What Works At Work?

Casual dress may finally be acceptable in the workplace, but fashion designers are predicting a return to dressier styles for fall. So what is the appropriate work-wear uniform? Two fashion retailers are providing an easy answer this month. For its 50th anniversary, Ann Taylor is reintroducing the silk shirtdress, below, that made the retailer famous in 1954. The original pattern came from the founder's father, a dress wholesaler. For those who aspire to something hipper than this retro style, Express is betting on the sleek, sophisticated look, introducing a new line of fitted pants, sweaters and tailored jackets for men and women called Express Design Studio.