The Essential Items You Need In Your Work Wardrobe

There’s nothing more devastating than coming back to work after the long hiatus 2020 has thrown our way – a chore, made inevitably worse with the chilly temperatures outside and when your outfits for the last few months have relied on a rotation of tracksuits and activewear. We know it’s hard, especially when you’re dealing with the dress code of ‘business casual’ – where linen pants and elevated slippers are acceptable, but sweat pants are probably not.

It’s a fine line and a tricky one at that.

Which is why we’re here to help. To make your transition back to the 9-5 a little easier, we’ve curated the perfect selection of work-appropriate attire that will make getting ready in the morning that bit more enjoyable. Featuring a mixture of cool, lightweight materials, easy throw-on dresses, and the perfect on-hand blazer for unexpected client visits, we have well and truly got you covered.

Keep scrolling for the items we’re definitely including in our back to work wardrobe (whenever that presents itself).

Suit up

For those unexpected client meetings, business lunches or events, having a blazer in your kit means you can easily elevate your casual day outfit without a sweat. Thrown over a maxi dress or a crisp white T-shirt and tailored pants, all you need to add is a pair of strappy heels and a few accessories and your outfit automatically exudes office chic! We love this ‘Linen Pocket Blazer’ from Country Road. The long-lined silhouette and lightweight fabric create the perfect relaxed fit.

Country Road ‘Linen Pocket Blazer’, $299, countryroad.com.au

Wear the pants

As far as pants go, the best option is a style that’s sophisticated, but still versatile – just like the Camilla & Marc ‘Claudette Pant’. The silky texture and soft tapered leg create the ultimate relaxed and comfortable fit, while still keeping it classic. Pair with a blouse of the same material and a top-handle mini bag to take you from office hours to drinks - even if your Zoom party can't see them.

Camilla & Marc ‘Claudette Pant’, $250, camillandmarc.com

Comfort is key

Thankfully, the need for a versatile work shoe doesn’t seem to be going anywhere this coming season, which means if you haven’t already, you should be adding a pair of these comfortable and practical flats to your wardrobe. Available in a variety of styles and colours, there’s no shortage of options and is the easiest way to dress up your look, while still keeping it office appropriate.

Ecco Incise Tailored Shoe, $279.95; au.ecco.com

Relaxed fit

For those days when putting together a multi-faceted outfit requires too much effort, it’s essential to have an easy-to-throw-on dress at the ready. You can keep it simple, opting for a neutral palette, or have a bit of fun sporting a print like the gorgeous ‘Mimosa Broderie Day Dress’, by Aje.

Aje ‘Mimosa Broderie Day Dress’, $415, ajeworld.com.au

The finer details

If an outfit just isn’t gelling, it’s probably because you’re missing the final piece – accessories. Add a spot of sparkle or a spritz of gold to your look and watch it all come together. Australian jewellery brand Amber Sceats has an abundant range of pieces to suit everyone’s taste, whether you’re searching for some statement earrings or a more classic necklace.

Amber Sceats ‘Kamilla Earrings’, $229, ambersceats.com

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