Back to Work, But Better: A Smarter Take on Office Style

Returning to work with nothing to wear? Don’t worry, we've got you covered.
Emily in Paris | IMDb

Our tips and tricks to make workwear styling a lot easier, especially if you’re coming from a vacation with a new sleep schedule and a new tan.

Invest in an MBD

Workwear Guide
Victoria Beckham | Dolman Midi Dress in Black | Dhs 4800

What’s an MBD? Just like a LBD (Little Black Dress), an MBD is a Midi/Maxi Black Dress that is a classic wardrobe staple—suitable for any environment, can be dressed up or down, and transitions perfectly from day to night.

Upgrade Your Jackets

Sandro | Vayene Cropped Tweed Jacket Ecru | Dhs 1850

Although we cannot blame you if you’re living in a hoodie at the office, if you want to elevate your cosy cover-up, switch the hoodies for a summer jacket. A cotton blazer is evergreen but if you’re looking to add some texture, then opt for tweed.

Fix Your Footwear

Supplied

Sometimes an outfit looks good in your head but once you actually wear it, it just looks off. Chances are the footwear is letting you down and you might not even realise it. Of course the priority is to be comfortable, but you can be comfortable and stylish. For those looking for both, check out Malone Souliers’ workwear edit for footwear that’s stylish and practical.

When in Doubt, Stick to Minimalism 

Victoria Beckham High Waist Cinch Jeans Dhs 2200 | Rohe Poplin Silk Combined Gilet Shirt Dhs 1900

If you’re clueless on how to present yourself at work, you can never go wrong with minimalism. Even if it’s jeans and a shirt, opt for high-quality fabrics with a good cut and fit. Pair them with accessories, making sure that they are accent pieces rather than statement pieces. Natural makeup that enhances your features and a good blowout are also part of the outfit, and frankly, will do all the heavy lifting for you. 

Get Co-ord-inated

SH Collection | Tie up 2 Piece Set | Dhs 1470

If putting together an outfit is too cumbersome, opt for a co-ord set. You don’t have to put too much thought into it, and you still look stylish and put together. Finding a set that’s work appropriate might be a challenge, but if that’s the case, just stay away from loud prints.

A Shirtdress to Dress Things Up

Tory Burch | Pleated Cotton Shirtdress | Dhs 3390

Another no-nonsense item of clothing is a dress. While it looks like time and effort went into it, in reality, it’s an item you can slip on and easily style with everyday accessories and a blazer. Now that shirtdresses are all the rage, you can even skip the blazer!

Don’t Forget The Accessories!

Loewe | Anagram Brooch in Metal | Dhs 1350

Accessories are a small but vital part in tying together an outfit. If you’re looking to add a piece of luxe to your outfit, invest in some quality brooches. It may look insignificant but it can give a plain outfit the razzle-dazzle it needs.

The Art of Layering

Any outfit can be work-appropriate if layered properly. A mini dress? Layer with trousers as a nod back to the dress over trousers trend. A tube top? Layer a button-up with a contrasting colour underneath. A plain shirt? Put a vest over it. A slip dress? Get the trusty black blazer out. 

Picture of Milrina Martis

Milrina Martis

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