If you have a pulse and a job in an office, I’m talking to you. Is it just me, or does getting dressed in the morning feel particularly dreadful? My mornings usually involve multiple outfit changes and a temper tantrum. Why is it so hard to come up with casual work outfits?
Uncomplicated. Quick. Comfortable. Not boring, but subtle. And because an understated outfit always always requires a little extra oopmh, tantrum by tantrum, I’ve learned how to layer, when to use color, which pieces to accessorize with, and how to translate trends for the workplace. I’m painting with a wide brush to accommodate a broad spectrum of jobs and office cultures. With that said, take each of these 10 tasteful outfit ideas and tailor them to your own circumstances. Scroll on to shop my go-to wardrobe heroes.
Find a Matching Set
Nothing is less complicated than throwing on a coordinating top and bottom and running out the door. Finding a really good set, like this one, is perfect on days when you don’t have the time or energy to try everything you own on.
Tie It All Together
Put a modern twist on a classic office look. Opt for trouser shorts, a funky loafer, and a trendy necktie around a crisp button-up.
Free People Prep Striped Tie
Staud Luisa Long Shorts
Now 55% Off
Play with Textures
If you’re like me, most of what you wear is black. So, to avoid monotony, try mixing up the textures of your pieces, like pairing a wool coat with a leather skirt and ribbed top. It gives your look depth!
Mango Handmade Oversized Wool Coat
Now 35% Off
Veronica Beard Pruitt Ribbed Tee
Lafayette 148 New York A-Line Leather Midi Skirt
Banana Republic Brushed Wool-Cashmere Triangle Scarf
Now 28% Off
Maeden Market Tote
Now 30% Off
Put It In Neutral
I frequent the greys, taupes, creams, and occasionally, navys. I’ve become a veteran at knowing how to stack these hues, and I think this a perfect example. Personally, I would opt for a slouchier bag and a flat pair of shoes to dress it down a tad.
Max Mara Single-Breasted Water-Repellent Twill Trench Coat
COS Boxy Long-Sleeved Polo Shirt
AGOLDE Low Slung Baggy Wide-Leg Jeans
The Row Bindle Suede Tote Bag
Veronica Beard Penny Leather Mule
Lean Into Transitional Pieces
As we slowly slip into spring, don’t be afraid to start incorporating next season’s pieces into your daily attire. Wear your favorite winter sweater with a rain coat, or layer up with warm pieces in pastel hues. This trench coat from J. Crew, for example, is a great transitional piece.
J.Crew Rain-or-Shine Trench
Nili Lotan Coras Sweater
Now 50% Off
Icon Denim Rose Eco Jeans
Nomasei Gris Chiné Socks
By Far Off-White Bea Creased Leather Bag
Now 60% Off
Dress It Down
This is your chance to wear a sweatshirt at work—why would you squander that? Throw a blazer over a plain hoodie, cover that bed head with an elevated baseball hat, and relish in this near-pajama day.
Ducie Corrin Suede Trench Coat
Jacquemus Les Classiques Hoodie
Now 60% Off
Reiss Wide Leg Elasticated Trousers
American Needle Big City Ball Cap
Jeffrey Campbell No-Space Boots
Now 35% Off
Layer with a Stylish Coat
Just like in art, the best outfits have one strong focal point. In this case, a chic coat is all you need. Paired with dark jeans and a tee peeking underneath, you’re good to go.
Toteme Country Coated Cotton Coat
St. Agni Woven Large Tote
Eterne Soft Jersey Fitted Turtleneck Top
Mother Denim The Hustler Roller Sneak
Lizzie Fortunado Studded Silver Mini Arp Earrings
The Row Nobilis Leather Ankle Boots
Add a Pop of Color
Yellows! Pinks! Blues! Spring is here, so it’s time to start adding color back into your wardrobe. I would recommend a bright cherry red or butter yellow this season. When in doubt, try pastels.
Proenza Schouler Sakia Coat
Maje Shirt with Removable Tie
Tory Burch Romy Pebble Leather Bucket Bag
Vaincourt Le Désirable Belt
Salomon Acs + OG Unisex Sneaker
Opt for Comfortable Basics
The perfect white tee (and yes, I have a specific one in mind), a pair of oversized trousers, and a soft sweater is all you really need. This is my go-to look when I’ve hit snooze one too many times and am running more than fashionably late to the office.
& Other Stories Collared Knit Cardigan
Cou Cou Intimates The Baby Tee
Lu Goldie Jordyn Sunglasses
Dragon Diffusion Big Santa Croce Leather Tote Bag
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