Anyone who has ever worked in an office has likely struggled to navigate the dress code. You want to look polished and professional, but you also want to feel like yourself. It's a tricky balance.
Depending on how formal your particular workplace is, there should be room to inject your personal style into your 9-5 uniform. It can be subtle tweaks—the addition of a vintage silk scarf and your favourite pair of loafers—or in more casual environments, you can pretty much dress as you would OOO, with just a few adjustments (ie. the crop tops and thigh-highs should probably stay at home).
You also have to be comfortable. When hopping from lunch meeting to conference call and sitting in one spot for hours on end, it's crucial to avoid too-tight shoes or an off-shoulder sleeve that keeps slipping down. These details might just be the difference between a stress-free working day and one full of nagging frustrations.
With all this in mind, we've pulled together seven spring-ready looks that are smart enough for most offices but far from boring. Scroll on to see for yourself.
1. Blazer + Skinny Jeans + Heeled Boots
Style Notes: While ripped denim might not be suitable for an office environment, sleek black skinnies are a different story—particularly if you pair them with heeled boots and streamlined outerwear.
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The ideal cover-up for those chilly spring days.
Such a flattering shape.
With that mid-heel, you can comfortably wear these boots all day long.
2. Blazer + Longline Skirt + Pointed Flats
Style Notes: If you sit at a desk from 9-5 every day, you might find that a skirt is far less restrictive than trousers. A blazer will keep the look feeling formal enough for a corporate environment.
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This simple blazer holds the power to spruce up any outfit.
Easy to take from desk-to-dinner.
Who needs heels when you have these elegant flats?
3. LBD + Loafers
Style Notes: Okay, a plain black dress isn't a novel idea for the office, but instead of styling it with stilettos, reach for your loafers to create a cool, on-trend combination.
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This is so similar to the dress Emma is wearing, but it's a fraction of the price.
Compliments guaranteed.
4. White Shirt + Wide-Leg Trousers + Structured Bag
Style Notes: You truly can't go wrong with a white button shirt and tailored trousers; a version of this pairing will work in every office, no matter how formal.
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For work, weekend and beyond.
Perhaps the chicest trousers I've seen this season.
A forever piece you'll never regret investing in.
5. Utility Jumpsuit + Mules
Style Notes: What's easier than an all-in-one item? Jumpsuits are perfect for rushed mornings, and mules are the ultimate slip-on-and-go shoe.
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I want to wear this all spring long.
These come in three other vibrant shades, too.
6. Brown Suit + Ribbed Tank + Silk Scarf
Style Notes: For a 2024 take on the suit, switch your black tailoring for a chocolate brown set. A silk scarf will add an extra level of interest to this tried-and-tested look.
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You could also style this separately with jeans and sneakers.
I love the slightly slouchy fit of this pair.
It's always worth stocking up on elevated basics.
This has a luxurious feel.
7. Trench Coat + Skinny Pants + Court Shoes
Style Notes: For the morning commute, layer up with a classic trench coat and a slim knit underneath. We suggest taking your time finding the right pair of court shoes that you won't mind wearing daily.
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Classic outerwear might just be what M&S does best.
Soon to be the foundation of many great outfits.
Trust me, these will never date.
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