There’s something about not knowing what day of the week it is that gets us in the mood to experiment with clothing. Maybe it’s because we finally find the time to explore the depths of our wardrobes, unearthing old favourites. Or because we take a laid-back approach to dressing that births brilliant thrown-together outfits (who knew there we so many ways to style a T-shirt?). Or maybe we just have the confidence to try new looks when we’re holidaying in a town where no one knows our name.
We may be back in the office, but we’re determined to hang onto this holiday feeling. Simple wardrobe staples, expertly selected accessories and unexpected outfit combinations are helping us slide back into the work year refreshed and motivated. (It’s called strategic planning, hun.) Here are six easy work wardrobe upgrades to try this year.
The classics with cool, modern accessories
The classics with cool, modern accessories
Use accessories to add edge to your favourite shirt and slacks combo (we can’t go past this puff-sleeve blouse and the perfect drape of those pants). Go bold with sculptural jewellery that stands out from the crowd and a geometric bag that serves “art mom” realness.
Resist the temptation to buy all-black-everything and opt for stylish shades of brown to inject some warmth to your work wardrobe.
The elevated tank
The elevated tank
An enduring symbol of cool girl style, tank tops are one of those casual staples that can easily be dressed up or down. For a more elevated feel, pick a sturdy fabric with a thick neckline like Kowtow’s knitted organic cotton singlet. Play with colour and pump up the glamour with bright accessories and a chunky gold chain.
The cut-out maxi
The cut-out maxi
It’s funny how a sneaky cut-out detail can transform the entire feel of a garment. We are loving this updated take on the maxi dress (arguably the most comfortable item in your wardrobe). Style it with a pared back leather bag and sneakers for a casual work look.
The layered vest
The layered vest
When you’ve got a meeting at 9 a.m. and Pilates at 11. Use a vest to elevate a clean activewear look for the office, or channel your favourite Scandinavian style girl by layering with an oversized button up. Finish with simple accessories like this vegan snakeskin bag and tortoiseshell sunglasses.
The fail-safe black dress
The fail-safe black dress
Instantly put together is the brief. For those days when we want to look cute but don’t have the mental capacity to put an outfit together, a black dress is our go to. With its billowing sleeves and cinched waist detail, the Collected Mini Dress is a flawless and flattering option. Wear it with bright accessories, gold hoops and a black loafer.
The non-boring button-up
The non-boring button-up
If you want to stop rotating the same black and white tees in the office this year, allow us to steer you in a more colourful direction. With so many bold options now available, not to mention the mood-boosting benefits of wearing colour, you'll be thanking us for the bright inspo. A pinstripe paired with neutral bottoms, refined silver and a classic tote bag, is a great way to ease yourself into dopamine dressing.
If you're ready to dive in head-first, we recommend this yellow number or this striking cobalt shirt.
Arnsdorf
Monarc Jewellery
Kowtow
Brie Leon
Esse Studios
Monarc Jewellery
Kowtow
Sentient
UNIKSPACE
Esse Studios
Kowtow
Monarc Jewellery
Esse Studios
Monarc Jewellery
Esse Studios
Esse Studios
Arnsdorf
Esse Studios
Monarc Jewellery
Kowtow
Monarc Jewellery
RAIE.
Arnsdorf
Rhiannon Smith
Released From Love
UNIKSPACE
Monarc Jewellery
Released From Love
Esse Studios
Released From Love
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