By Meher Castelino
The head seat at the board table is no longer reserved for the male of the species. There are many contenders for it from the fairer sex too. In fact, the female high-powered executive is not a rare sight as she jets around the world, perfectly dressed and ready to take the right decisions

Woman’s executive wear is a segment of fashion that many designers and stores cater exclusively to. Designer Meher Sanjana was one of the first to create high fashion garments for the working woman nearly a decade and a half ago. But dressing up for work and to the kitty party are two different images of the 90s woman. There are certain dos and don’ts that the Indian female executive can follow to give the image of a woman who means business.
The Indian female executive is fortunate enough to have three options unlike her male counterpart who is stuck with the suit. Women can choose from western wear, the sari or the salwar kurta.
Designer Shaina NC who caters to the western needs of the lady executive adds. “There was a time when I felt the suit for the working woman was the best outfit but our climate is a bit unkind if it is not of a really light weight fabric. Instead, I feel a formal shirt in georgette or rayon with a scarf is far more practical and effective. This could be teamed with trousers or a skirt depending on the lady’s figure. If one wants to wear ethnic garments then the silhouette should be simple and slim. No kalis or gathers please. Just a tunic with straight trousers is perfect teamed with a scarf instead of a dupatta. Colours can be neutrals like navy blue, cream, beige, pewter or even lilac,” advises Shaina.
But many lady executives may not feel too comfortable in the above two options. In that case the sari is the best in silk or blends with a simple traditional border. Of course the blouse that goes with it is very important and can project the wrong image if it has a plunging neckline or a backless style. The ideal blouse design could be with cap or short sleeves, simple round, ‘V’, square or mandarin neck and a comfortable length.
Accessories should not be forgotten because they complete the picture. “Pearls are the safest - but just a simple string or Italian gold jewellery. With the Indian outfits simple silver jewellery is ideal,” continues Shaina.
Designers feel that the lady executive of the new millennium does not have to opt for power dressing as she did in the 80s. “No masculine tailored suits. The look today is feminine decisive but with the no nonsense attitude,” feels Shaina.
Jay Ramrakhiani who creates garments for several high powered lady executives working with the MNCs feels the suit or the sari is the perfect option. “With a lot of travelling on their program the lady executive should opt for crease proof wash and wear garments that require the minimum of care. I am always partial to linen suits because they look very classy and are perfect for our weather. The slightly creased look is what many women find very attractive,” informs Jay.
For the busy lady executive there are a few must ‘have’ which Jay wants to list out.
“A black skirt and trousers are an important part of the wardrobe along with a simple jacket which can be teamed with different blouses with or without collars. The idea is to get as much mileage out of a garment and therefore it should have mix and match possibilities,” adds Jay.
Whenever possible shop for garments of neutral colours like black, white, grey, brown, beige, navy which can be teamed with discreet prints or other colours. For the lady executive of the 90s dressing up for work is not just a 9 to 5 problem but could end up at a business dinner.