Dressing for work is a style minefield. Four über-chic women show us how they mix business with fashion pleasure

“In the fashion industry, there’s no strict dress code so it’s important my style is as much about me as the company. But an element of practicality is also involved - my working week can consist of anything from running between meetings to setting up a fashion show, so I tend to opt for simple jersey basics, easy-to-wear dresses and comfortable flats - keeping a stash of heels under my desk should any last-minute invitations suddenly crop up! I also love J Brand and MiH (the Paris is a favourite) for smart day-to-evening denim. At our East London office, the showroom is brimming with the latest designs from our clients, so there’s no better place to turn to for inspiration. If I don’t feel an affinity to a designer’s aesthetic, then it’s hard to represent and champion their collection. I’ve learnt that staying true to your own style is key.”

1. Black Washed Frill Jacket, Mulberry £766; 2. Dantes Silk Cotton Contrast Blouse, Paul & Joe Sister £192; 3. Poum Catprint Silk Easy Pants, Paul & Joe £215; 4. Flynn High Sandal, DVF £258; 5. Chain Link Gold Necklace, M Missoni £125

“No day is ever the same at Hammond Partners, where I can literally go from meeting to meeting with a wide variety of clients without stopping. I’m a member of the Princes Trust Women’s Leadership Group and also work as a business mentor at board/senior management level, so dressing for the occasion is important. I used to dress a lot more corporately in little matching suits - but that’s not what I feel comfortable in. I’m a lot more interested in fashion now and refuse to conform to a stereotype. That said, I do think first impressions count, and there are still certain expectations in the City, so appearance can be critical. I’d say my style is glamorous and smart but edgy, which is a good balance. I try to avoid style dramas by planning what I wear meticulously the night before - preparation is key!”

1. Gracie Pleated Shoulder Bag, Anya Hindmarch £595; 2. Stellina Micro Panthere Dress, Joseph £283; 3. Zinco Snail Dress, Sportmax £259; 4. Large Gold Chronograph, Michael Kors Watches £219; 5. Salinas Suede Cage Sandals, Kors by Michael Kors £215

“My job has huge variety, from spending time with our cabin crew and talking about their travel experiences, to speaking at conferences about how Virgin Atlantic connects with our passengers online. I like to strike the right balance between appearing professional and expressing my own personal style. I tend to have a classic look with an individual twist, so a skirt might have a cool design detail, a blazer might have texture, but they always look smart. I believe that when you feel good, it’s reflected in how you present yourself and the confidence you project to others.”

1. Navy Watch Short Jacket, Joseph £360; 2. Blue Basket Weave Skirt, McQ Alexander McQueen £165; 3. Beige Belted V Neck Shift Dress, Moschino Cheap & Chic £272; 4. Maeve Tote, Anya Hindmarch £395; 5. Grey Fiorenza Patent Mid Heel Court, Sam Edelman £112

“As head of production for Mark Lawson Bell Studio I work on a number of projects at any one time including runway shows, fashion shoots and product launches for clients such as Absolut vodka, Jaeger London and Sketch. My day is so varied that my look often has to take me from a breakfast meeting through to an event in the evening. It needs to be practical for running around town and suitable for the venues we work in - one of our recent projects meant spending a lot of time in derelict warehouses. There are key staples in my wardrobe - a pair of dark fitted jeans, vest top and a smart jacket. I have a wardrobe full of J Brand Jeans, Joseph jackets and Acne vest tops and, at evening events, a tux and a faithful fitted black dress are my style repertoire.”

1. Dust Beadu Tank, Acne £60; 2. Jumbo Cigarette Leg Trousers, Sportmax £199; 3. Quantum Silk Top, Helmut Lang £220; 4. Gunmetal Cuff With Crystal Trim, Kenneth Jay Lane £80; 5. Maribelle Shoulder Sac, DVF £621;