The well-dressed exec: tips for her.

• Author: Sweeten, Elizabeth
• Position: Executive Living - Clothing and accessories

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN don't have to behave like men to succeed in the workplace, and they certainly don't have to dress like them. Sales Associate Christy Heath, who has helped working women with their shopping needs at Nordstrom for 11 years, says workplace attire this season is comfortable, with feminine touches. And savvy dressers can incorporate many of today's trends even in conservative environments, she asserts. "No matter what your body type or age," Heath says, "there's something for everybody."

Suiting

"You already have a lot of black, so this season, expand your horizon in color," Heath advises. Add light neutrals (ivory and camel tones) as well as splashes of red, rust, burgundy and plum. Jackets are shorter, just below the waist or mid-hip, and shaped to accentuate the torso. Trendy details include leather (piping, collars, belts, trim), metal closures and faux fur, including detachable pieces, such as a removable fur collar for an otherwise businesslike blazer. The collar can be buttoned on at the end of the day for a more playful evening look.

Current pant styles include wide-leg trousers with flat fronts. "You're seeing pants with an actual waist," Heath says. A wider pant with a higher waist should be paired with a shorter jacket. "You don't want to put a big long coat over a big wide--leg pant."

Mid-calf and longer pegged skirts look great with knee-high boots (one way a professional woman can incorporate a must-have trendy item). Pair longer skirts with shorter jackets and fitted tops. Slits and flounce (in both skirts and pants) add romance and movement for fluid looks that travel from the office to an evening event.

Underpinning and layering pieces

Heath reports, "We're seeing an influence to the romantic." Lace, ruching and ruffles abound, with more conservative versions available for work. "And everybody needs a great white shirt," she says, "preferably something that has stretch in the fabric and texture in the design."

Sweaters are soft, with cowls and draping effects at the neckline...