The New Post-Corporate Work Wardrobe

Forget boardroom blues and corporate grey – todays office style is having a renaissance.   The days of stiff blazers, rigid tailoring, pinstripe pencil skirts and corporate uniforms are long gone. 

Workwear outfits are evolving thanks to newer generations, into something more fluid, creative and personal.  Post-pandemic work culture, hybrid schedules and the rise of fashion-forward workplaces means that dressing for the office no longer has to be boring.  It’s about balancing polish with personality and just the right amount of playfulness.

Think oversized blazers shrugged over slip dresses, high-waisted trousers in butter yellow or a pair of sharp loafers paired with bubblegum pink socks. The rules? There aren’t any – except to have fun and bring your personality while still commanding the room.

So how do you bring a playful edge into your 9-to-5 style while still looking professional?

Here’s the new formula for office wear with a twist!

1.        Colour is your Power Move

Trade the endless navy and black rotation for colour-blocking or bright accents.  Think wide-leg trousers in a baby blue, teamed with a white or butter yellow blazer.  Pastel tailoring looks impeccable especially for the summer months.  If head-to-toe bright colour feels too much, and you’re more of a muted neutral tone gal when it comes to dressing, add colour through shoes (bright coloured smart trainers), handbags or statement jewelry.

2.        Relaxed Tailoring

Stiff, structured suits are out – relaxed tailoring is in.  Oversized blazers, slouchy trousers, linens and fluid fabrics still look smart but give you movement and comfort.  Pair then with playful tops – like a striped tee or a silky camisole – for a mix of sharp and soft.  Another way to inject a classy style and instant outfit – is coordinated sets.  These are my personal favourites as the outfit options are endless with the mixing and matching you can do plus, they are office friendly, smart and comfortable.

3.        Print Power

Animal prints, polka dots and checks are no longer off-limits in the office.  A leopard print skirt with a crisp white shirt or a striped blouse tucked into neutral trousers, hits the sweet spot between fun and formal.

4.        Trainers and statement shoes

Footwear is one of the easiest ways to break from corporate tradition.  They can be the punctuation mark of every outfit! White leather trainers look super cool with a relaxed suit for example.  A pair of Mary Jane ballet flats can give such a chic vibe paired with a midi-dress or skirt.  Shoes can add personality without breaking the dress code.

5.        Smart-Casual Mix

Pair casual staples with structured pieces for a modern look.  For example, a crisp blazer over a graphic tee, a sharp waistcoat paired with linen trousers, a white shirt teamed with knee-length city shorts plus wide-leg trousers with a relaxed knit keeps you professional but not predictable.

6.        Accessories that spark JOY

Swap the conservative leather tote or briefcase for a relaxed crossbody or on-trend suede bag.  Layer delicate chains, wear statement earrings or wear a printed scarf as a necktie or around the waist for a stylish layered look.  Accessories are your chance to inject individuality without breaking the office dress code.

To conclude, the new office wardrobe isn’t about blending in, it’s about standing out with subtle wit.  It’s office wear with personality – because the modern workplace deserves style that’s as bold and creative as the people in it.