5 essentials every back-to-work wardrobe needs
PSA: smart clothing doesn't have to be boring. And we’ve got 5 essential buys that prove just that. So whether you're into classic tailoring, standout pieces or a more relaxed approach to office attire, these are the outfits that will make Monday morning easy. Ok, easy-er.
You’ve got an interview coming up, and that black shift dress you’ve been wearing since 2013 just won’t cut it. A new dress or outfit for an interview will make you feel confident, comfortable, and like you can definitely secure that contract. Try a midi dress with statement detail like an oversized print or exaggerated sleeves and pair it with sleek accessories.
No back-to-work outfit is complete without a shiny new pair of shoes. For something stylish but walkable we love preppy leather loafers and smart brogues, and for more formal offices, a pair of black ankle boots or even a court shoe could be what you’re looking for. It’s not unheard of to wear trainers to the office these days – just make sure they’re scuff-free and paired with loose tailoring to smarten them up.
The statement blouses that saw us through endless Zooms are here to stay, even if you’re no longer WFH. Choose one with an exaggerated collar and channel that BCE (big collar energy), or opt for a boho-inspired one with embroidery at the yolk. While you’re going for bold, you might as well add some trophy jewels too which will sparkle whether you’re on camera or not.
If it's a clean and timeless working wardrobe you are hoping to build, then some classic tailoring will be a good place to start. Pair classic tailored trousers with a well-cut blazer and form the basis of endless 9-5 outfits. Add a crisp white shirt on days when you need to look like you mean business, or channel ‘90s office workers with a statement roll neck under your blazer. Nothing says ‘take me seriously’ like turtlenecks and tailoring.
Discard that old pashmina you’ve got hanging off the back of your office chair for days when you just can’t agree on where the thermostat should be set and upgrade your ‘I’m freezing’ look with a statement knit. An oversized cardigan will bring a laidback edge to almost any outfit but keeping it neutral in colour and silhouette will make sure it’s smart enough for meetings.