Look pulled together - even when you aren't

What should you wear when you're horribly pushed for time and are in desperate need of a polished look? We asked the experts

We've all been there; that cursed Monday morning when the alarm clock rings and we can only groan and push snooze. Then we push it again. And again. And now we're beyond late! To cap it all off, there's that morning meeting, that presentation or that lunch date we wanted to look so 'pulled together' for. Suddenly we're bolting out of bed, heading for the wardrobe, heart sinking. What to wear?

We asked fashion designers and stylists what to wear when we've got to look pulled together, and fast. We asked them to give us pieces that will scream: 'This woman has got it going on. She's neat, organised and on top of things'.

A well-tailored jacket

Always have one good, well-tailored jacket in your wardrobe, says Johanna Martinez, a young Brooklyn-based designer. 'If it's structurally proportionate to your body, you can throw it on over anything, and you'll look instantly polished.'

When looking for a good cut, make sure the shoulder seams sit at the shoulder, not below, she says. Even one centimetre below the shoulders can cause you to look slouchy, a big no-no if you're going for sharp and polished.

A quality knit

Invest in at least one high-quality knitted top or dress. For one thing, it will last longer than your average piece of clothing. Cashmere and cashmere blends are far less likely to fade, pill or need to be ironed. For warmer weather, cashmere-cotton blends are perfect. For cooler climates, a heavier cashmere-wool blended polar neck always looks great.

A bag and shoes that correspond

If your shoes and bag go together, you look like you have it together, says Wendy Mullin, the designer behind the clothing line Built by Wendy. They don't have to match exactly, she notes, but look for corresponding touches. 'If you're wearing black heels, for example, make sure your bag has some black in it to bring it all together.'