Photo: Roberto Hund
When it comes to the workplace, dressing for success is not just a cliché but a proven way to boost one’s confidence and projection of professionalism. Your work wardrobe should reflect your personal Style while meeting the demands of a functional and fashionable office environment. From classic essentials to statement pieces, we've curated a list of work wardrobe pieces to help you create outfits that exude confidence and make a lasting impression.
What Clothes Do You Actually Need for Work?
- Classic White Button-Down Shirt
A white button-down is a timeless wardrobe staple that can effortlessly transition from boardroom meetings to after-work cocktails. Choose a well-fitted classic white button-down shirt or explore variations with unique collars, small prints, or subtle ruffles to add a touch of flair to your work attire.
- Conservative Black Blazer
A fitted black blazer is the ultimate workwear essential. It has the power to transform any outfit, whether you pair it with a pencil skirt for a polished look or throw it over a casual ensemble to add a touch of professionalism. Remember to choose a blazer that fits you perfectly to maintain a sleek and put-together appearance.
Photo: John Diez
- Tailored Dresses and Skirts
Short-sleeve dresses and pencil skirts offer versatility and elegance for the office. A well-tailored short-sleeve dress is ideal for summer, while a pencil skirt hugs your curves and gives you a sleek profile. Experiment with different colors and styles that complement your body shape while adhering to your workplace dress code.
- Chic and Comfy Pants and Denim
Invest in well-fitting black pants and dark denim for a wardrobe foundation that combines comfort and style. Black pants can be paired with a white button-down shirt for an effortlessly chic look, while dark wash or black jeans work well for casual workplaces. Opt for pants that are tailored and cropped at the ankle for a relaxed yet professional appearance, perfect if you’re working in creative fields like copywriting, advertising, graphic design, web design, game design, and so on.
- Cardigans
Cardigans are perfect for layering and can instantly dress an outfit up or down. Not to mention, it’s excellent to keep the chill away. To get the best value for your money, shop for cardigans in neutral colors. This ensures they can be used for layering a lot of your corporate attire.
Photo: Sora Shimazaki
Essential Accessories You'll Need for the Perfect Business Casual Attire
- Pearls and Shiny Studs
Pearls and diamond studs add a touch of elegance to any work outfit. A classic string of white pearls or a pair of shiny studs can instantly elevate your look and draw attention to your facial features. Also experiment with other jewelry of different colors, textures, and shapes to expand your accessory collection.
- Tote Bags
A high-quality tote bag is both practical and chic, providing ample space to organize your work essentials. When shopping for one, look for a tote with a zippered pocket and padded interior to keep your laptop or tablet secure and safe.
- Accent Pieces and Hairstyles
Let your personal style shine through with accent pieces. Experiment with statement necklaces, bold bracelets, or vibrant shoes that add a pop of color to your work outfits. Additionally, don't underestimate the power of hairstyles. A power ponytail or a sleek updo can instantly make you feel put-together and confident.
Photo: Bsr gulluk
Let’s Talk Must-Have Women’s Footwear for Work
- Pumps, Loafers, and Flats
Choose stylish footwear that you can wear all day to avoid developing painful bunions and rashes on your feet. Moreover, if you’re wearing short dresses or skits, remember to don proper hosiery to keep your legs warm and maintain a modest look.
For important meetings or job interviews, pumps are essential as they help you maintain a great posture. Meanwhile, loafers and pointed flats should be a part of your everyday outfit as they strike a balance between professionalism and comfort. In addition, consider having a go-to pair of black, nude, and navy heels for those dressier corporate days. When worn in neutral colors, these heels can match different outfits and occasions.
- Oxfords and Sandals
Oxfords add a touch of menswear-inspired style to your business outfit. They work well with tailored pants and dresses for a chic and modern look. In warmer weather, low-heeled sandals can be a comfortable and professional choice. Look for styles with straps for added support, and closed-toe style.
- Sneaker for Work
If you are considering wearing sneakers to work, choose clean styles, in good condition, and relatively minimalist. Avoid overly flashy or athletic-looking sneakers, as they might not be suitable for a professional environment. Nothing too bright and cheesy: opt for a pair of timeless white or black sneakers that will keep your overall business casual look simple and strict.
Photo: Jeff Denlea
Put a Business Outfit in 5 Simple Steps
Putting together a business outfit can be easy if you follow these five simple steps:
1. Dress Code Understanding:
Familiarize yourself with the dress code of the specific business environment. Some workplaces might have a formal dress code, while others may be more casual or have a business-casual policy. Make sure you understand what is expected in your workplace or the event you are attending.
2. Choose a Classic Base:
Start with a classic base for your outfit. For men, this could be a well-fitted dress shirt and dress pants. For women, a tailored blouse and dress pants or a knee-length pencil skirt are good options. Stick to neutral colors like black, navy, gray, or beige as they are versatile and appropriate for most business settings.
3. Add a Blazer or Suit Jacket:
Incorporate a blazer or suit jacket into your outfit. This piece instantly elevates the look and gives it a professional touch. Make sure the blazer complements the color and style of your base. A navy blazer is a timeless choice for both men and women.
4. Choose Professional Shoes:
Select appropriate shoes that match the formality of your outfit. For men, classic leather dress shoes in black or brown are usually a safe bet. Women can opt for closed-toe pumps or flats in neutral colors. Make sure the shoes are comfortable, as you may be wearing them for an extended period.
5. Accessorize Wisely:
Keep your accessories simple and elegant. For men, a classic watch and a subtle tie can add a polished touch. Women can opt for minimal jewelry like stud earrings and a simple necklace. Avoid loud or flashy accessories that might distract from your professional appearance.
Let's summarize....
Creating a fashionable and functional work wardrobe is an opportunity to showcase your personal style while maintaining professionalism. It’s a fun challenge for every fashion professional, but a daunting prospect for others. Hopefully, through this simple style guide, you can become your own stylist. Additionally, by building a versatile work wardrobe, you'll be able to save not your time, but money as well.
Liz
