Taking control of your corporate look without spending a fortune

With fashion changing and new designs emerging, it is difficult to ensure that your corporate wardrobe is constantly being refreshed. Buying new items every month might be unrealistic but that doesn’t mean that you have hit a wardrobe dilemma. In fact, it gives you the opportunity to get creative, mix and match and of course, have some fun.

Whilst dressing for the workplace can restrict you, it shouldn’t discourage or affect your style and personal taste. It is important to establish what timeless items you do own, what you cannot live without and what you can. It’s about working with what you have!

Turn up the music and get going

The best way of doing this is by separating your corporate and social wardrobes. Clear a drawer or two and half of your hanging space, just for your corporate wear. Not only will this allow you to clearly define your corporate style, it will assist you in getting ready for work and making quick outfit decisions in the morning. Whilst doing this, strategise carefully about the items that are your favourite. These items should be dynamic and used easily with other items.

Tips on taking control of your corporate wardrobe

Choose your anchor items. These are garments that are the key “ingredients” within your corporate wardrobe.  They are quality items that have the ability to interchange.

Black is always an easy corporate colour and is acceptable in any situation. Whilst selecting your anchor items, make sure that you have a black skirt that falls just below the knee or sits on the knee line. It is easy to choose a blouse to match a black corporate skirt so having this item is imperative.

The business jacket should also be on your list of “must have’s”. This anchor item should fit you well and have sleeves that drop just past your lower wrist bone.

Having various colours in your corporate wardrobe is important. These should be made up of other jackets, skirts and formal trousers. Having two or more colours is ideal. Suitable and flattering corporate colours include:

  • Tan
  • Brown
  • Navy Bleu
  • Grey
  • White

Varying shades of these colours offers flattery and style.

Blouses allow you to make an outfit unique. Patterned shirts add a bit of elegance to a corporate look. Wearing a blue blouse that is a lighter shade of your blue jacket is ideal, for example.

These anchor items should be the foundation of your corporate wardrobe. Make sure that they are of a high quality and that the fit is perfect for your body. If you ensure that you have the fundamental items in your corporate closet, you shouldn’t need to worry about refreshing your clothing every few months. Adding an item from time to time allows you extra freedom but having your anchor garments in place will keep your corporate style looking dynamic and stylish.

Refreshing Your Corporate Uniform Look

Face your business proudly
A new year means new beginnings and what better way to freshen up your brand and staff’s motivation than by introducing a new look into your business? Your corporate uniform says a lot about your brand’s personality. Consistency in employee appearance is important as it creates an impression on customers and the public at large. However ensuring that your business image continues to remain an appealing one is as important.

Recall and recognition is created through a business’s corporate identity which although is a constant, should certainly be tweaked and refreshed every now and then.

Some of the biggest advantages of utilising a corporate uniform are in fact for the overall benefit of the business, employees and staff.

    • When employees wear distinctive colours that are associated with the brand, it prints an impression on the consumer’s mind
    • Corporate uniforms package employees and part of a brand and help to distinguish between competitors
    • Customers can distinguish employees in uniform (avoids embarrassment of asking another customer for assistance)
    • Inspires confidence in the consumer as it suggests that employees are professional and that they are knowledgeable in what they do
    • Puts the force of the corporate reputation behind the individual

Refreshing corporate clothing or corporate uniforms once in a while is always a good idea. It specifically projects the idea of forward thinking onto consumers. Moving with the times is a much healthier approach to have than to simply expect a look to work for 10 years at a time. With slight tweaks here and there, a corporate uniform look can quite easily change from dull to exciting, and more modernised.

Get some inspiration. Take a look at our Style Guide.

KARMA Clothing offers its years of qualified expertise, in creating and tweaking corporate uniforms. With professional designers behind the “seams” KARMA assists businesses in selecting the right shape and cut. It is important to ensure that the corporate uniform style that your business chooses is one that is suitable for all shapes and sizes.

Contact KARMA Clothing to set up a consultation or enquire about our corporate uniform design services.  

KARMA Corporate Fashion Show 2012/2013 takes to the runway

Our 2012/2013 Corporate Fashion Show was certainly a fabulous success. The exclusive, by invite only event, was attended by 60 corporate guests from within the Cellular, Government, Financial and Hotel Industries. Our latest range of ladies and gents corporate clothing and uniforms were conceptualised and designed by our KARMA ‘Vision ‘ Team which consists of Directors Karin & Marlies along with Head designer , Helen .

Inspired by urbanised and strong shapes, we have ensured that each and every garment and individual piece represents a stylish corporate look. The range is representative of what we believe all corporate employees should own as part of a sophisticated wardrobe or corporate uniform identity.

The fabrics have been carefully selected to ensure not only the ultimate level of comfort but a contemporary and fashion forward approach to new generation textiles that are available in the market. We have focused on using Polyviscose with subtle sheen for suiting , as well as Cotton Rich blends for shirts and soft Voiles for blouses.

Congratulations to Nelly from Shirl Promotions for winning the draw in our corporate wardrobe competition. We are certain that you will make a lasting impression with the R8000.00 wardrobe you have won .

We would like to thank all our clients and guests who attended our annual show. We are further inspired by each of you and appreciate your continued support. Remember , you saw it first at KARMA !

Take a sneak peek at our 2012/2013 corporate range , we would love to receive your feedback.

Confident and Sophisticated in the Workplace

We live in a time where ladies are no longer expected to wear suits in unfeminine colours, shapes and styles. In fact sophistication, style and comfort should be the key components to any lady’s corporate wardrobe.

Many women feel that they cannot look appealing and be taken seriously at the same time, within the working environment. When worn correctly, women’s corporate clothing can be extremely flattering however still offer a professional and sophisticated business look. Sharper and more tailored clothing has the potential to indicate confidence however it is also important that the corporate clothing is tasteful and elegant. There are a few ways to achieve an accessible and sophisticated corporate clothing image.

Tailored Clothing

Tailored corporate clothing accentuates curves and body shapes, whilst providing ladies with more fitting corporate clothing look. Tailored corporate clothing is a modern attitude – it is inclusive of style, charisma and shows that you have a point of view. Embrace the more fitted and shapely styles, your feminine curves will be applauding this.

Brighten Up

Bright colours should always be kept to a maximum of 3 articles at a time. It is important not to wear too many colours at once as it not only takes attention away from the strengths of the corporate outfit, it also starts to clash or become overbearing. Colours always work best when wearing a dark pair of pants or suit.

Hair and Accessories

Delicate & feminine jewellery can add a bit of character to a corporate image. Since a sexy and sophisticated corporate look can be a bit severe, both gold and silver finer jewellery will soften the overall look.

Although most ladies prefer to wear their hair down at work, pulling it back into a clip will add some extra prettiness to your sophisticated corporate image. Sleek pony tails are also an ideal option in the workplace.

It is important to emanate control whilst dressing for success in the workplace. Every aspect of your corporate image will portray something. Whilst looking confident and sophisticated you are able to demand respect in the office environment. Remember comfort is equal to confidence.

For more details, please contact us directly:

Tel: 011 262 2995 | Fax: 011 262 2559 |
Email: karin@karmaclothing.co.za

Corporate Clothing Tips for Ladies and Men

Appearance plays a huge part of every first impression in the corporate world. Being the first article that is seen, clothing reflects personal style, your level of professionalism as well as assumptions of personality. Remembering to dress professionally rather than overly trendy can be difficult for both men and women.

Men’s corporate clothing as well as women’s corporate clothing comes in a variety of colours, styles, patterns and fabrics. There is certainly nothing wrong with trying to get creative, mixing and matching and being adventurous with the corporate clothing that you wear to the office. However, remembering your corporate ID is of great importance and ensuring that you don’t overdo it, is critical.

Men’s Corporate Clothing

The number one thing for all men to remember when it comes to dressing for the office, boardroom or for clients, is that fit is King. Too often men tend to wear clothes that are too large. The ideal size is one that hugs the shape of your body, without being tight.

Keeping up a simple yet sophisticated corporate look is important. No more than 3 pieces of accessories should be worn at once, as it may steer away from looking professional. Likewise, combining more than 3 colours is often risky and certainly extremely difficult to wear confidently.

Top Tips for Men’s Corporate Clothing

  • Match your belt to your shoes
  • Co-ordinate ties and shirts
  • Socks should be a similar shade to pants
  • Invest in a watch that suits your lifestyle and taste
  • If you wear glasses, invest in a couple different frames

Women’s Corporate Clothing

Women’s business attire is comprised of a much larger variety than what is available for men. This usually makes dressing for business, a lot more challenging. Apart from fabrics, styles and colours, women have a selection of accessories and make- up which add a huge amount of weight to the overall corporate look.

Colour is possibly the most important aspect for women to remember with regards to corporate clothing. Not only does it affect the overall professional image, it always influences the level of femininity that the individual wishes to portray.

The Story Colours Tell…

There are of course various versions with regard to what sort of impression various colours give off or tell about an individual. However when choosing a corporate clothing colour, the most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable and confident in the colour, it will not compliment you in any way.

Top Tips for Women’s Corporate Clothing

  • Avoid lengthy slits in skirts
  • Dress up denim with a formal jacket
  • Panty- hose should match the tone of your skin
  • Wear tailored clothing
  • Avoid pattern extremes

Both men’s corporate clothing styles and women’s corporate clothing styles will differ according to the individual. As long as the level of comfort and professionalism are appropriate and the basics are ticked, your corporate clothing wardrobe should compliment your requirements and taste.

From corporate clothing day wear to evening wear

As a businesswoman you not only have your career to juggle but possibly a family and social life too. Who has time to spend in traffic? If you have an evening office function or evening out with friends planned, doesn’t it make more sense to plan ahead and make sure that yourcorporate clothing can successfully be tweaked into a glamorous evening look?

With spring around the corner your corporate clothing will too blossom into bursts of colour, stylish shapes and flattering cuts. However, when dressing for the office there is no need to restrict yourself. Looking professional is key but adding personal style and subtle undertones is a sure way of feeling confident and comfortable. Converting your corporate clothing office look into a sleek evening look is as simple as it sounds. We at KARMA Clothing believe in not only comfort but in a woman that exudes confident femininity : day or night.

Converting your corporate clothing look into a sophisticated evening look need not require you going home after work. In fact it doesn’t even at times require a change of clothing.

From Boardroom to Glamour in 5 Minutes

The best way to transform your day look into a dazzling evening or cocktail look is to use what lies beneath. Your corporate clothing can easy double up and by wearing a sparkly or jewel- tone top with a pair of business pants or a business skirt you can very easily tone it down with a complimentary business jacket during the day. Removing the jacket and replacing it with a shawl if the weather requires it, will make for a sophisticated evening image.

The classic “little black dress” is also the ideal double up outfit as it can be worn with a blazer or buttoned cardigan during the day. When the blazer or cardigan is buttoned up it will look as though you are wearing a business skirt.

Dressing the Garment

Switching accessories is the easiest way to turn your corporate look into something a little more fitting for an evening event. Replacing stud or hoop earrings with a pair of chandelier earrings will add some character and drama to an outfit. There are various other swops that can be done in just under 5 minutes:

  • Change your pumps or low heels for stilettos, metallic sandals or open toes
  • Exchange jewellery for more ornate pieces
  • Swap your big day bag for an elegant clutch
  • Touch up your make- up: another layer of mascara, darker lipstick or lip gloss, smoky eyes, blush
  • Add decorative hairclips or a bit of mousse for volume

Regardless of the time of year, a bit of pre- planning will ensure that your corporate clothing is easily transformed into a comfortable yet stylish after- hours look.

Contact KARMA Clothing for corporate clothing orders, styles and advice.

Call:  011 262 2995

Email: Karin@karmaclothing.co.za

Modernise your corporate clothing look in 2012

In today’s competitive corporate market, companies need to do all they can to ensure that they are seen. Traditional advertising is expensive and to maintain it can certainly take a chunk out of a yearly budget. However there are ways to ensure that no matter what, your employees represent your business in a positive way, and whilst doing so, become part of your marketing plan.

Corporate uniforms provide a number of benefits to a business and ensuring that they are consistent across the business, they can be an extremely helpful marketing tool. Ensuring that corporate uniforms are modernised on a regular basis is also a great way to keep a business look fresh and current. No matter what services and products your business offers, it is critical to maintain a look that differentiates you from your competitors.

With 2012 a few months away, perhaps it’s time to modernise your company’s corporate clothing look. Choosing a new look or simply expanding on your businesses corporate clothing selection is a great way to get brand exposure (having a logo on the uniform creates recall and recognition). There are however various other benefits to updating your corporate uniforms every few years.

  • Provides a professional look
  • Motivates staff
  • Promotes commitment
  • Employees feel good that the company is spending money on them
  • People become more interested in your brand

Corporate clothing plays a large role in staying ahead of competitors. These days, companies cannot afford not to make an effort. It is so easy to be left behind and in return, forgotten by consumers. Something as simple as modernised corporate clothing can make a major difference and goes a long way in keeping a business’s brand image looking fresh.

If you are interested in a new corporate clothing look for 2012 or you wish to tweak your current corporate clothing look, contact KARMA Clothing and get advice from industry image consultants.

Menswear, both corporate and casual

When it’s time to suit up for work, often men are lured in by designer labels and fashion trends that do not necessarily compliment them. In the corporate world, although appearance is important, men’s wear needs to be as comfortable as it is fitting for the circumstances.

KARMA Clothing’s range of corporate menswear incorporates the all important professional image with comfort. Imported  Poly Viscose is the fabric of choice used by KARMA Clothing  when producing all tailored jackets, trousers and waistcoats.

The benefits of Poly Viscose for menswear

Poly Viscose is a durable and machine washable material that is ideal for the tailoring of uniforms, jackets, trousers, blazers and suits. The softness and suppleness of this material makes menswear extremely comfortable.

KARMA Clothing’s corporate menswear range

With comfort and style being top- of- mind, KARMA Clothing provides business men with an option of black, navy, coal or stone for all waistcoats, trousers and tailored jackets. These corporate colours offer a sophisticated look and are in line with various Corporate identities.

The corporate menswear range extends into other aspects of the professional image such as Gents Shirts which are available in various collared and cuff styles. Read more here about the shirt colour range.

Men’s Corporate Trousers will add some style to any man’s wardrobe, with the selection of  Chino Corporate Trousers and a more contemporary, Flat Front Elegant Trouser.

The All Weather Coat is the perfect addition to any man’s corporate wardrobe and is ideal for both wet and cold weather as it is both waterproof and warm.

Men’s casual wear

Being comfortable and stylish away from the office gives men the chance to dress down and relax. KARMA Clothing’s range of casual menswear incorporates style and much needed comfort.

Casual men’s wear includes Cargo Pants, Cargo shorts, Golf Shirts (with structured collars,) contemporary Anoraks and Pit- Shirts. A variety of colours are available within this menswear range and all clothing is manufactured as per client selection.

Contact KARMA Clothing for more information or to order your selection of menswear.

Call 011 262 2995 | Email karin@karmaclothing.co.za

Corporate clothing for your business

Professional corporate clothing or business wear can change the way your customers and potential clients view your business. Your organisation’s identity is as important as the product you sell or the service you offer. Your staff form a large part of your businesses façade – if they look professional and dignified at all times, your company can stand to benefit a lot.

KARMA Corporate Clothing specialises in corporate clothing and business wear that is not just stylish but also functional, pragmatic, comfortable, and appropriate for your industry.

Services

KARMA Corporate Clothing (PTY) has a range of dissimilar and specialised services to cater for each client’s unique corporate wear needs.

Our corporate clothing image recommendation service is offered to businesses wishing to introduce or update their corporate clothingandstaff uniforms - this is provided as part of our standard service. Our specialist team will assess a number of issues pertaining to your corporation including the site of your business and staff demographics.

KARMA Corporate Clothing will also consider the various styles, fabrics and colours available in order to provide the most suitable corporate clothing collection for your corporation. Furthermore, much consideration is placed on how your corporation’s corporate clothing ties in with the industry. Does it fit in and how it can be used to further confirm your company’s image within that particular industry.

In-House design

A team of skilled in-house designers keep a close eye to the ever-changing world of fashion and continuously incorporates these new designs into our standard corporate clothing collection. Our catalogues are regularly updated with new and refreshed business wear styles and office attire. Working closely with our designers helps us keep our range relevant and fresh.

Designs specifically developed for Companies

Not every client’s style will necessarily form part of our standard catalogue. Banks, hotels, casinos airlines and/or other corporations may require specific staff uniforms. KARMA Corporate Clothing offers a special in-house designing service to solve this problem. Clients may have their corporate clothing tailor-made to suit their specific requirements and specifications.

For more details, please contact us directly:

Tel: 011 262 2995 | Fax: 011 262 2559 |
Email: karin@karmaclothing.co.za

Corporate clothing to compliment corporate identity

A company’s corporate identity is what represents an organisation’s core values. Successful brands are easily identifiable through their corporate identity. Although these companies may be large, small to medium sized businesses need to build a corporate identity standard.

Whether a business is starting out or redeveloping its look, a strong corporate identity will not only differentiate a brand from its competitors but it will create a strong recall and recognition in the consumer’s minds. There is more to a corporate identity than just a logo. It is a system that is able to work together to deliver a consistent message to the consumer. Through the use of colour, font, images, music and more, a strong corporate identity will carry a brand far.

There is however one other aspect that many companies do not consider. One that should be part of a company’s corporate identity but more importantly strategically part of their marketing. Corporate clothing is a highly effective marketing tool that not only gives a business exposure on a daily basis, but portrays a company’s standards to all clients.

It is important that all corporate clothing reflects a company’s corporate identity.  Choosing colours, patterns and clothing designs to represent a company is quite a process, one that should be carefully considered as there are various aspects involved.

  • All staff are shaped differently
  • Comfort is important
  • Style/ elegance is important (corporate clothing style etc should reflect the type of business)
  • Variations for different seasons

Corporate clothing need not only look good, it needs to be comfortable so that staff are able to represent a business and not worry about feeling uncomfortable. With comfort and style being top-of-mind, KARMA Clothing offers a full range of men’s and women’s corporate clothing and uniforms.

A team of talented in-house designers ensure that every piece of corporate clothing is able to be dressed up and dressed down to best suit various times of the day. However should a company be looking for a corporate clothing look to complement a new or current corporate identity, KARMA Clothing will ensure that there is consistency spilling over from the corporate identity to corporate clothing. Enquire now.

Image is everything in the business world. The perception that the public will have of a business is partly due to the way in which staff come across. Corporate clothing allows a business to have control over how employees look and the image they portray when with clients.

Contact KARMA Clothing for all corporate clothing requirements.
Call 011 262 2995 or Email karin@karmaclothing.co.za