With everyone well and truly back in the office for 2023, it’s high time we updated our work wardrobes. Gone are the days of mundane two-pieces, crinkled shirts and dull suiting. Here, we run through a few easy and sleek styles to incorporate into the weekday wardrobe, from power-dressing pieces to casually chic cuts, remembering that dressing for the office today is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort and style.
Tailoring
For women, current trends are taking the classic power suit to the next level. Elevate your office attire with a perfectly-cut blazer and add to the look with a waistcoat rendered in a similar tone. Sharp tailoring is an absolute must for its ability to give your casual, everyday pieces (a midi dress or a pair of jeans, for instance) a more formal edge.
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Men, it’s time to swap out boring dress shirts and suit jackets for something a bit more considered and cutting edge. Embrace a fashion-forward look by opting for a double-breasted cut, or by trying something in a more oversized fit. There is a world beyond the suits and chinos you bought five years ago — time to explore it.
Everyday Accessories
But it’s not just about what you wear, it’s also about the accessories you pair with your outfits. Women can elevate their look with a statement bag, or a piece of exceptional jewellery (Tiffany & Co.’s new Lock Collection has caught our attention for its more contemporary style, perfect for an everyday work look). Men can add a touch of personality with a sleek timepiece or ring.
White Shirt
You can’t forget about the classic white shirt. For women and men, this is a timeless piece, fit for any occasion and able to be dressed up or down with ease. Whether you prefer a fitted, tailored look or a more relaxed, billowy fit, the white shirt is a versatile piece that is an absolute essential in any work wardrobe. Pair it with tailored trousers or a skirt for a sophisticated look, or dress it down with your favourite pair of jeans for something more approachable.
Office Denim
While denim has always been a staple of the weekend wardrobe, it has increasingly been making its way into the office environment too, with various iterations of everyday denim now very acceptable to wear at work. Whether you opt for a structured denim shirt or a stylish pair of jeans, denim will add a touch of ‘cool’ to any office outfit. Pair it with crisp tailoring for a more sophisticated look.
Loafers
Comfort is key when it comes to office footwear, and this season is all about the loafer. The ultimate combination of formal and casual (and the shoe that works with just about anything), the loafer is as chic when paired with womenswear as it is with men’s looks, and whether you opt for a classic black penny loafer or something more statement-making, there’s a style out there to suit every taste.
Work Bags
Given that we spend whole days at the office, and a significant amount of time commuting, it’s imperative to have a bag that not only holds all of our essentials but that also doesn’t look out of place against our chic workwear ensembles. From structured totes to sleek satchels and practical crossbody styles, the options here are endless. Our advice? Choose a bag that balances functionality with form perfectly, and don’t be afraid to opt for something that stands out.
