Look the business: Spring

A chunky piece of statement jewellery is a sure-fire way to spruce up a work outfit when a little glamour is required. You can pick this up staple piece from John Lewis for £30
Photograph: PR

Accessories can be worn over a neatly buttoned blouse for a classic take on elegance, as seen on the catwalk at 3.1 Phillip Lim
Photograph: Jemal Countess/Getty Images

Guys, see in the spring with short sleeves – it's the only respectable way to show a little flesh in the office. Keep collars crisp and sleeves elbow-length to carry it off with style, as seen at Raf Simons
Photograph: PR

And when it gets nippy, throw on a sleeveless tank in a classic fitted fine-knit and work that preppy office look. You can find this one at Jaeger for £65
Photograph: PR

There's only so much you can do with office-friendly spring wear. But when the weather clears, slash your trouser legs for above-the-knee shorts. The unhemmed look, as seen at Prada, is deliberate
Photograph: Stefano Rellandini/Reuters/Corbis

But if unravelling threads isn't really your thing (nor taking scissors to your trousers), buy a pair of pinstripe tailored girl shorts instead, such as this pair from Reiss, £79
Photograph: PR

OK, so she might look ridiculous, but this Marc Jacobs model is carrying a potential office must-have: the bum bag is back. You'd be surprised how handy it is and you'll never be left wondering where your pen is again
Photograph: Dan & Corina Lecca

Of course, no one's really suggesting you splash out hundreds on a designer bum bag. Keep it cheap(-ish) with something like this £30 one, designed by Christopher Shannon for Eastpak
Photograph: PR

Zoom in on this Salvatore Ferragamo model's left hand – see his sleek case? Neat, no? And you'll be safe in the knowledge that you'll never make the blunder of exposing confidential work material to prying eyes
Photograph: Rex Features/Olycom SPA

This beautiful Smythson leather case will do the trick nicely too – it's thin, discreet and very, very stylish. Cost: £345
Photograph: PR

At last, a low heel you can walk in for work, as seen at Stella McCartney
Photograph: PR

... while these suede ones come in a shade neutral enough to go with anything in your work wardrobe. Find these at La Redoute for £45
Photograph: PR