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Whether you’re just starting to head back to the office or have been making the commute for a while, you could probably use some outfit inspiration. American workplaces, in general, have moved away from staid, required suits toward a more relaxed dress code over the past two decades—a win for personal style. With casualization comes comfort, but it also means that sometimes the lines between appropriate and inappropriate are blurry. Do you still reach for a suit? Something more casual? Are sneakers okay if paired with a nice dress?
As someone who started a new job remotely during COVID, I felt daunted by my first days in the Vogue office. To be fair, it has a more “anything goes” dress code than most workplaces, but I’ve found that general advice still applies. You can’t go wrong with a tailored jacket or a good pair of trousers; boots and loafers are always appropriate; and a set makes the morning rush easier. One bonus of working at Vogue, though, is that I’m constantly surrounded by inspiration from my coworkers, yes, but also from old issues of the magazine.
Consider the skirt suit: one of the most classic office staples. A Bardia Zeinali photo from the October 2020 issue of a woman running in a suit is decidedly sleek, thanks to the above-the-knee skirt. Modern but still appropriate. If the ’70s is more your style, look to the louche uniform of trench coat, silk scarf, and loafers exemplified in Duane Michals’s image for the February 1976 issue. Below, see 11 sophisticated outfit ideas inspired by the pages of Vogue.
The New Uniform
A crisp oxford paired with wide-leg trousers is a quintessential office outfit, but tricky to get just right. Elevate this combo with a great pair of pumps and some personalized jewelry.
The ’70s Classics
Fall staples unite in this fail-safe combination. Channel Faye Dunaway in Network with wide-leg trousers, a trench coat, a silk scarf, and loafers. Keep it elegant by staying within the same color scheme. The best part? You can easily wear any piece of this outfit off-duty too.
The Printed Dress
Show a bit of personality with a fabulous printed dress, but keep it comfortable with a pair of dressy flats. Mismatched earrings continue the artsy theme.
The Commuter Look
If running for the train is an all-too-common scenario, you’ll need the right shoes. A low-heel boot is no substitute for a sneaker, but it gets the balance between comfort and style just right. A denim dress offers an interesting mix of textures and is chic to, well, boot.
The Tailored Trio
If you like to keep your office look sleek and to the point, you can’t go wrong with mixing classic shirting, straight-leg pants, and a sharp double-breasted blazer. This says “I’m here to get the job done.”
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The Casual Friday
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When you need to look put-together but have no time to do it, reach for a set. A printed silk pajama suit—emphasis on the “suit” part—is office-ready thanks to the button-up shirt with a sharp collar. Stash a pair of heels in your nylon backpack and hop on a Citi Bike in your white sneakers, and you’re ready for whatever the day has in store.
The Fail-Safe Set
See my aforementioned feelings on sets. They truly are the best ready-made outfits in your closet. In the fall and winter, matching knit tops and skirts or pants make for an easy and on-trend look. Throw them on and go.
The Not-So-Traditional Tweed
A tweed jacket is classic for a reason. It adds a bit of sophistication to any outfit, but designers have found ways recently to make it feel a little more youthful via braided trims, sequins, and grosgrain bows.
The Skirt Suit
The most classic office outfit gets a refresh thanks to a shorter hemline. Balance out your mini with an oversized jacket, a buttoned-up shirt, or cool flats.
The Pop-of-Color Handbag
Your office bag doesn’t have to be an afterthought. Bring it to the forefront of your outfit by choosing a shoulder bag or top-handle in a zingy shade of poppy. Brighten up your day and your cubicle.
The Monochromatic Moment
For a quietly dramatic ensemble, choose a full gray skirt; coordinating sweater; low, sculptural heels; and silver jewelry. It elegantly and quietly packs a punch.
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The Tech Update
As working from home on a part-time or full-time basis becomes increasingly common, technology is more crucial than ever to do our jobs. Why not look beautiful while using it as well?
