Having gotten used to working from home over the last few years, now that hybrid working is here to stay, I need some reminders about how to get dressed up again. The solution? An easy office capsule wardrobe. In the mornings, I don’t like to spend time thinking about what I’m wearing. Instead of trying on endless outfits, I would rather spend my time sipping a morning latte, catching up on the news, and scrolling through the latest updates on my Instagram feed. To cut back on the time I’m spending deciding on what I’m wearing to work, I’ve narrowed down my options to some key office essentials to develop an easy work capsule wardrobe.
Ahead, see the 18 pieces I rely on for my outfits to wear to the Who What Wear office or for smarter days working at home. I will admit that these are pieces I wear to a fashion-centric work environment (that take the latest trends into mind), so they may not be suitable for every workplace, but you can tailor them to your particular environment. Go on to see my outfits and shop the workwear staples I can’t live without.
1. Build a Foundation of Polished Basics:
Style Notes: I tend to invest in great basics that I can wear and re-wear them regularly.
1. An oversized blazer
A black blazer elevates a simple outfit like a T-shirt and jeans but can also be layered over slip skirts or midi dresses.
2. Great t-shirts
I gravitate toward T-shirts with a slightly boxy, oversized silhouette.
3. Wide-leg jeans
I find that jeans with a loose fit—like these ones—are a great fit for the office.
4. Kitten heels
For the office, I look for low kitten heels that are comfortable and easy to walk in.
5. A structured bag
A structured bag is part of my everyday office uniform.
6. Design-forward earrings
I always look for design-forward earrings that have a fun twist but still go with just about everything.
2. Invest in a Tailored Suit
Style Notes: There is no question that suiting has been one of the biggest trends in recent seasons—and it's one that easily translates to the office.
7. A suit jacket
A great suit jacket is a versatile work-wardrobe item that can be paired with any number of outfits.
8. Matching trousers
But a suit jacket looks especially polished when worn with coordinating trousers.
3. Look for Wardrobe Essentials That Are Finished With Interesting Details
Style Notes: Wearing wardrobe essentials that have unexpected silhouettes and cool design elements instantly breathes life into a simple outfit.
9. A button-down with fashion-forward finishes
Instead of wearing a standard button-down, I look for ones that feel special.
10. Modern everyday jewellery
For jewellery, I look for pieces that are versatile enough to wear every day but cool enough that they stand out.
11. An oversized button-down
Endlessly versatile and even better in a fun shade.
12. Interesting textures
Pieces with textures like ribbing or plissé pleats instantly make basics more dynamic.
4. Try A Great Midi Skirt
Style Notes: There's a reason a midi skirt is a classic office-wardrobe staple.
13. A midi skirt
Though you might opt for a more subdued style in some workplaces, I like to wear an updated take on the classic.
5. Use A Chic, Sturdy Tote
Style Notes: I replaced my flimsy canvas carryalls with a leather tote bag, which instantly makes my work outfits feel more pulled together. If you end up carrying your laptop and other items back and forth from your home to the office, I recommend finding a great bag to use on the regular.
14. A chic tote bag
A timeless work bag you can use forever.
6. Rely On A Matching Set
Style Notes: Few things are as easy to throw on as a matching set. Trouser suits are great, but I also love a skirt-and-jumper co-ord.
15. A versatile jumper
Classic prints like stripes are a personal favourite for officewear because they always read well put together.
16. And matching bottoms
How sleek is this as a set?
7. Finish With Tailored Outerwear
Style Notes: In the cooler months, refined outerwear is an easy way to finish an outfit. A long double-breasted coat is a perfect thing to throw over just about any look.
17. A tailored coat
This coat will stay relevant for years to come.
18. A leather blazer
A tailored leather blazer is a key piece I rely on to pull together so many looks.
This post was originally published on Who What Wear US and has since been update.
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