Ask Mary Lou

Each month, Mary Lou answers (and we post!) a fashion question from one of our site visitors. If you have something you want to know to help pull together your wardrobe with style and confidence, ask away!

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For February 2008:

Q: I am always cold in my office. Is it appropriate to wear ponchos, shawls and wraps while I am working at my desk? I’ve been wearing these for a while and have been getting some weird looks!

A: Although the layering looks you are describing are indeed warm and fashionable, they are still considered outerwear and are not the best choice to help keep you warm indoors, especially in professional business environments.

If you have a job that requires you to interact with others, you want to select apparel that instantly communicates that you are focused on your job and the work at hand. Wearing any kind of outerwear all day long does not set a business tone and can be distracting to others. Since many do not consider this type of clothing to be appropriate, you also risk alienating people you work with or having them question your judgment. Clothing that wraps around your body like a blanket can also look sloppy and can pose safety issues as anything that drapes and falls can get caught in a variety of machinery and office equipment.

To keep warm, think layering traditional office attire — knit tops under blazers, cardigan sweaters over shirts and blouses. I'm also a big fan of silk underwear and tights as both provide a thin, warm layer that does not create any extra bulk. Hope this helps. Best to you!