Four “Back to the Office” Work Wardrobe Essentials

If you find yourself preparing to head back to the office soon, or maybe you are already in the thick of it, read on for four “back to the office” essentials. These four pieces will be staples in your work wardrobe, whether you are dusting them off from the back of your closet, or restocking after a year of working in your sweatpants.

While these are not the only pieces needed to build your work wardrobe, they are items that every woman working in the “business attire” world should have!

Classic Black Blazer: This one is a no-brainer. Year round, my black blazers are always on rotation. They instantly up the professionalism and make you look more polished and put together. I personally like the more oversized boyfriend style right now- since my office is not “formal” business attire. I do recommend having a more traditional cut blazer if you work in a more formal setting. If your workplace is a bit more casual, then you can mix things up and try out different cuts and styles. However, not all black blazers are created equal. Take it from someone who has been buying black blazers for over 10 years – do not settle for a blazer that is uncomfortable or ill fitting. If the seams don’t lay right, the hem is not properly stitched, or if the lapel is not structured and crisp – move right along! Sometimes, this will mean spending a bit more money on a good quality blazer that will look great and last. But I have also found SO MANY good blazer options at great prices at H&M, Gap, LOFT, etc. You just need to keep an eye out and pay attention to these details prior to spending your hard earned cash.

Light Colored Neutral Blazer: For many of the same reasons as above, a blazer in a light neutral color is also part of my work wardrobe must haves. Particularly in the spring and summer, a light colored alternative to the classic black blazer is great because it allows for versatility in your wardrobe. You can dress up some of your spring and summer pieces to make them appropriate for the office. The lighter colored blazer is also more comfortable in the heat of the warmer months. I love them in linen, or a linen blend that doesn’t wrinkle as easily! The best part is that you can still pair them with your black trousers and other black and navy pieces in order to get year round wear out of those!

Simple and Work Appropriate Dresses: Wearing dresses to work is great because it’s generally less work and effort! Only one piece to style and no need to dig through your closet searching for multiple items that work together. I really like the collared button up dress for the office, and this one is in a great length and color. Bold, yet conservative. When I am wearing dresses with a longer hemline or with additional volume at the bottom, I do typically pair it with a heel. As far as keeping the look professional, I do think the heel is necessary. If I were to wear this on the weekend, I might pair it with some white sneakers to make it more casual and fun. But, for the office, a sneaker is not usually appropriate and a pointed flat may be a bit matronly. Just something to keep in mind! You all know that I am a “comfort over everything” kind of girl, but I have to keep it real when I say… there is a time and a place where the heels are just going to look better! And this is it. 🙂

Large Structured Bag: My bags are probably the most loved items of my work wardrobe! I am a firm believer that your purse is an extension of your outfit – and that applies to work wear as well. You will not catch me wearing a school backpack to work – I could never! I know it’s a commuter thing but I just can’t. I will always 100% opt for a handbag, and it will always match my outfit- black and brown/cream- all you will ever need! I do switch them out depending on the outfit. I like the large structured bags with a top handle and longer crossbody strap because they allow for more flexibility in how they can be carried. I also look for bags that hold their shape when  empty. My work bags for the most part can stand on their own. I feel like this structure allows for better organization. I hate having to dig through the bottom pit of a purse to find my keys!

In the end, building your work wardrobe takes time and patience. But your work clothes should make you feel good – happy and confident. With these four essential pieces, you will be well on your way to building a professional wardrobe that will stand the test of time. 

Let me know what other essentials you would add to this list!

Until next time, 

Jannette

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