Power flats and leather: the new workwear rules

The news that temp Nicola Thorp was sent home from her first day as a receptionist at PwC for refusing to wear high heels was met with audible gasps from members of the fashion industry - and womankind - across the capital.

Not least because flat shoes have become as commonplace in offices from Harrow to Hackney as your morning cup of Joe (or seven), but because, errrr, it’s 2016.

The capital’s tastemakers have come on leaps and bounds, even if certain City-based companies haven’t.

Thanks to the wealth of fashion houses championing clothes created by women for women - see Phoebe Philo, Stella McCartney and Victoria Beckham - the options for looking stylish AND office appropriate are more abundant that ever.

So here’s a re-cap of the modern workplace rules. PwC, we hope you’re reading.

1. Flats not heels

The savviest business types know there’s no need to hobble around in a pair of six-inchers 9 to 5. A sharp, simple flat is far more appealing for women who have to get sh*t done.

2. Trainers, trainers, trainers

And trainers are still firmly on the agenda. Balance out the casual vibes of a pair of Converse with a tailored crop trouser, or invest in a pair of chic leather boardroom trainers. Common Projects and Fendi both have class acts.

3. Office athleisure

Thank you, Kirsty Wark, for repping a pair of track pants by Brit label Me + Em on Newsnight. Team with a smart jacket and you’re on to a workplace winner.

4. Denim’s OK, honestly

Unless you missed the memo sent out shortly after the Dark Ages, denim is a definite office “yes”. The current style is cropped and slightly flared. Opt for black if your office is on the conservative side, indigo if it isn’t.