Across the airwaves, TV’s career women mix substance with style, and boast wardrobes you can fashion yourself — all for less than $500. So whether you’re behind a desk or always on the run, here’s how to dress to impress.
‘Scandal’ Chic
In ABC’s “Scandal,” Kerry Washington plays Olivia Pope, a high-powered political publicist with style worthy of its own press release. Her wardrobe reeks of Prada, Escada and Max Mara, but to get a similar look that’s more affordable, simply stay neutral — nudes, grays and pinks are the spark of Pope’s pale fire.
Clockwise, from left: Suit jacket, $425, and trousers, $210, both at Reiss, 387 West Broadway; Silk-look blouse, $24.95 at H&M, 1328 Broadway; Oasis poly-blend coat, $170 at oasis.andotherbrands.com; Piera by Elaine J onyx and quartz necklace, $212 at maxandchloe.com; Jessica Simpson suede pumps, $79 at zappos.com Leather-look top-handle bag, $84 at modcloth.com
Va Va ‘Veep’
Julia Louis-Dreyfus plays fictional Vice President Selina Meyer on HBO’s “Veep” and befittingly sports ensembles bathed in red, white and blue. Commander-in-Chief fashion is all about commanding attention, so grab a sleek dress, add star-spangled accessories and rock the tote.
Clockwise, from left: Alice + Olivia woven peplum dress, $195 at theoutnet.com; Crystal earrings, $44 at baublebar.com; Kate Spade suede star heels, $328 at piperlime.com; Freshwater pearl necklace, $139 at talbots.com; Quilted leather look bag, $55 at aldoshoes.com
Show Your ‘Cards’
“House of Cards,” a Netflix original, sees Robin Wright as Claire Underwood, a lobbyist and non-profit organizer with clothes as sharp as her personality. Her look calls for crisp oxford shirts and pencil skirts, with no-nonsense accessories that don’t skimp on style.
Clockwise, from left: Skirt, $168 at French Connection, 435 West Broadway; Cotton shirt, $54 at Tommy Hilfiger, 681 Fifth Ave.; Patent heels, $89 at ninewest.com; Tweed strap watch, $120 at sperrytopsider.com; Readers, $75 at eyebobs.com; MM6 Maison Martin Margiela velvet iPad clutch, $395 at shopbop.com
‘Good’ Style
CBS’ “The Good Wife” follows Julianna Margulies as a wife and mother who returns to litigation after a 13-year hiatus when her husband is imprisoned. To set the bar high, pair a little black dress with a colorful jacket for a style statement that’s still courtroom appropriate.
Clockwise, from left: Textured jersey dress, $248, Ted Baker London, 107 Grand St.; Crepe jacket, $110 at Topshop, 478 Broadway; Danielle Nicole leather bag, $98 at piperlime.com; Suede and leather heels, $128 at anntaylor.com; Cubic zirconia ring, $39.50 at bananarepublic.com
Wear It ‘Home’
In Showtime’s “Homeland,” Claire Danes plays bipolar CIA officer Carrie Mathison in togs meant for mean streets. Ditch dresses for jeans and pair them with a leather jacket, boots and a bag you’re not afraid to get dirty. Don’t forget a scarf — perfect for going incognito.
Clockwise, from left: Denim jeans, $44.95 at ae.com; Leather jacket with sheepskin collar, $475 at Massimo Dutti, 689 Fifth Ave.; Jersey top, $26.50 at gap.com; Leather drawstring bag, $178 at vincecamuto.com; Dolce Vita leather boots, $189 at urbanoutfitters.com; Paul & Joe knit scarf, $95 at farfetch.com