow from the boys without hiding their feminine side.
Formal Style
Ady Abreu, Owner Of Ady Cakes
Tailoring and proportions are key in pulling off a menswear look, and this Annie Hall-inspired suiting is perfect for bringing fast fashion to fruition. Rather than a traditional dress pant and stiff button down, lean toward ladylike with a skinny pant and sheer blouse. The pastel color and contrast placket in this top are the perfect combo of flirty and fun. A lace back blazer and sky high heels add to this look’s girly qualities, and bold makeup packs a feminine punch. The bow tie and cummerbund are the real show stoppers, proving once and for all that no man could ever look this good! Heart N Soul skinny pant, $32 | Grass Collection sheer blouse, $28 | A. Byer lace back blazer, $39.99 | Printed scarf (used as cummerbund), $19.99| Billy London bow tie, $38 | Nine West open toe pump, $89.99, all from Boscov’s, 1665 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.779.2000. boscovs.com
Office Style
Heather Clark, Owner Of Go Fish! Seafood & Sushi Bar
Corporate casual can get old quickly, but take note when you look over your cubicle or around the conference room. Perhaps the most interesting thing in the wardrobe of any of your male colleagues is around his neck. The tie can set the tone of the whole ensemble, and a woman can make this powerful accessory look just as fierce. We paired a solid tie and suspenders with another staple in business fashion – the pinstripe dress shirt. A bold pencil skirt takes it from androgynous to super sexy – I mean, “office-appropriate” sexy. Pinstripe dress shirt, $64 | Belted pencil skirt, $72 | Solid necktie, $40, all from Van Heusen Outlet, VF Outlet Center 3rd Floor Blue Building, 801 Hill Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.378.5550 | Suspenders by Geoffrey Beene, $19.99, Boscov’s, 1665 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.779.2000. boscovs.com
Boyfriend Style
Juli Cleaver, Owner Of Bella Jules Fashion Boutique, LLC
It is no secret that men have mastered the “casual” look. But when sweats and sneakers just won’t cut it, digging into your dude’s closet could still work to your advantage. Boyfriend jeans have become a commodity in denim; they are easy to wear and can be dressed up or down. When paired with a blazer and button down, the look is clean and classy. Give your inner tomboy some attention with a structured handbag and oxford or loafer shoes. A scarf used as an ascot or neckerchief will give the overall look some flare and draw attention to your most feminine feature – your beautiful face. Costa Blanca Double-Breasted Blazer, $79 | Three Dots ¾ sleeve button down shirt, $120 | It Jeans curvy stiletto jeans in Mac Coy wash, $89 | Echo silk printed scarf, $48 | Wish belt, $25, Bella Jules, 700 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.208.0600, bellajulesboutique.com. Tan oxfords, $99 | Bass Outlet, VF Outlet Center, 3rd Floor Blue Building, 801 Hill Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.376.8860
BY AMANDA ACUNA | PHOTOS BY TANIA COLAMARINO, AMA PHOTOGRAPHY
