Dressing for work is a difficult thing to master. On the one hand, you want to stay true to your personal style, but sometimes you have to forgo fashion to maintain an air of professionalism. For example, thigh-high boots and vinyl trousers are probably best reserved for off-duty hours.
It's a tricky balance to strike, but it's certainly not impossible. In fact, after a lengthy scrolling session on Instagram, I've gathered plenty of workwear inspiration–six outfits in particular stood out as being polished but on-point style-wise. Of course, dress codes differ from one office to the next, but these formulas can be easily tweaked to fit the bill. Simply add a collared shirt under your knitwear, or switch boots for loafers if your workplace has a strict footwear policy.
Planning to step up your office outfits in 2024? Make a lasting impression in these easy-to-replicate looks, courtesy of Instagram's smartest dressers.
1. Bright Knit + Leather Skirt + Oversized Tote
Style Notes: This look is a masterclass in incorporating trends in a professional way. The bright red jumper and leather skirt are current, but also have a classic feel that's appropriate for the office.
Shop the look:
Everytime I open Instagram lately, red is all I see.
No one will guess this is from the high street.
Plenty of room for all your essentials and more.
This pair is firmly on my fantasy wish list.
2. Structured Blazer + Wide Jeans + Kitten Heels
Style Notes: The way we see it, if the rest of your outfit is smart (e.g. a blazer and slingbacks), you can get away with wearing jeans to work. If your office dress code says otherwise, simply swap the denim for a pair of wide-leg trousers.
Shop the look:
Once again, H&M delivers on the blazer front.
The perfect everyday blue wash.
The micro buckle is a nice touch.
3. Belted Coat + Turtleneck + Simple Heels
Style Notes: Exaggerated belts are a major accessories trend this season—and a great way to give some shape to your bulky winter coat. Wear a skirt or dress with tights underneath, and a turtleneck knit peeking out.
Shop the look:
This will keep you super snug on your commute.
An essential layer on those colder mornings.
Make the belt the focal point of your outfit with this statement waist cincher.
This could be styled so many different ways.
4. White Shirt + Tailoring + Pointed-Toe Boots
Style Notes: Now this is how to do corporate chic. The tailoring in itself is divine, but the crisp white shirt creates a stylish contrast that takes the look to the next level.
Shop the look:
I'm into how voluminous this shirt is.
Chic, chic, chic!
You could also style these separately, of course.
Marks and Spencer's boot selection has been seriously on-point lately.
5. Knitted Dress + Colour-Pop Heels
Style Notes: Not only is a knitted dress a quick route to looking polished, but it's also unbeatably comfortable. Add a bright heel for a splash of colour and you're set to be the talk of the office.
Shop the look:
Made from a cashmere blend, this will feel like you're wearing a blanket.
Throw this on at the weekend, too.
True beauty.
6. Cardigan + Pinstripe Trousers + Loafers
Style Notes: Beige looks good in all settings, the workplace included. Add a pair of practical loafers to Lena's cardigan-and-trousers combo to give it a more formal feel.
Shop the look:
I can almost feel the softness from here.
Year-round trousers.
A timeless loafer is a work wardrobe mainstay.
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