Fashion: Double-duty basics that work and play hard

It's all about how you dress an outfit up or down depending on the occasion. Photo / Thinkstock

I am a mum and work part-time. Have you got some ideas on outfits and particularly shoes that work in the playground and at work?

In most cases you'll be able to wear the same clothes to work and in the playground, but you may need one or two pieces that are reserved specifically for each. And it really depends on the type of work you do - I've considered the corporate environment.

Really it's all about how you dress an outfit up or down depending on the occasion, and the best way to do this is using accessories. For example, the right dress could be worn at the park, at work and carry you through into the evening, simply with the use of different accessories.

Tops: Look for plain, simple, practical styling that can carry you through work and having fun with your children. For example, a top with lots of embellishments might not be that practical for running around in and may look over-dressed. Use accessories like earrings, necklaces and bangles or bracelets to dress the top up (not worn all together).

Dresses: The same goes - if you opt for plain, simple, practical styling, you could easily wear the same dress to work and the playground. Like the tops, use accessories to dress up your look. Comfy fabrics like stretch knits are ideal, as long as they're not too clingy.

Blazers: A blazer is a great piece that can help you achieve that smart work look but can also look equally fabulous with jeans - okay, not for the playground, but certainly for a smarter casual look. Or consider a cardi - there are some fabulous styles and colours.

Dress trousers and/or a skirt: These will help to complete your work set.

Jeans: Buying a tidy (no tears, dyed patches etc), dark pair of jeans can double as your "casual Friday" look (if you have that at your workplace and if you work on a Friday), especially great teamed up with your blazer.

And then, as we all know, jeans are fabulous for kicking around in casually. Look for jeans with a stretch - they're more comfortable and forgiving.

Shoes: A great pair of leather ankle boots with a slight heel can be worn with your work trousers, skirts and dresses but are also great for a casual look with jeans. If you get them a little dirty at the playground, give them a clean, polish and/or brush and they'll be as good as new. Flats are a great shoe style that can be worn in both situations.

If budget allows, it would be great to have a plain-style court shoe with heel that you can wear to work with your trousers, skirts and dresses, and in the evening.

Lisa Lyford is the founder of Gorgeous Me, free DIY personal styling and makeover advice. www.gorgeousme.co.nz

Send your questions for Lisa to regionalfeatures@apn.co.nz.