Ladies, Let’s Get to Business!
Design: Kristin Graham
Remote work is rapidly becoming a concept of the past, and soon our fond years of flexible scheduling and working in pajamas will be far behind us. The world is understandably apprehensive about resuming office work—after all, this post-pandemic limbo that we’ve grown so accustomed to has given us ample time to reflect on our character, relationships, values, and personal style.
But what if I told you that there are clever ways to savor our folksy reality in the current workspace?
The answer lies in business casual style, where everyday pieces are invited into the office to challenge the confines of traditional office wear, especially in women’s fashion. The options for women’s professional wear have historically played on the theme of difference: channeling masculinity from the 1920s to ‘70s through assertive suits and trousers; the rise of blouses, vests and pencil skirts from the ‘80s to 2000s, the first era of business casual wear.
In retrospect, women have always been the daring spectacle of business fashion, even in the modern age.
So, what does business casual look like by today’s standards? Below are our picks for the trendiest office-appropriate pieces, along with some tips on how to style them.
Knitted Tops
A. Roege Hove
Emma Drape Top
Brands like A. Roege Hove and Alexander McQueen design knitwear that can be worn all year round, trading out the likes of thick sweaters for form-fitting halter tops and off-shoulder blouses. Go crazy with the color and be attentive to the weaves of certain knits. Pair with a muted suit set so the knits stand out in color and texture.
Power Blazers
Recto
Beige Corte Blazer
Blazers are not a new concept for the office by any means. In fact, blazers are only getting bigger in light of contemporary casual fashion—and literally in size! Big blazers are the best items for that oversized look. It’s lazy chic at its finest but keeps its professional origins. Structured blazers look the best with long and slouchy trousers, juxtaposing them with tighter tops and shoewear. Yes, it can be cropped too!
Thin Cardigans
CORDERA
Suri cardigan in beige
Cardigans were once the outerwear of choice for women navigating the first era of business casual uniforms, and its resurgence in everyday fashion is a testament to its grip on popular trends, mirroring the life of blazers. Treat cardigans like blouses. Button them to your desired length and pair them with loose pants for a silhouette that fits on top and flares at the bottom.
Jumpsuits
Ever New
Wide leg jumpsuit
For those days when you just don’t know what to wear to work, consider sporting a jumpsuit. It’s convenient and comfortable but always looks put-together. Vest-style jumpsuits are the best way to avoid looking too steampunk, especially in combination with large belts that contour the waist.
Loose Trousers
Studio Nicholson
Acapulco Wool Pants
All trousers are embraced in the office! Play around with the way the pants sit on your legs, as every silhouette conveys a different vibe for the entire outfit. Low-waist, loose trousers paired with high-heel loafers and flat mules make for some of the most popular ensembles today.
Flared Leggings
Blumarine
Black flared trousers
While leggings are more known to be worn after work instead of during, several designers are breathing a new vision of formality and novelty into the stretchy garment. Most flared leggings will drape at the ankles and drag on the floor, so keep the tall look in mind when styling. Long shirts will complement the leggings well, detaching it from its staple casual style.
Novelty Loafers
Max Mara
Crocodile-embossed leather loafers with heels
Preppy, posh, and tidy, loafers are a close second to the high heels of the office. Why would anyone want to wear heels when the more comfortable option sits right before them? Between the penny-style to loafers with platform soles, this shoe remains one of the most versatile pieces to add to your wardrobe. Its resurgence in contemporary fashion shows how well they pair with everyday clothes and for business—the bounds of style are endless with this piece.
Ballet Flats
Maison Margiela
Tabi ballerina flats
Another popular office-appropriate shoe, flats were synonymous with femininity and girlhood. Now they are back, styled more like sandals than something more clunky. Pair flats with pants that cover the ankles, accentuating the legs while keeping the feet dainty and minimal.
Knee-High Boots
The Row
Bette leather boots in black
Boots are a fabulous way to spice up a boring outfit, and they keep your legs warm! High heel, monochrome black boots tend to be the most popular, but try to play around with colorful boots and extraordinary soles instead. A tall and sturdy pair of boots will match with any mid-length skirt while also extending the body.
Colorful Scarves
Acne Studios
Mohair checked scarf
Office spaces can get quite frigid throughout the day, so invite warmth back in through styling scarves. Acne Studios is notorious for its wool-mohair blend scarves that come in various checkered colors. Swallowing the shoulders and adorned with patterned tassels, it’s gaudy in the best ways. Incorporate bright and textured scarves to enliven more minimal office looks.
