For Work Outfits
10 Office-Approved Outfit Formulas Inspired by Fashion Week
When we’re getting ready for work in the morning, our minds are usually racing with thoughts about upcoming deadlines, meetings, and projects. And in the meantime, we’re tasked with picking out the right ensemble to get the job done and to get it done with confidence. No matter how much you love fashion or how awesome your wardrobe is, there are always going to be days, and even weeklong stretches, when you just stand in front of your closet with a blank look on your face wondering what you should wear.
Fortunately, this is not going to be one of those weeks since the internet has just been graced with a fresh batch of work outfit ideas, thanks to fashion week. And there’s no better place to look for style inspiration than on the streets of London, Milan, New York, and Paris in between shows. When we asked Who What Editor associate editor Kristen Nichols to weigh in on the best trends that work in an office setting, she noted “seeing lots of strong suiting, unexpected bold hues, vintage-inspired denim, and modern takes on the kitten heel (this season’s It shoe),” which we can definitely get behind.
With this in mind, we rounded up our top 10 favorite office-approved looks to take note from this season. Rest assured, each outfit formula hits the style trifecta: Aside from being physically comfortable, you’ll be taken seriously professionally and feel confident. To make your mornings a little easier (and your office a lot more stylish), scroll through the endless work outfit ideas below.
Outfit Formula #1:
Whether you’re running to meetings all over town or sitting at a desk all day, comfort is key to a good workday. And what’s more comfortable than a pair of relaxed jeans? To make them work-appropriate and style-savvy, wear a printed blouse and on-trend heels, and then accessorize with some understated jewelry to finish things off.
Outfit Formula #2:
So you only got to wear that pretty flowy dress once this summer? Update it for fall by layering it over a pair of pants. We love the pair of ripped, raw-hem black jeans against the vivid green hue photographed above.
Outfit Formula #3:
Eye-catching and unique basics sound like an oxymoron, but they do exist. Case in point above. This oversize black blazer complements the half-zip turtleneck perfectly and does a nice job transitioning the cropped white jeans from summer to fall (yes, you can—and should—wear white after Labor Day). Introduce a pop of color in your shoes or handbag to add a touch of fun and personality to the look.
Outfit Formula #4:
Tall boots with a long dress hanging over them is always a good idea. If you don’t need to pack a handbag full of essentials, take style notes from the proportion play of the mini top-handle bag above.
Outfit Formula #5:
Okay, this outfit looks comfortable enough to live in and also happens to be hip and polished for an office. The warm camel tones of the sweater keep the outfit grounded, while the vivid yellow pants will fill any boardroom with optimism (maybe). Not to mention that the wide-leg silhouette is insanely flattering, and you can never go wrong with the half-tuck. To refine the aesthetic, just add a pair of sculptural earrings.
Outfit Formula #6:
Business and pleasure join forces in this quirky purple pantsuit. Incorporating playful pastels and different shades of a cheerful color will keep things light, while a clean, classic cut and style will ensure you look appropriate for the setting. Opt for a pantsuit that gives the traditional piece a modern twist.
Outfit Formula #7:
This is probably the best fall outfit formula around. It’s easy, reliable, and flattering, but don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it. We love how this architectural skirt looks with the organically shaped sweater and playful polka-dot heels. And it doesn’t look overly whimsical since everything remains within a neutral black-and-white color scheme.
Outfit Formula #8:
This work outfit idea is the direct opposite of the previous one. Instead of getting creative with interesting shapes and fabric in quiet, solid tones, this outfit inspires us to go for bold colors in classic silhouettes and styles. Jeans, sock boots, a belt, and a sweater. That’s what fall outfit dreams are made of.
Outfit Formula #9:
Aside from denim, khaki is one of the most versatile, easy-to-wear materials both aesthetically and comfort wise. And as much as we love a jean skirt, there’s something about these camel-hued utility pieces that make them look slightly more refined. Since it is on the casual side, consider pairing khaki with a black top and heels in a luxe material. These velvet pumps with gold details get the job done perfectly.
Outfit Formula #10:
Of course, this ensemble might not fly in every industry, but if it does, or you ever have a one-time Casual Friday, then it’ll soon be your go-to look. It’s the perfect mix of on-trend style and classic business casual garb. Plus, it’s flattering and easy to replicate. Simply tuck a simple white shirt into a pair of high-rise wide-leg jeans with a chic chain belt, and let the elongating denim do all the work.
Outfit Formula #more:
If you’re going to shop for new items to wear in the workplace this season, let it be a pair of fashion-forward trousers inspired by joggers. These side-stripe slacks are reminiscent of track pants, and yet the grown-up checkered trench coat and pearl-embellished pumps tone them down perfectly.