A while back, I made a conscious decision to stop wearing heels to work and instead wear sneakers. As I was a lawyer at an investment bank at the time, this was definitely a bold decision, but a short two years later, the bank decided to allow sneakers per company policy. As a result of my on-the-ground work fighting for cozy girls worldwide, I became an expert at diverting attention away from my dress code violation by sticking to a handful of work-appropriate outfit combinations. There are a few things I've learned in the process: As long as your outfit looks considered and put-together, no one will blink twice at your sneakers. Try to include at least one tailored element to the outfit, whether that be a blazer, tailored pants, or a button-down shirt, and save the neon colorways for another time and place.
Ahead, you'll find some work-outfit inspiration along with a bunch of super-cute sneakers you can definitely get away with wearing. Bookmark this story and refer back when you're fresh out of ideas. Trust me.
1. Shirt + Trousers + Scarf
Holy chic! The coordination in this outfit gives me the chills. It's just so good. Adding a scarf provides a nice touch.
2. Sweater + Button-Down Shirt
Button-down shirts have got to be the most versatile, seasonless shirt style. Invest in a crisp white, blue, or striped silhouette with some structure because you'll wear it often. Add a thick sweater on top for added warmth and polish.
3. Maxi Dress
I'm all about maxis lately, but I had never thought to pair them with sneakers until I saw this outfit. I'm truly inspired by this timeless look and can't wait to try it out.
4. Long Coat + Trousers
There's nothing quite like a long coat to pull a look all the way together.
5. Mismatched Suiting
I haven't bought a full suit in so long—have you? The result is a bunch of mismatched suiting that probably also works together. Keep your inside layer(s) simple to not overwhelm the look.
6. Knit Set
Nothing says "I have my life together" like a coordinated set. Balance out the type-A vibes with some chill sneakers.
7. Jumpsuit
We all have those days when picking an outfit is just not on the list of things you want to think about. That's where the jumpsuit shines bright. Choose structured jumpsuits like this one, and make them do all the work for you.
8. Relaxed Suiting
Over time, I think fashion has gotten a bit less buttoned-up and more relaxed, which I see as a compromise between the suit and the sneakers in all of us. Just look at the balance in this outfit. It looks so polished and fresh at the same time.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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