From Pinstripes to Power Suits, 9 Businesscore Basics Taking Over My Wardrobe

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(Image credit: Fendi/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Things are getting stylish over at corporate. The F/W 23 runways declared that it's all about dressing for business this season. From the sculpted skirt suits at Versace to the shirt-and-tie combos at Dior, the polished power suits at Saint Laurent, and the striking pinstripes at Alexander McQueen, not to mention the ever-present button-downs spotted literally everywhere from Prada to Proenza Schouler, there’s never been a better time to lean into the corporate-chic aesthetic whether you work in an office or not.

After examining the runways and scouring all our favorite retailers, I’m sharing nine businesscore basics that are the perfect pieces for leaning into the trend this season. You’ll unquestionably feel like the chicest, most admired, and most powerful person in the boardroom and beyond.

Sharp Blazers

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(Image credit: Courtesy of Versace)

From cinched waists to needle-sharp shoulders, sleek and tailored blazers of all varieties will be the number one staple you'll need this season to nail the business-core trend.

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Button-Downs

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(Image credit: Prada/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Crisp button-downs were spotted in practically every designer collection for fall 2023. A white button-down is a must, but we're also seeing shirts in office-ready hues, such as blue and beige, and striped iterations.

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Pinstripes

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(Image credit: Saint Laurent/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

If there's one way to lean into the corporate-chic trend, it's with the simple addition of pinstripes. Opt for pinstripe tailored trousers, a blazer, a maxi skirt, or a coat.

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Pencil Skirts

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(Image credit: Dries Van Noten/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Pencil skirts are back this season—bringing an instant dose of office-ready polish to our looks. This season, we're seeing slightly looser silhouettes that skim the body but aren't skin tight.

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Overcoats

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(Image credit: Victoria Beckham/Launcmetrics Spotlight)

They might not set your pulse racing, but classic long wool coats are having a major moment this season—especially in corporate colors black, gray, and navy. It's one of those pieces you'll never regret investing in.

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Layerable Knits

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(Image credit: Miu Miu/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

While we love our chunky oversize sweaters, the business-core look focuses on layerable knits that are ideal for the office. Think crew-neck cardigans, fitted turtlenecks, and polo sweaters that can be layered under coats and blazers and over tanks and tops.

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Gray Trousers

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(Image credit: Prada/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Tailored trousers are year-round fashion staples, but we're seeing corporate gray hues in particular take the spotlight this season. From fresh tapered styles to effortless wide-leg silhouettes, gray trousers will go with literally everything in your closet.

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Work Totes

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(Image credit: Victoria Beckham/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Polished, work-ready handbags will elevate an outfit in an instant. Opt for a more structured tote in luxe fabrics that say you mean business.

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Vests

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(Image credit: Fendi/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Chic waistcoats are sticking around for fall 2023 and embody the business-core look perfectly. There are plenty of sleek and sophisticated iterations for every budget and taste this season.

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Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.