A few years ago when I was pursuing my BSc in Food technology, I spent some time as an intern in a food factory. By then, I had lost any serious interest in pursuing a future in food science and already had my sights set on a professional career in the world of fashion.
Photography – Charles Ngomo of Royal Reel Photography
So the worst part of working as a food technologist in a lab was not the work itself (since I have always loved sciences) but the fact that I was required to adhere to a strict dress code; which is normally protective clothing (lab coats) with headwear for laboratory and factory work. While any kind of makeup, perfume and over the top accessories were strictly banned.
Being passionate about pretty clothes and personal beauty, I felt suffocated having to look like a little grey mouse.
I admire my sisters who even with a regular 9-5 job, in an office for instance, manage to look sharp and even elegant, in case the management allows that they explore their fashion choices. And in fact there are many ways to spice up a conservative office outfit, even within the limits set by the job. However even in fashion or beauty related businesses, Some employees often have to wear a uniform or follow a specific dress code – like my friends at the MAC make up shops have to wear all black ensembles. But they have managed to spice up their all blacks without losing their individuality.
You surely can appreciate how happy and privileged I feel to have a job where I can dress up every day and which permits me to be as edgy and daring as I can be. It is a wonderful profession where beauty and fashion forwardness are not only appreciated but contributes to my success. This outfit for example, is one that I would wear to a formal meeting, adding the faux fur scarf elevates the outfit and adds some sense of originality.
How do you keep your work outfits fun and edgy ?
Photos shot at Hotel Rudi
On my lips – Merlot by Dose of colours, Pant suit – Contact , Faux fur scarf- Fashion bar at veteran house Nairobi, Shoes – same here, Earrings – H&M, Glasses-sold out from Retrocity sunglasses
