Workwear Essentials
Whether working in a formal office setting, a creative co-working space or from home, I really enjoy getting dressed for work. I put together a small selection of my current go-to items that work well together and can be spiced up with accessories or a pop of color. Best part? It takes minimal effort to put it together so you’ll still look polished even if you got overzealous with the snooze button.
The Power Trouser
Black trousers are an indispensable piece of my wardrobe. I’ve loved the Aritzia Babaton Cohen Pant (which is now available in different fabrics) and Zara culottes for many years. I’ve worn them to the office, to the grocery store on weekends, on nights out with friends… you name it. Club Monaco also have a killer classic trouser selection. I’ve had a pair of their Borrem style in navy blue since 2013 and they’re still going strong.
However, after years of having the above three on repeat, I’ve been craving something a little different.
I blame my recent obsession with split-front trousers on Pinterest serving me countless images of Victoria Beckham wearing them. She rocks a trouser like no other and has the uncanny ability to make me want every single pair she wears.
The split front is such a cool, quirky detail on a classic silhouette. Whether it’s long and skims the floor like VB’s, a classic length or more cropped, I’m digging it all. I found mine at Winners (lol what else is new) but there’s a cropped high rise pair at Zara that’s at the top of my spring/summer wishlist.
The Statement Layer
My deep love for vests and long overcoats has been well documented on this blog (case in point here and here) and with two new additions from the last 6 months it’s safe to say that I’m in it for the long haul. This long black cardigan from Aritzia was the perfect layer to keep me warm this winter while adding a bit of drama, and I love the look of their lightweight Kahlo robe style for spring/summer. For a sleeveless option, a vest has been a long time standby for me, I have a blush pink one from Veronica Beard that I found at Nordstrom Rack last year, and a navy blue one by Rag & Bone that has been on heavy rotation for several seasons.
The White Shirt
A crisp, white cotton shirt can do no wrong. Whether worn tucked in with trousers and a blazer during the week or with ripped boyfriend jeans on weekends - I guarantee that you’ll find a way to wear this classic piece all year round. My favorite white cotton shirts are from H&M or from my husband’s closet - the latter being the stretch poplin shirts from James Perse. They’re thick, soft and have the perfect amount of give to them. For everyday basics, I love the H&M cotton shirts as they’re always in stock in a variety of cuts so you’re bound to find a flattering style for your shape. The oversized ones make a great bathing suit coverup as well!
The Neutral Blazer
I loooove a black blazer but over the last year I haven’t been reaching for mine as often, instead gravitating towards light neutral shades. I found them to be a lot easier to wear, especially during spring. It adds a bit of softness to the look and I like how when paired with black trousers it still feels clean and put together like a traditional suit would, but a bit less harsh than a solid black.
The blazer worn in this photo is an oldie from Vince but there are many other iterations catching my attention online. From warm wool styles to airy linen, a light neutral toned blazer can be worn to work with midi skirts, dresses and trousers or over jeans after hours for a more casual look.
& Other Stories has been coming out with great blazers for quite some time. They’re like the cooler older sister of H&M and I find myself consistently bookmarking their pieces when shopping online. I wish they had more store locations as their sizing isn’t always consistent but it’s worth a browse either way.
