I recently ran into a former schoolmate around Raffles Place, and, after we exchanged the requisite pleasantries, he asked: "How come you're not wearing heels and makeup? Isn't it a work day?" I was confused, given that I was wearing closed-toe flats and one of the (many) solid-coloured shift dresses in my wardrobe reserved for the office. I am not in the habit of wearing either heels or makeup, except when suitable occasions arise, I replied. My work takes me from factories in far-flung industrial estates to plush boardrooms - sometimes on the same day - and I have to dress accordingly.

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