If you wear the same shirt and pant combination to the office every day, you probably need to overhaul your workwear wardrobe. Of course, it can be hard to know exactly how to go about that process, especially when your coworkers are failing to provide you with the necessary fashion inspiration. Thankfully, new trends in office wear can help guide the way.
Some of the newest trends include:
Choose a Relaxed Fit
Picture an office worker in the 20th century. It’s likely that you’re imagining somone wearing a dress shirt, a jacket of some kind, tight-fitting slacks and, perhaps, a tie. For a long time that was a mandatory uniform, one which projected professionalism and trustworthiness.
However, since the turn of the century, office dress code has become laxer. Now, depending on where you work, wearing such a stodgy outfit might even be off-putting. The secret to modern workwear, which has grown trendier every year, is to wear clothes with a relaxed cut. These pieces project:
Tasteful Accessories
Choosing the right accessories is an art, but it’s important not to get carried away. If you walk into the office with your arm wreathed in expensive bangles that make you sound like a windchime, your coworkers are going to be frustrated with you immediately.
In the words of Coco Chanel, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” Thankfully, this minimalistic approach is becoming fashionable again. If you’re an enterprising woman, consider these watches, just one of which can complement any outfit. If you identify as a man or masculine of center, think about wearing a ring or finding a minimal watch of your own. Or consider them all!
Embracing Color
Traditionally, office outfits trended towards dark, neutral colors. They projected a seriousness that, again, modern office culture is sprinting away from. That means the door is now open to experiment with colors.
If you do decide to add some color to your workwear wardrobe, make sure you don’t over do it. Garish colors are still tacky and distracting, but if you can find a happy medium between boring and bright, your coworkers will probably thank you for spicing things up.
The Return of Cargo Pants
Projecting versatility is important, and cargo pants are the ultimate workwear symbol of versatility. Lined with several pockets and made from cozy cotton blends, they are both comfortable and practical, and can be paired with a fresh set of sneakers for a look that suits the boardroom and your favorite post-work cocktail spot.
Boots at the Office
Years ago, punk rockers made worker boots fashionable. Now, perhaps unexpectedly, they are becoming popular in the office. There are several different brands that you should keep your eyes on if you’re interested in this powerful but modern look:
When it comes to wearing your boots, don’t be afraid to pair them with all sorts of different outfit combinations. While they may seem like they only work with select clothes, they are surprisingly versatile, and will complement most pieces.
Denim, Denim, Denim
Just like worker boots, denim has been pulled from the realm of exclusively blue-collar to the modern office, where it is not only accepted but wholly embraced. Denim shirts have a timeless, ready-to-work look that can be invigorating to your coworkers and reassuring to your clients.
Modern Office Trends Concluded
Mixing up your workwear might seem like a daunting task, but once you get started, you will find that it can be much less expensive than you initially fear. Finding the right pieces is a matter of digging through the internet, comparing notes with your other stylish coworkers, and thinking about what clothes will project the qualities that you want to embody in the office.
