WHAT TO WEAR
What to Wear to Work
If you’re heading back into the office full time or part-time after working from home in your cosiest loungewear (or PJs if you’re like us) and are looking for some much needed workwear inspiration we’ve got you covered. The pandemic has changed the way we dress for the office gone are the days of formal dress codes which required tailored blazers and column skirts.
Now, we’re dressing with comfort and expression in mind (we’re loving the dopamine dressing wave of bright hues) and the office setting is no exception. Our go-to looks this season include vibrant printed shirt dresses, wide leg trousers paired with chic blouses and the ever faithful smock dress.
Smart Casual Outfits to Wear To Work
How to style jeans for work
Styling jeans for the office starts with picking the right pair of jeans. A pair of straight leg black jeans is the perfect base for a smart casual outfit and styled with an oversized shirt and leather loafers you can be sure that your outfit will keep up with you on even your busiest day.
A pair of wide leg blue denim jeans with a flattering high waist pair perfectly with a tucked in floral blouse adding a pair of heeled wedges will give the illusion of longer legs – just make sure your jeans fall just above the floor (no-one wants to drag their jeans and damage the hemline).
A great alternate to jeans is a pair of high waisted wide leg trousers they high waist is flattering and will hide any areas of concern whilst the soft flare of the legs will skim over the hips and thighs for a chic and flattering silhouette.
How to wear a shirt dress for work
The classic shirt dress is the wardrobe workhorse every closet needs. They’re flattering, versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on what your plans are for the day (or night).
For a more modest outfit style a printed shirt dress with closed toe heeled court shoes and button the collar all the way up to show less skin. Leave the top 2-3 buttons undone if you want to create a flattering v-neckline, you can also layer chains to give dimension to the outfit. You can opt for a long sleeve dress for added coverage or in the warmer weather choose a short sleeve option.
If you’re after a more casual outfit style a floral print shirt dress with flat sandals and a denim jacket, it’s the perfect blend of smart and casual whilst still looking put together.
For an evening event (think after-work drinks with the team) you can’t go wrong with a leopard print shirt dress strappy heels and a leather jacket.
No matter the event a shirt dress is the perfect effortless outfit choice; the shirt dress is a classic for this very reason.
Business Formal Outfits to Wear To Work
How to style a blazer for work
The blazer is the perfect piece to pull together an outfit, a fitted tailored blazer which sits at the hips will smarten any look. Layer your blazer over a silk cami top, tailored trousers and kitten heels for a simple yet flattering office look.
Choosing a contrasting colour blazer is a great way to make a statement whilst still retaining a formal feel. Layer a vibrant colour-pop blazer over a classic black shift dress and pair with closed toe heeled mules for a stylish yet still work appropriate outfit.
How to wear a pencil skirt for work
If you’re a fan of the timeless pencil skirt the you’ll be happy to know that they make the perfect base for a formal office outfit. Traditionally pencil skirts are a slim fitting straight skirt which can fall to the knee or just below. Wear with a floral blouse (or if you prefer a bolder print opt for a leopard print) tucked in, a tailored blazer and kitten heels for a smart office look that will flatter the figure.
If you’re not a fan of a fitted skirt a fit & flare midi skirt is a comfortable alternative that can be just as versatile and equally formal when styled with a crisp white shirt tucked in and closed toe heels.
What Not To Wear To Work
When it comes to deciding what not to wear to work it depends on the kind of dress codes and environment you’re working in. If your company is more formal then a revealing top or a mini skirt might not be considered appropriate.
The key is to make sure you are comfortable and reflect your personality in your clothes; this will ensure you feel your best all day!
Building your Workwear wardrobe
When it comes to building a versatile, stylish and comfortable work wardrobe these are our top tips.
1. Find the colours that you feel best in. Whether you’re one for bold shades or prefer to stick to neutral tones stick to the colours you love. If you wear colours that you enjoy wearing you’ll feel confident.
2. Get your size and fit right. If you’re between sizes size up and get a local tailor to take in the excess, shorten sleeves or take-up hemlines where you need them to. This will ensure your work-drobe always looks polished.
3. Choose your fabrics wisely. Cotton, linen and viscose are lightweight breathable fabrics which are great when it’s warmer and wool fibres are lovely when you need to stay warm.
4. Have fun! Try different prints, colours and silhouettes this is the best way to find your personal style and what works for you and your role.
