FROM DAY TO NIGHT

With the sun setting late, you may find yourself wanting to take advantage of the long summer days and go straight from work to drinks or dinner. With a few simple tweaks, you can easily take work attire from day to night.

Firstly, ditch the blazer. Nothing screams office more than the trusty blazer. Choose a brightly coloured cardi or a bejewelled gilet if you need something over your shoulders.

If your work-wear style is toned down, a simple change of top from conservative to something brightly coloured, patterned or embellished with beads or lace might be all you need to make your outfit ideal for cocktails on the terrace of your favourite restaurant.

You may be most comfortable in flats during the working day but replacing them with a pair of heels for the evening instantly transforms an outfit. If you can’t manage heels after a hectic day, a pair of shiny sandals are a good option, too. This season any metallic is in – silver, gold, copper and rose gold all function as neutrals and pair well with any colour. For a real statement, wear a pair encrusted with brightly coloured gems.

A simple way to take an outfit from smart to stunning is with jewellery. Swap your modest studs for a pair of statement earrings – this season’s hottest are dangly and tasselled and surprisingly easy to wear. A longer length necklace with a few colourful gems or tassels at the end is a great way to jazz up a simple shift dress or round-necked blouse. The bonus is that they are right on trend. Chunky beads are also all the rage and are all you need to take an outfit from bland to bling.

If you’re being spontaneous and haven’t brought bejewelled items or brightly coloured clothing to change into after work, spend ten minutes in front of the bathroom mirror. Change your hairstyle from a conservative bun to a jaunty high ponytail or leave it loose for a less formal feel. A slick of brighter lipstick and a layer of mascara are often all it takes to look ready for drinks rather than your desk.