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Autumn brings with it a ‘taking care of business’ mentality. The falling leaves and crisp air of September make us think of our ‘back to school’ academic year – and of course the twilight of summer means the end of long distance travel and the reluctant packing of our bikinis and sarongs.
For those of us not lucky enough to pursue a digital nomad existence and an endless summer, going back to offices means there’s one thing on our wish list: refreshed work clothes. If you thought the pandemic was going to mean the need for formal outfits was gone, think again. According to the Office for National Statistics, the percentage of people who work exclusively from home has fallen from 22 percent to 14 percent.
Although summer is still (almost) upon us, we can still look forward to cable knits, cozy cashmere and sumptuous fall-appropriate textures like corduroys and luxurious velvets. Our favorite influencers and street style icons offer plenty of inspiration in the department that combines style and functionality.
Style icon Giovanna Battaglia wears an olive knit and Fendi skirt outside MaxMara during Milan Fashion Week 2017. A statement midi skirt is anything but hideous and essential for a modestly sloped workplace. The shorter the days, the longer the fall.
Crisp straight leg jeans (without rips of course) can work in more casual office environments. Pair it with ballet flats and structured outerwear for a sharp, meeting-ready look.
The key to reducing the formality of a skirt suit is in the footwear. Pair it with whimsical girly Mary Janes and choose surprising color palettes such as pastels or cream. Jackie-O would be proud.
A cozy coordination, paired with hardware in the form of jewelry, is feminine, but has an ultra-sophisticated edge. The dress is worn with sneakers or flats in the summer and dressed up with heeled boots for the winter.
Made famous by Coco Chanel, the tweed jacket is a perennial classic. Pairing a classic tweed with a striped blouse and coordinating flats takes it from prim and proper to cool-girl in an instant, and of course it’s still smart enough for work.
Update your tailoring with refreshing patterns; styled with a white shirt and luxe accessories such as tonal coordinating shoes will ensure the outfit is workplace appropriate without compromising on personal style.
Who says jumpers are too dull for work? A brown oversized turtleneck matched with tonal separates creates a streamlined look. Make sure your knits are bubble free with a razor.
The heeled mule
A trendy favorite among Y2K lovers and Gen Z dressers alike, the open-toe mule is both class and sass packed into a single shoe silhouette.
As far as fashion girls go, bigger is better when it comes to blazers. When wearing it to the office, wide-leg trousers are comfortable yet smart, and a thin knit or shirt underneath always works well. If your industry is less formal, team with high-tops or retro-walks to leave a sharp but relaxed impression.
Is there anything in our wardrobes as classic and versatile as a white shirt? Its ability to transform even the most casual pants (e.g Emily Josephs Adidas joggers) for an ideal fit for the office is amazing. When wearing with casual, step up the style game in dressy shoes or courts.
Wearing a silky blouse with sleeves is probably an easy way to ensure a polished look. Wear it with matching tonal, ladylike separates or dress it down with relaxed trousers.
The loafer
Loafers are a staple of footwear that goes back to work. The silhouette is practical but punk in equal measure, and it comes in a variety of styles and colors. Our favorite? Patented burgundy and classic black palettes.
The West
Tired of boring tailoring? A nice waistcoat is the key to a luxurious workwear wardrobe. Wear it as is or layer it over a crisp white shirt for maximum effect.
The cardigan
Check out Miu Miu’s ever-popular line of coveted cardigans and add one to your cozy yet stylish office archive.
Pinstriped shirt
What are you asking? Oh, it’s boyfriend material. In fact, it is much more. The humble pinstripe shirt is an ideal blend of boyish charm and timeless allure, perfect for pairing with a slim suit.
Denim Maxi
Denim has officially entered the boardroom. Longline skirts made from dark wash denim are the ultimate must-haves for those who love a touch of modest Noughties appeal.
© Christian Vierig
© Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin
© Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin
© Edward Berthelot
© Raimonda Kulikauskiene
© Edward Berthelot
© Edward Berthelot
© Edward Berthelot
© Edward Berthelot
© Edward Berthelot
