Each of us is a walking, visual story.  Each accessory we wear, how we've styled our hair, how we've dressed ourselves, even the way we walk - all shares something about who we are. So that you can let your story shine, here's 5 fashion mistakes women in business should avoid.  

The daggy cardigan

It's tempting and easy in the cooler months to wear our weekend cardigans to work. These tend to be drapey and too casual. For a polished look, replace your cardigans with some tailored casual blazers.  Aside from looking chic, it exudes elegance and professionalism fit for business.

An interesting blazer can easily transform a basic pair of black pants or a plain skirt in to a smart look. Here are a couple of blazers which can add that touch of professionalism to your appearance.  (Also, you can easily dress them down with jeans and flat shoes for your casual weekend outfits).

Black Blazer from Birds Nest

White Blazer from David Lawrence

The worn-out handbag

Bags are the best accessory and accent that any woman can use in order to boost their look and outfit. If your bag is not holding its original shape, has major signs of wear or looks too old fashioned,  it needs to go.

If you're buying a new bag keep it fairly structured as opposed to overly slouchy, but there is no need to keep it neutral. A beautiful deep red or a pink handbag can lift a business outfit perfectly. Also a bag that has different textures such as patent leather mixed with smooth leather can add lot of interest.

Here are two bags that we think hit the mark but are also great steal at under $150.

Basque Red Bag from Myer

Ohh La La Taupe Bag from Myer

Replace t-shirts and cheap looking fabrics

Casual looking cotton tee-style tops and any fabric that looks "cheap" will let an outfit down. A soft silk blouse makes a clean, crisp and feminine change over a t-shirty fabric top.

The top part of your outfit is much more noticeable than the bottom part, so it makes sense to invest in good quality shirts and blouses. Also a good quality natural fabric like silk or even viscose will sit better and breathes better than a synthetic fabric such as polyester.

Silk Purple Top from Sports Craft

Spot Shirt from Marcs

Avoid chunky, heavy shoes

Shoes are every woman's vice. It's important to consider that in the business world however, heavy platform heels and big chunky shoes can give a more casual impression.

Choose a rather simple and fine pair of shoes that will enable you to work and walk comfortably and that complements your silhouette & outfit.

Natural Wedges from Wittner

Sandler Muse Court Heels from David Jones

Say no to dull and conservative jewellery

Smartly accessorised looks can be the finishing tough that helps you stand out of the crowd in a stylish way. Accessories are great way to add personality and a touch of uniqueness to your look. You don't want to look tool dull or boring.

While it's important not to overdo accessories and avoid loud, noisy or flashy jewellery - that doesn't mean you need to be boring. Choose accessories that will enhance your personality.

A classy textured watch, coloured specs or and an edgy necklace can add some touch of fashion in your outfit and a bit of uniqueness to your look.

Watch from Mimco

Dogstar Necklace from Birds Nest

Specs from Specsavers

As a woman in business you want to communicate a smart and successful image. Avoiding the mistakes we've listed today can help you tell your story and project the kind of professionalism that clients will surely be attracted to.

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About our guest blogger:

Vesna's love for fashion and style developed when she was just a child growing up in Argentina, where fashion was infused within the local culture and the latest European were paraded daily.

She is the director of Adelaide-based fashion consultancy, Vesna Personal Stylist and she strongly believes that style can make you feel more empowered and stronger.