Question about business casual dress when wearing a leg brace
March 22nd, 2010After a stupid injury slipping on some ice, I am in a knee brace for the> next six weeks. Aside from the pain, xrays, physical therapy and other pressing concerns, I am most freaked out about what the heck I am supposed to wear to work the next 6 weeks. My office/work is a total mixed bag. I go in full suits, totally corporate attire on some days (with business meetings, etc.) and on other days it is business casual, and some days I wear jeans. I actually feel okay with the two outer extremes - I think I can pull together a pencil skirt and be passable…jeans is a no brainer. The business casual is what I am worried about, and that is most of the days. I don’t want to go buy a bunch of clothes that I wouldn’t wear otherwise. And I have found that the brace over trousers does NOT LOOK CUTE. Should note that I am tall and size 14. Of course being mid-season makes it all the more difficult. Not quite in bare leg weather, tights can look too heavy. Basically I am stuck. Any advice? Thanks. - Lori Fox
March 22nd, 2010 at 11:46 am
Dear Lori,
First, I am so sorry about your injury. I hate those stupid accidents. I have had two — a broken wrist and a smashed elbow. I feel your pain.
You sound to me like a person who understands the importance of professional image in the workplace. Here’s what I would suggest, given that your colleagues know about your injury and will cut you some slack (pun intended). If you don’t already own, purchase a pair of black flared leg slacks in a non-wrinkle fabric that drapes nicely over your leg brace. The Zelda line always includes a slack of this description. Go to Saks for the best selection. Over the slacks wear several of the new colorful sweater sets or blazer length sweaters over a blouse. Color is the big trend this year so get a jump on it during this transition season. Another option is to wear a white blouse, also a hot new trend, and belt it over the slacks.
Hope this helps. BTW, Style Matters is giving a seminar this Weds., 6 p.m., at the Denver Athletic Club on fashion trends and fads. Would love to meet you. www.denverathleticclub.org to register.