I’ve usually worked in business casual or smart casual work environments, so that’s what my work wardrobe mostly consists of. The biggest difference is smart casual has a little more emphasis on the casual part and I tend to look at it like dressing up jeans. Business casual is what most people (I think) are more familiar with – dress pants and a nice top situation. I like to be comfortable at work, too, so that is high up on my list when I’m considering a new purchase. Below are some of my absolute essentials for my personal work wardrobe.
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Dress Pants
A mix of basic and fun prints can go a long way here. I like midrise or highrise pants and tend to opt for cropped to ankle length. The main thing is that they aren’t too tight and you can sit in them for long periods of time.
Blouses / Tops
I love a good silky or chiffon-like blouse for work – something about a nicer material looks extra professional. I would say the Express portofino shirt is my all-time favorite and I have this style in so many colors. Highly recommend!
Cardigans / Sweaters
I notoriously get cold in the all-too-common low temperatures of offices, so a good cardigan or sweater is a must. I like to keep a plain black one at my desk in case it gets a little extra chilly, too.
Blazers
A blazer can truly transform an outfit. I especially love throwing one on to elevate a jeans look. It’s also great if you’re going out to eat directly after work – you look sexy and polished.
Shoes
Again – comfort is key here! I just want something that is cute and won’t give me blisters. These are my go-to’s but you can typically get away with some more trendy footwear if you have a casual Friday.
Jewelry
I really like understated, simple jewelry for work most the time. It can be fun to have some themed jewelry for the holidays, though!
Jeans
Denim-wise I stick to darker washes and no destroyed jeans. Something about rips and tears usually isn’t office compliant and I don’t think it looks nearly as professional, either.
Dresses
Wearing a dress is almost like cheating because it’s so easy but you look so put together. It appears that you put a lot more effort into how you looked that day than you actually did. And you really only have to figure out what shoes and jewelry you want to wear, too!
Well, I think that sums it up pretty well. Did I miss anything that you find yourself always wearing to work? I’d love to know in the comments!
