5 Classic Work Outfits That Make Dressing for the Office Totally Effortless

One of fashion's biggest conundrums is the topic of workwear, and it's no wonder why. With the exception of the power suits in the likes of Working Girl and Babyboom circa 1980, workwear doesn't usually inspire creative styling. Once upon a time dressing for the office meant lacklustre outfits geared towards practicality and often in the shadow of menswear, but we've come a long way from repetitive two-pieces that resembled school uniforms. There's been an evolution of sorts—retailers have heard the cries of women far and wide and are producing elevated clothing to bridge the gap between formal and informal.

We're becoming imaginative with our pairings and inspiring each other to mix things up, meanwhile, it seems many office dress codes are becoming more relaxed, enabling employees to broaden the criteria beyond tailored trousers and button-downs. Your office may still call for an element of formality that requires shirting or modest styling, but there's plenty of room beyond that to play with fashion; whether that's incorporating smart denim, tailoring you can integrate into off-duty looks, weaving in natural fabrics (particularly as we transition into spring) or experimenting with directional and bold earrings.

So, if you're looking for officewear inspiration, look no further. Keep scrolling for five fresh looks you can wear to work and beyond, courtesy of some of our favourite fashion content creators.

1. T-Shirt + Full Skirt + Mules

Style Notes: Slowly make the transition to spring by introducing natural fabrics into your wardrobe. Try a tonal ensemble, as demonstrated by Abi Marvel.

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2. Slouchy Blazer + White Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Make like Taffy Msipa and layer your outfits whilst the forecast is still confused. The caramel-toned blazer and bright denim speak to the upcoming spring season, whilst incorporating knitwear will ensure you remain warm.

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3. Blue Button-Down + Black Maxi Skirt + Open-Toe Mules

Style Notes: Tastemaker Monikh Dale knows a thing or two about refined dressing, and although she doesn't wear her outfits to the office, they boast smartened elements that will translate well to an office environment. Pair your button-downs with a column maxi skirt (of which there are plenty this season) instead of trousers and prop up the look with open-toe mules.

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4. Grey Suit + Mesh Shoes

Style Notes: There's no more classic outfit pairing than the matching suit look. To make it more contemporary, opt for cool tones in a slouchy fit with a more generous style. Pair this timeless look with this season's celebrated mesh flats, as long as your office dress code allows for open footwear. If not, style it with pointed boots.

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5. Silk Shirt + Grey Skort + Slingback Heels

Style Notes: Sylvie Mus expertly demonstrates how to mix textures here. Grey melange was once uninspiring, but now it's a fresh tone to disrupt the usual black and white when it comes to office dressing.

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