Let’s face it: the days of traditional office wear are long behind us. As workplaces themselves have become more collaborative, open and friendly since the turn of the century, the dynamic of dressing for work has changed too. Many women used to stick with greyscale skirt suits, white button down blouses and the occasional solid-hued dress in a conservative cut for the office. In the contemporary office the dress code is no longer so staunch, and creativity in workwear has bloomed in the decades since. Trends in workwear have become increasingly prevalent over time, and we’re here to chronicle some of the latest and greatest looks for the office.
Photo by @TiffanyDiana
Animal prints have been trending for the last year or so in casual wear, but they’re now having an office-appropriate makeover. Leopard print is leading the way, done in slinky, silky silhouettes that can be paired with more traditional pieces to create a look that is pulled-together and polished but fierce in the truest sense of the word. Also making an appearance this season are tiger and zebra prints. If you’re not quite feeling up for a safari, a number of animal-print inspired patterns are becoming popular as well, like the polka-dot leopard print hybrid on Colombian blogger Tiffany Diana’s asymmetric midi (by WhoWhatWear for Target). If it’s still too much VaVaVoom for your workplace, you can always tone it down with a black blazer.
Photo by @Blaireandbee
Bold, colorful suits have been on the market for decades now and have been readily embraced by many powerful women. However, the colorful suit of 2019 is revamped with even brighter colorways, imaginative details and hip tailoring details that make this staple feel fresh. Trouser ankles should be tapered and cropped or Flared with a capital F, buttons should be chunky and funky. All colors are good colors, but particularly popular for this trend are bright green, sunflower yellow, and fushia. We love this layered look for a colder climate, but to rock this trend in warmer weather choose a suit in a breathable material and layer with a sleeveless blouse or printed tee.
Photo by @Grasiemercedes
The words “jumpsuit” and “office” might not sound like they belong together, but the new generation of tailored, trendy jumpsuits available now may change your mind. Some rules to play by; a simpler silhouette is easier to pull off in a workplace, and while you don’t want to go too tight a cinched waist is an easy way to look polished. Choose a fun allover print like this H&M number worn by Grasie Mercedes (a Dominican-American actress and influencer), or tone down the action with a solid hue. Add slingbacks and some classic earrings to up the elegance, or do loafers and a low-bun for a casual office look.
Photo by Andy Torres @StyleScrapbook
Western boots aren’t just for ranch work anymore. This popular style of shoe has taken the fashion industry by storm, and it’s only a matter of time before they pop up on the most stylish feet in the office. Try them with a silk bias cut midi skirt for a look that’s more ladylike than cattle farmer. Top with a tucked-in tee and an oversized blazer to add some dimension. Western style boots are available in a broad range of styles and colors; for the office we’d recommend sticking to solid colors with subtle embroidery details. The classic cowboy boot heel form is so comfortable and flattering, these will become your new go-to shoes for work days and weekends alike.
Photo by Kyrzayda Rodriguez @kyrzayda_
The classic shirtdress gets a remake for 2019. The freshest tailoring details on this wardrobe staple are reminiscent of Prairie-style collared day-dresses, but are modernized with a higher hem, a fitted waist and slightly baggy sleeves. We’re particularly smitten with the mustard-yellow hue of this dress from Zara on Kyrzayda Rodriguez, but you can never go wrong with classic white. BCBG did a particularly fresh take this season with a flowing but figure-hugging high-low, and J-Crew has a full color range of modern shirt dresses in a particularly dreamy cotton poplin fabric. Grab a structured handbag and some statement earrings and you have an office-ready look in seconds.