Even though it is 2023, there are still several limitations on what is and isn’t acceptable office wear. However, just because there are limitations doesn’t mean there aren’t options; the contrary is true.
If you are looking to upgrade your office wear wardrobe or are heading into an office job and don’t know what to wear, this post will help steer you in the right direction.
Essentials
The first thing you need is a selection of essentials that you will use to build your outfits around. Whether it be a white blouse, a pair of Lacoste shoes, or a black blazer, having these essentials will ensure you always have an outfit.
White T-shirts & Button-Downs
A white t-shirt, button-down, or blouse is one of the best items to layer with. They are ultra-stylish and chic and can be worn with absolutely anything. They are also perfect for all seasons, especially if you buy them in cotton.
Blazer
No matter your work, a blazer is always a great addition to your wardrobe as you can use to instantly create a semi-formal or formal look. You can pair it with pants or a skirt and is ideal for when you have meetings or formal company events.
Shoes
When it comes to shoes, it will depend on where you work. If your company has a more relaxed dress code, sneakers are almost always fine; however, if you are required to be more formal, then you will have to look into getting a pair of heels.
Pantsuit
A pantsuit is another thing you will only need if your workplace requires it. Pantsuits are one of the most popular formal office outfits for women for a reason; they are simple, super-stylish, and can be dressed up or dressed down.
Coat
When Winter rolls around, you will need a coat. While a coat doesn’t necessarily have to be as formal as the rest of your outfit, you can never go wrong with something that is simple, comfortable, and warm.
Skirts & Dresses
Finally, you should have a small collection of skirts and dresses for the warmer months of the year. Your office dress code will determine what styles you can choose; if you have a formal dress code, pencil skirts in neutral colours are usually the best choice.
Work Environment
When dressing for work, the first thing you need to consider is the type of environment you work in. this is a two-fold question as you may work somewhere that is exceptionally formal, such as a bank or law firm.
However, the type of people or clients that come to your office is also an important consideration. For example, in a law firm, you would be expected to dress more formally, but in a marketing agency, the environment may be more relaxed, but if you are meeting with high-end clients, you can’t be super casual.
Meetings
Speaking of meetings, when you are meeting with current or potential clients, more often than not, it is better to dress more formally than usual. This is simply due to the fact that just because your office space is casual, it doesn’t mean your clients will be.
While there is no need to wear a freshly laundered and pressed pantsuit, being more thoughtful with what you wear will be noticed and appreciated.
Formal & Casual
As mentioned already, in the workplace, the concept of formal and casual is fairly similar to regular dress codes, but with slight differences. While formal attire is standard, casual attire can vary greatly.
To be on the safe side, it is best to think about casual as what you would wear to dinner with family or friends, as opposed to what you would wear on a lazy Sunday at home.
Work Events
Regarding work events, no matter where you go, if higher-ups in your company and potential clients are attending, it is always best to go with a more formal look. However, this will also depend on the type of event.
If it is a dinner or cocktail party, then a pantsuit or cocktail dress would most likely be your best option, but if it is something being held at your office, weaning your regular formal outfit will be more than enough.
Colours & Patterns
While those who work in a more creative space will have more options, if you work somewhere like a law or accountancy firm, you have fewer options when it comes to patterns and colours.
It is always best to stick with neutral colours and patterns, such as blacks and greys, and stripes. While this can be slightly boring, it is the best and easiest way to tick the “formal” box.
Remember What You Represent
Finally, when choosing what to wear to work, it is always important to remember who and what you are representing. Your outfit will tell people a lot about who you are and what you are about, and therefore it is important that it leaves a positive mark. While there is no “right” way to do this, it does mean you should put in extra thought when choosing your outfits.
