It’s easy to look at your wardrobe and feel fatigued by the mere thought of fathoming new work outfits. After all, it’s far too easy to reach for the failsafe (albeit often rather dull) combination of black trousers and a blouse. These days, there are less firm and fast rules around what’s inappropriate in the office. Bikinis and ballgowns are still off the table, but outfit ideas containing jeans and cosy knits have infiltrated this once suited and booted space.
That said, there is still quite the divide on how ‘dressed up’ you need to be in the office and with hybrid working alive and well for many of us – it’s important to mark a distinction between WFH outfits and IRL office attire. Of course, some jobs will require a more practical approach but if you’re simply after a few work outfits to get you through the week – you’ve come to the right place.
So, from matching cardi-jumper combos, to pleated skirts and even office-friendly denim – here are 7 easy outfit ideas to try now…
1. A Matching Cardigan + Jumper
Knitwear but make it smart – a matching cardigan and sweater is one of the most easy peasy work outfits that is just as comfy as it looks. Wear with tailored trousers and smart shoes (opt for a monk strap or loafer) and you’re good to go.
2. Opt For The Classics
It may sound obvious, but a great blazer will instantly ensure your work outfits are office friendly. Then stick to the classics, a pair of grey trousers, a crisp white shirt and low block heels that you’ll be able to wear all day are the building blocks of great work outfits.
3. Upgrade Your Knitwear
Behold the power of a knit dress, aka a seriously chic way to do work outfits. Opt for loose fitting maxi lengths that will look super chic and require minimal effort when getting ready in a rush. Wear with leather flats and neat jewellery to finish everything off.
4. A Roll Neck + Pleated Skirt
A pleated skirt is a must have for this season when it comes to work outfits. It’s a smart silhouette that will always look neat as pin and boardroom ready. Add some colour with a bright roll neck. In colder months, wear with long knee-high boots for extra warmth for your commute.
5. Consider Smart Double Denim
If your office is denim friendly, then lean into it! Double denim is an easy win when time is tight in the morning – switch out your usual jeans for a denim maxi skirt and denim shirt combo to keep things looking smart.
6. A Statement Suit
If you want to turn heads for all the right reasons, try a suit that’s extra snappy. Buyer Tiffany Hsu had an excellent tailoring moment at Milan Fashion Week, where she wore an apple green two-piece. Whatever your hue of choice, make sure it packs a punch.
7. Wear Head-To-Toe Black
It might be a cliché but wearing head-to-toe black really is a shortcut to looking polished. Just ask influencer Ellie Delphine, who wore this brilliant blanket coat and capri trousers combo in Paris, adding a fabulous pair of pointed flats to complete the chic outfit story.
This story originally appeared on GRAZIA UK.