For better or for worse, gone are the widespread WFH days. Plenty of people are back together in the office, where the whole business-up-top, pajamas-on-the-bottom situation simply won't do. As such, there's no time like the present to re-up your work wardrobe.
But today's modern business attire isn't what it once was. In place of staunch suits, there are plenty of stylish finds that are confidence-building and comfortable enough for a full day at the office. Think: jumpsuits, wide-leg work pants, and knit jackets paired with elevated denim. In many cases, even a nice pair of sneakers is just as acceptable as a more sophisticated loafer or comfortable heels.
Casual work outfits are here to stay. To help spark some ideas to take you through the rest of 2023, we've curated sensible clothing items well-suited for relaxed yet professional office environments.
Business casual can feel a bit ambiguous, but generally it means something that looks sharp but is a little more relaxed than traditional office attire. For that, we love this blazer. It has all the hallmarks of a formal jacket—gold buttons, a collared neck, and flap front pockets—but can easily be paired with jeans.
Striped tees are timeless wardrobe items that pair with your favorite blazer and a pair of tailored jeans for French-inspired finesse. This quality linen style is just about perfect.
Denim? In the office? In more casual modern business settings, the everyday go-to is totally acceptable—especially in such a sophisticated silhouette. We love the season-less cream color of these pants, but they come in other washes, too.
A cross between a loafer and a mule, these shoes by Sam Edelman are everyday go-tos. The black is a classic you can't go wrong with, but we love the white for spring and summer, too.
K. Carroll is a women-owned and -operated small business with accessible and practical goods. It's no wonder that its simple yet spacious Taylor tote made it to Oprah's Favorite Things list in 2021. It pairs with just about everything, and at this price, you don't have to worry about being too precious.
Every closet should have a basic black or white bodysuit to pair with work pants, like wide-leg trousers or elevated denim, and midi skirts. Why? It provides a tailored look without having to fuss with the perfect tuck and layers expertly with blazers, sweaters, or a moto jacket.
Belts are crucial for styling, and Aritzia makes some of our favorite everyday styles. Take this essential belt, which comes in black, brown, and tan with gold or silver hardware.
These bestselling pants—available in 10 colors up to size 16—are both comfortable and flattering. Thanks to a high-rise design, you can rock them for hours at a time without feeling restrictive. Not to mention, they're a closet staple you'll reach for over and over. Pair them with a skin-hugging bodysuit, block heel shoes, and your favorite sweater wrapped around the shoulders.
Investing in quality pieces you'll wear every day is always a smart move. These Mejuri hoops are made with 14kt solid recycled gold, meaning they won't tarnish or irritate sensitive skin. Plus, you'll end up wearing them just about everywhere.
For offices that skew more formal, here's a crisp button-down Oprah raves about. The brand's acronym—AYR—stands for "All Year Round," because you can comfortably wear its duds during any season. The fit is oversize but has a touch of stretch. Plus, the front pocket is roomy enough to utilize. Need we mention how timeless the stripes are?
For something more feminine and flirty, consider this high-waisted, swingy retro-inspired skirt. With a silk tank, the blue-and-white floral pattern is perfect for the spring and summer months, but it can also serve as a transitional piece with the right sweater.
Thanks to a cushy platform, a block heel, and ankle support, these Larroude beauties are just as comfy as they are chic. These strappy sandals are the perfect finishing touch to a midi-length hem or tailored trousers.
For a day at the office, styling is everything. These pretty everyday pearls were featured on Oprah's Favorite Things list 2021. They pair perfectly with everything from wide-leg pants to a floral midi dress.
This pretty floral midi dress is an ideal length and silhouette for most offices. Pair it with sleek white sneakers or ankle booties for an easy win to start the workday.
If you're going to wear sneakers to the office, make sure you choose a pair with clean lines —like these timeless Superga styles that top our list of best white sneakers. The minimal design complements both casual dresses and pants alike.