Believe it or not, the work world is evolving. Most jobs don’t require you to wear business attire on a daily basis. However, figuring out what to wear to the office can be a bit challenging. The whole process of getting ready for the can leave you with daunting questions like “Is this appropriate?” Or “Am I too casual?” Luckily for you, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite office-friendly looks that will have you cozy enough to hit up a after-work happy hour and professional enough to sit in a meeting with your boss. You may even land a promotion!
When I landed my first job after college, I listened to the advice of my mother and dressed as professional as possible on the first day. When I got to the office, I was shocked to find everyone dressed so casual. I mean, my colleagues literally had on sneakers – some even wore flip flops!
While their choice of attire made the culture appear a bit more welcoming and comfortable, it left me feeling a bit anxious about my own work wardrobe. As most people know, working in magazines can come with an underlying pressure to always look your chicest. I was, of course, willing to take on the task as I live for building wardrobes and don’t really need a reason to go shopping. However, I understand that not everyone feels the same.
If you’re looking to freshen up your work wardrobe, or even add to it, these are my suggestions.
- A Blazer
I know, I know – I thought we said blazers were a thing of the past? While that may be true, they’ve been given a second shot at life and you don’t want to miss this trend. Instead of pairing your blazer with slacks, try wearing the piece with ripped denim jeans or a pleated skirt. Spice things up by shopping for blazers in bold colors like pinks and yellows. My go-to look is the pink blazer I purchased from Zara paired with light-wash blue jeans and my white Nike Air Force 1s. The look is sophisticated yet still very calm.
2. A Show-Stopping Belt
Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize. Find a statement belt that you can pair with jeans to really dress up the look. You can even wear the belt around a maxi skirt with mules.
3. Vibrant Shoes
Just because you’re at work, doesn’t mean you have to be boring. Make a statement in pair of metallic platform sneakers or an orange pair of mules. These looks can pair well with a denim on denim look or an oversized blouse and jeans.
4. A Reliable Tote
If you’re like me, you carry your laptop to and from the office. Why not do it in style? For my work bag I chose a metallic piece from French Connection. It was affordable, durable and pretty stylish. Don’t worry about it not matching your looks each day – it’s meant to stand alone.
5. Timeless Bottoms
I used to hate repeating outfits, but that changed once I got a job and couldn’t afford to buy multiple outfits with each check. Because of this I learned how to repeat in ways that made it seem as if I was wearing something brand new. One day I’d wear my favorite Zara red and black pleated skirt with a white t-shirt and mules and on other days I’d pair it with a blazer and sneakers. It’s all about switching it up and trying something new.
Tailored, chic and streamlined for the win. Gap Button Down Poplar Shirt, $39
