We got a female leader to decode what power dressing looks like in 2019
32, Director of Asset Management, Co-founder of The Great Room
Blazing Fast
As a busy mum, Su Anne relies on a jacket to up her style game each morning. “Throwing on a jacket allows me to get out the door fast”, she explains. “People appreciate if you dress up a little, and you can never be too overdressed.”
Earrings, $299, from Atelier Swarovski. Blazer, $139, from Mango. Knit, $84.95, from H&M. Pants, $89.90, from Topshop. Watch from Seiko.
Think of “dressing for success” and you automatically think of boxy, unflattering pantsuits in dark grey tweed. Sure, it’s work-friendly and you won’t catch flak from your superiors, but how uninspiring is it to come to work each day in the same dull suiting. Yet, when you try to go shopping for newer clothes, you’re constantly second guessing your purchasing decisions because you’re not sure if something might not sit right with HR. To help you solve this conundrum, we linked up with Su Anne Mi to talk shop. Peek into how she gets dressed for the office, and learn how you can dress confidently for the workplace too.
Can you describe your personal style for us?
“I’d describe my style as clean and comfortable. I like the simplicity of whites and blacks, with the occasional pop of colour. As someone who is always on the go – from long work days, travelling for work, and adventuring out with my kids – my wardrobe needs to adapt to all of these occasions with the snap of a finger. I also love wearing pieces I have an emotional connection to – artisanal pieces designed by a friend, an old hat that reminds me of a great fishing trip in Alaska – and I try to support local creators.”
As a leader yourself, what are some things that you take note of when it comes to your staff’s corporate dress sense?
“I would describe our team members as professional without being too serious. We take pride in the design and details of our space, and it goes without saying that the space has to be clean and organised – this is the first step to showing that we care for our members. Similarly, this translates into how my staff dresses. I believe in dressing well and bringing your best self to the table every morning. This shows that you respect yourself and the people you interact with.”
Any exciting TGR-related projects coming up that you can share with us?
“The Great Room has just launched our sixth and newest location at Raffles Hotel, one of Singapore’s most recognised landmarks and an iconic heritage building. Naturally, the members that work here with us are just as interesting and iconic. We’re in Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong, and will continue to grow in these markets and across APAC. There’s definitely more to come!”
Step Right Up
Su Anne advises to wear heels, as she believes that “wearing a heel gives you a bit of a boost physically and mentally”.
Atta Girl!
Su Anne believes that just because you want an equal seat at the table, doesn’t mean you should sacrifice your femininity. “Celebrate your femininity, and use this to demonstrate your confidence.”
IN GREAT COMPANY
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