Dress-down Friday: the three dreaded words that give license to all manner of sins in the boardroom.While we don???t expect you, dear reader, to hold court in flip flops, slashed denim or naval-grazing tops (yes, we have witnessed them all), striking a balance that lends itself to both meetings and post-work engagements can be tricky.

First, try swapping blazers for casual jacket cuts, like smart bombers (see Dorothy Perkins above), dark denim button-ups or khaki styles with a military flourish.These will give slim trouser, shirt and loafer ensembles a looser, relaxed silhouette.

Next up, ditch ditsy blousons for structured shirts, and wear with wide strides.This chimes with a Scandi-approach to casual wear and surpasses skinny jeans and heeled boots in terms of chicness.

Shoe-wise it???s all about the trainer until the weather warms up and you can step into mules.Keep plain white styles sparkling or try an embellished slip-on design for character.

Lastly, never underestimate a new lip or nail colour as a purse-friendly way to lift you out of your straight work persona.As Audrey Hepburn once said, "there is a shade of red for every woman."

4 failsafe pieces to wear on casual FridaysThe printed shirt

Button-up shirts over culottes for an androgynous vibe that beats sheer, flirty blouses for sophistication.

Gauchos shirt, ??12, Bruta

The statement knit

Loud and proud knitwear says something about your personality.Wear with an A-line skirt and block-heel booties.

Cashmere jumper, ??390, Bella Freud

The smart trainer

Haven???t found your trainer stride yet?Try a smarter, slip-on style, which only hints at the sports luxe look.

Lanvin leather floral appliqu?? trainers, ??435, Matches Fashion

The skirt with personality

Trophy skirts do all the hard work for you.Wear with a plain crew-neck top and minimal accessories.

MSGM printed silk crepe de chine skirt, ??325, Matches Fashion

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