Best Office Wear Outfits To Look Stylish And Professional
It is necessary to look and feel confident at your workplace, and the right choice of outfit will ensure just that. Working professionals don't have time—or often inclination—to think about what they'll wear daily. There was a time when saying you had "nothing to wear" was a bit of an exaggeration, but in recent years it has become more of a common complaint. Your wardrobe probably wasn't completely bare; you probably just didn't feel like getting dressed. We don't pass judgment, so please don't feel bad.
Working women probably have several work staples they put on every single day. However, there are often basics like tailored trousers, white shirts, and colored blouses with accents like cardigans and neck scarves that allow them to add variety while keeping it simple.
What are the experts saying?
According to a poll conducted in February by LinkedIn, 47% of women and non-binary people who work full-time in the United States are looking forward to dressing professionally again, and 37% of those people are now in the process of purchasing a new work wardrobe.
Here's the good news: in 2022, you won't have to choose between comfort and style when it comes to what you wear to the job.
Continue reading on for some great advice on how to dress for work, whether you're a fresher to the workforce or just want to step up your game.
1. Try different colors
Color is what makes the world go round. In fashion, it is what makes things interesting and unique. However, when you go to work, you'll notice that hardly anyone wears bright colors. People don't want to stand out in the office environment. However, be naturally confident, you can wear color without being too self-conscious about it. Darker hues, including navy blue and grey, might help you achieve a more subdued appearance.
The colors you wear might also be necessary, depending on your profession. For example, if you work in a field where you must wear a uniform, try selecting a color that you feel most confident in. Nail polish, rings, and other accessories can be used to add color to an otherwise neutral outfit. If you have tattoos, consider wearing clothing that can cover them up at work. And, finally, if you're trying to impress clients or colleagues, you may want to choose a suit or other pieces you wouldn't wear every day.
2. Pair black with white
Whether you're wearing a pantsuit or a dress, you can make an outfit more attractive with this classic color combination. It works exceptionally well with patterns because black and white are the base colors of most designs. Mixing and matching black and white together allows you to create outfits that look even more stylish than they would have if they were just one color. Black and white are also great colors to use in the fall because they go with everything.
Another wardrobe office staple is black jeans, a white t-shirt, and a black blazer. Black and white clothing can be worn year-round, but it's beneficial during the fall. This can be done with several pieces such as tights, shirts, and blouses. You can also do it with accessories like belts, shoes, and bags. Using these two colors together will help you create a lot of different outfits while still keeping things simple. You can carry this look on a casual office day like on Fridays.
3. Invest in quality fabrics and well-made items
The timeless black blazer is always a safe bet. It is a wardrobe staple that will get you through any occasion. A black blazer will always look sleek and professional. However, the quality of the blazer will make a huge difference. Make sure you invest in a blazer of excellent quality. If you can, buy one that is made out of wool. This is a fabric that is appropriate for any season, and it is also incredibly versatile. From formal to casual, a black blazer can be worn to fit any setting! Black is also a slimming color, making you look more put together and professional.
As black is a neutral shade, you can easily pair a black blazer with various colors and patterns. You can mix and match from a solid shirt to an Oxford pattern easily. Black is very versatile, and you can wear it year-round. Where possible, it's best to invest in a black blazer rather than a suit jacket.
4. Statement Pants
There's no rule that says office attire has to be uninteresting. Wear a tailored pair of pants with a quirky design to work to inject your individuality. You can decide if you want to dress this up with a jacket, trench coat, or cardigan over a tank top for a meeting of the whole staff or dress it down with great pair of shoes for a casual Friday.
5. Keep your basics in the office
If you have a few work staples, such as a black pencil skirt and a white blouse, keep them in your desk or locker at work. This will allow you to change your look without having to leave the building and spend any money. You can easily make a new outfit out of these items by simply adding a new piece of jewelry or scarf. This also allows you to change your outfit whenever you feel like it without worrying too much about impressing your boss.
6. Show some skin
If you'd rather not expose too much flesh, don't worry. However, if you're feeling insecure about your outfit and want to feel more confident, adding a little skin can help. This doesn't necessarily mean you have to bear your midriff or anything. You can simply add a cardigan or blazer that shows off your shoulders. This little touch will help make you feel more confident in your outfit and will also make you look more professional.
7. The little black dress
A black dress is a staple for a reason and is a perfect addition to your office wear outfits. Black is a versatile color that may be worn as a dress or as a tunic with one of your favorite pairs of jeans or leggings. Black is a timeless hue that never goes out of style. The upkeep and sanitization are child's play as well. A little black dress is an excellent addition to any office wear wardrobe.
8. Mix and match your prints
If you like wearing patterns and prints, don't be afraid to mix and match them. However, ensure you match them correctly and don't get them too matchy-matchy. If you have three pieces of patterned clothing, you can create three completely different outfits by pairing them with other items. This also helps you avoid looking like you're wearing your pajamas to the office.
9. Jumpsuits
To be frank, many times, we don't have time to ponder (much less plan your clothes), and a fine jumpsuit is one of the greatest alternatives for those situations. You can make a bold fashion statement with minimal effort by just adding a belt or a pair of heels to this versatile garment.
10. Stylish pants, blouse, and flats
During Zoom meetings, we were welcomed dressed formally from the waist up while being casual on the bottom; this may be adapted for our return to the workplace. Back at the office? Ease into business casual with a blouse that makes a statement. It's that little something extra you've been wanting, and it rounds out an excellent getup for a night out on the town after work.
Wrapping up
If you're a regular person wondering, "What should I wear to the office in a post-pandemic world?" while staring blankly into an open closet, you're not alone. Do not feel isolated. Eventually, you want to ensure that you put your best foot forward when you go to work. You also want to ensure you are comfortable in your work clothes. Remember that you are an individual and must dress for your personality.
Consequently, if you feel confident and comfortable in your outfit, that is all that matters. Make sure you are not afraid to experiment and try something new when picking out your outfits. If you are not confident in your outfit, try to change something about it until you feel comfortable and like yourself again. Continue reading our blog on WomenWire.com for more information and updates on fashion, travel, beauty, entertainment, and more.