Many offices are opening back up to their employees, whether it be a hybrid situation or returning to a full 5 days a week. After a year and a half of working from home, everything from commuting to interacting with co-workers in-person and not a webcam is totally foreign. Undoubtedly, one of the hardest parts about transitioning back to a regular work schedule is the clothing! No longer can we wear business on top and cozy pjs on the bottom. If you are as gung ho about fashion as I am, use the return to the workplace as an excuse to buy into new trends to get you excited about heading in. So how do today’s top trends translate into work attire? I got you covered on the latest back to office wardrobe essentials you need for the fall and winter seasons ahead.
Brown is the New Black
Neutrals are always a must in both your work and your leisure closet. White, black and beige will always have a place but this year, another neutral has entered the scene – chocolate brown. This rich, luxe variation has been seen all over the major fashion tastemakers on both TikTok and Instagram. The best part is the fact that this dark colorway looks good on anything it is placed on. Upgrade your work bag, invest in a new blazer or an updated button up with this velvety chocolate brown as a way of bringing a more wearable trend into your office attire.
New Knitwear
Knits are not groundbreaking for this time period. Obviously, as temperatures drop, we naturally seek out cozier, warmer textures to bundle up in and sweaters are always the obvious answer. This year, we are seeing the knitwear category updated to two main territories: chunky and delicate. Heavy, chunky sweaters are ideal for the latter transition from fall to winter, whereas the more delicate knits are perfect for fall. These back to office knits translate to ribbed dresses, form-flattering matching shirt and skirt sets and textured cardigans and wide-leg pants. I absolutely love how the trend is putting this cozy fabric on so many different silhouettes. Be sure to stock up!
Invest in the Vest
Speaking of knits, another big one to return is the vest. Personally, I am all about the more oversized sweater vests as they make layering simple. Beyond this, the vest is evolving to other silhouettes this fall. The sleeveless trench makes for a chic transitional layering device. Or maybe you are more of a blazer vest kind of girl. This can be styled like any other blazer – paired with some trousers or denim. Either of these vests make for stylish layering pieces for work.
The Pleated Skirt
Another popular fashion trend you can apply to your work wardrobe is the pleated skirt. Perhaps, the mini pleated skirt is a little short for the office. However, there are plenty of midi and full length options available too. As far as fabrications go, soft, billowy pleated skirts are effortlessly chic and style well with basic tops and blazers. But if you are looking to toughen up this more feminine style, try shopping for faux-leather pleated skirts for an edgier take on the trend.
Buttoned Up
Collared shirts are like the old, reliable back to office piece you know you can always wear. Of course, I am speaking to the typical white button up we all know and love. It never fails to look good with all the other office wardrobe essentials like a pair of trousers or a pencil skirt. Do not be afraid to discover new combinations if your workplace allows some flexibility. Pair your button down shirt with printed pants or layer it underneath the aforementioned sweater vest. For a more updated 2021 version to wear upon your return to work, you can look for little added details like statement sleeves. You could even opt for stripes or oversized fits as well.
Footwear Refresh
Of course, you will obviously need to accompany all of the above workplace fashion trends with some footwear. The classic kitten heels, ballet flats, etc are swell for the office and may be a good option when pairing with a more loud clothing trend. Yet, amping up your shoe choices for the office is equally as exciting. This season, you can expect to see far more pointed toe heels, which offers up a really polished and poised look. If you are seeking something a little more non-traditional for a more relaxed office culture, another big (literally) trend is the platform. Whether it be a raised mary jane or even a loafer, the larger sole the more validity it has this fall. Platforms are a great way to add some edge to your workplace clothing.
What back to office wardrobe essentials are your favorite?