"There’s nothing worse than being in a rush to get out the door in the morning, only to be delayed by the nagging, intrusive thought of “I don’t know what to wear”—except for when it pops into your head on a morning you’re heading to the office. Work outfits are a notoriously gray area in fashion, especially if you work in an office that deems itself to be business casual. But there is good news about getting dressed for your 9 to 5. The days of the notorious ill-fitting blazers and scratchy, tight blouses are over—personal style has officially made its way into workwear.
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Whether you work in an office a couple of days a week or are back full-time, it’s inevitable to feel some frustration about getting dressed for work. Work outfits can feel dull, boring, and totally untrue to your style, but I’m here to remind you that that need not be the case. Getting dressed for the office can be fun—and even something you look forward to—with a slight mindset adjustment. By styling your office-appropriate pieces in new, out-of-the-box ways, you might even wake up excited to get dressed for work.
Ready to upgrade your business casual outfits? Here are five work-ready looks to wear to the office this week.
Monday
Cardigan (Plus) | T-Shirt (Plus) | Trousers | Flats | Necklace | Tote
If you’re looking for the ultimate workwear formula, this is it. A cardigan and trousers are essential for any closet, workwear-focused or not. Try buttoning your cardigan all the way up to function as a top for those days where you can’t be bothered to find the right blouse, or leave it unbuttoned over a tee on the days when things around the office are feeling a bit more laid-back. Swap the trousers for a pair of jeans, and you’ve got yourself an effortless, after-hours look.
Tuesday
Top | Skirt (Plus) | Boots | Tote | Bangles
Ah, a midi skirt and a pair of knee-high boots–is there anything better? This season, alternate your slip skirt with a leather midi for a bit of added texture and juxtaposed masculinity against your lightweight tops. Though you could pair the silk blouse with a silk slip, the heaviness of the leather midi will create depth and result in a look you’ll turn to again and again.
Wednesday
Sweater | T-Shirt (Plus) | Skirt | Kitten Heels | Necklace | Tote
This is another great example of how to style with the rule of opposites in mind. When reaching for a chunky crewneck sweater, I’d recommend something a bit lighter (as opposed to leather) on the bottom, like this silk slip skirt. Instead of opting for the knee-high boots, try adding a dainty kitten heel to create a more seamless line from head to toe.
Thursday
Trench Coat (Plus) | Sweater | Trousers | Flats | Earrings | Tote
Styling a workwear look that’s true to your personal style is all about layering and accessorizing. Feeling like you’ve done the whole crewneck-and-trousers thing a bit too much lately? Enhance the look with a few statement accessories, your favorite coat, and a pop of color—be it your work bag or a pair of ballet flats—and the overdone combo will feel good as new.
Friday
Blazer (Plus) | Dress | Boots | Belt | Earrings | Tote
A slip dress is one of those universal, year-round closet essentials that can be worn easily from day to night. Layer yours with an oversized blazer or a cardigan for office hours, then remove the added layers and stack on the jewelry for an effortlessly chic, off-duty ensemble after work. For those days when you’ve hit snooze one too many times, try this combination in an all-black look with bold accents.
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.