The One Mistake That's Ruining Your Work Outfits

Recently, I was chatting with Who What Wear's co-founder Hillary Kerr about getting dressed for work. As someone whose wardrobe made a not-so-smooth transition from college into full-time employment (truthfully, I'm still figuring it out), I was ripe to hear Kerr's expert advice on the matter. I wanted to know—what could I do to start dressing better for work right now?

Let me be clear: Office attire is by no means a one-size-fits-all standard. Where certain work environments call for strictly business-professional attire, there are others in which jeans and sneakers are the norm. No wonder, then, that "work-appropriate" can mean something completely different from one person to the next. That said, Kerr divulged the one mistake that she can't help but notice in the office. Not to worry—it couldn't be any easier to avoid.

"When someone shows up at work in something that's noticeably wrinkled, it just feels sloppy to me," she shared. "Between steamers and Downy Wrinkle Release Spray, there are easy options for ensuring your clothes don't look like you just grabbed them off the floor of your closet, even if you did." Sure, we've all been guilty of throwing on a wrinkly shirt at one point or another. It's a small mistake that unfortunately makes a big impact.

Pick up a steamer—add this $29 option at Target to your shopping cart, plus it comes in pink—and spend four minutes getting wrinkles out of your clothes before getting dressed. So simple. Now that you know the biggest mistake and how to avoid it, go on to see the creative work outfits that will inspire you.

Belted jackets and dusters are a simple way to look instantly more polished.

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Have some fun with your footwear. If you're keeping it classic up top, opt for a pair of bright shoes like these satin mules.

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This is easily one of our favorite summer work looks. It pairs an asymmetric midi skirt with strappy sandals and an oversize blazer.

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Never underestimate the power of a great shirtdress.

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Swap out trousers for a relaxed pencil skirt if a full suit feels a bit too stuffy.

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File under "how to dress up your jeans for work." Pretty heels, a structured handbag, and an everyday blazer.

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When jeans feel a bit too casual, dark-wash and black-denim pairs will elevate your outfit.

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Shirtdress + statement shoes = easy summer work uniform.

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A statement top can do wonders to an otherwise more casual outfit.

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White wide-leg jeans are a great alternative to trousers in the summer.

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