15 Zara Pieces to Create Your Capsule Work Wardrobe

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Today's definition of workwear applies to clothes that look professional enough to be worn in an office setting (whether virtually or IRL), yet still convey a sense of comfort and practical ease. Stiff pencil skirts or button-down shirts might be difficult to incorporate into your wardrobe again, especially after months of staying home and working remotely. Instead, wear-everywhere cardigans, relaxed shirts, and polished midi dresses are in favor.

Versatile clothes that easily transition from daytime meetings to after-dark adventures are set to be the most popular choices regardless of the season. Consider, for example, a pair of leather pants. While you might not think of them as a traditional workwear item, you can take them from a work presentation to happy hour with the addition of chic kitten heels and a billowy blouse. There's also nothing like a tailored blazer to instill confidence during a big meeting with your boss.

In recent years, designers have updated this workwear staple to accommodate a less restricting fit, allowing you to look and feel comfortable no matter what you have scheduled on your calendar. With that in mind, we went looking for timeless pieces (perfect for business-casual outfits and dressy ensembles alike) that will be the foundation of your new-and-improved working wardrobe. Zara has several trendy, affordable options to get you started, whether it's an oversize blouse with slits or a sleek satin skort. The best part? You'll be able to continuously wear these Zara work clothes each season. Whether you're contemplating a return to the office or looking to upgrade your work-from-home uniform, you'll find something in this curation of Zara work dresses, pants, skirts, and tops. Once you shop your Zara outfits, remember to complete your ensembles with the appropriate (and equally stylish and comfortable) work shoes.

A Reworked Top: Oversized Blouse With Slits
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A Reworked Top: Oversized Blouse With Slits

The vibrant hue on this Oversized Blouse With Slits ($50) is an automatic attention-getter, and the relaxed silhouette makes it ideal for a long work day. Pair it with tailored trousers to make a colorful impression on your first day back to the office, or style it with blue jeans for those casual Fridays.

A Striking Print: Geometric Jacquard Knit Sweater
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A Striking Print: Geometric Jacquard Knit Sweater

If you work in an informal and/or fashion-forward office environment, then this Geometric Jacquard Knit Sweater ($30) will garner plenty of compliments. The print is eye-catching, and the cropped silhouette is right on trend. Paired with high-rise jeans or a silky slip skirt, it will give off an air of easy elegance. Or style it with tailored trousers for a more dressed-up look.

A Seasonless Classic: Asymmetrical Top
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A Seasonless Classic: Asymmetrical Top

This Asymmetrical Top ($36) offers plenty of coverage yet shows some playfulness with the exposed shoulder. It's a top that will work for all seasons, so you'll get tons of wear from it year-round. And the white shade is incredibly versatile, easily pairing with any item in your closet.

A Floral Explosion: Geometric Jacquard Dress
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A Floral Explosion: Geometric Jacquard Dress

This Geometric Jacquard Dress ($50) will boost your mood as soon as you slip it on. The palette is playful and a bit retro inspired, while the silhouette is wearable and extremely practical. Pair it with tall heeled boots for a polished and preppy look or with strappy heels for a summertime-ready 'fit.

A Wear-Everywhere Layer: Textured Plaid Overshirt
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A Wear-Everywhere Layer: Textured Plaid Overshirt

You get both a top and a jacket when you buy this Textured Plaid Overshirt ($70). The versatility is unrivaled — style it over a white blouse for a chic look or with a sweater for extra warmth. You can also button it all the way up and wear it as a top on its own.

A Polished Day-to-Night Skirt: Buttoned Satin Effect Skort
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A Polished Day-to-Night Skirt: Buttoned Satin Effect Skort

This Buttoned Satin Effect Skort ($40) is a fun, nostalgic twist on the typical skirt. The built-in shorts provide peace of mind and freedom of movement, and the pattern perfectly complements an array of colors. Try pairing with a white button-up and layered gold necklaces for a classy, work-ready look.

A Textured Piece: Jewel Button Knit Top
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A Textured Piece: Jewel Button Knit Top

Whether you wear this Jewel Button Knit Top ($40) over a silk cami or opt to wear it alone with your favorite worn-in jeans, the crochet-style texture and jewel buttons amp up the visual appeal. Pair with cognac slides or crisp white sneakers to complete your look.

A Patterned Top: Floral Knit Jacquard Cardigan
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A Patterned Top: Floral Knit Jacquard Cardigan

This Floral Knit Jacquard Cardigan ($50) is sure to make a statement at office parties and regular work days alike. From the painterly details to the vibrant green-and-white color combo, this cardi will be a new favorite in your wardrobe for seasons to come.

A Romantic Style: Ruffled Pleated Blouse
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A Romantic Style: Ruffled Pleated Blouse

Everything about this Ruffled Pleated Blouse ($46) is romantic, from the plunging neckline to the whimsical ruffle details. The loose silhouette pairs well with neutral pants and metallic heels.

For Day-to-Night Versatility: Full Length Faux the '90s Leather Pants
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For Day-to-Night Versatility: Full Length Faux the '90s Leather Pants

These "Matrix"-inspired Full Length Faux the '90s Leather Pants ($50) will amp up your office attire whether you wear them with an asymmetric top, a knit sweater, or a fitted blouse. They're professional enough for daytime work meetings in addition to after-dark parties.

A Pop of Color: Faux Suede Dress
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A Pop of Color: Faux Suede Dress

This Faux Suede Dress ($36) in fuchsia presents one of spring's biggest color trends, though this style is also available in light pink, white, and black. It has a relaxed yet put-together silhouette that can work on its own, or it can be layered over tights and a cool moto jacket when fall rolls around.

A Classic Blazer: Cropped Textured Blazer
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A Classic Blazer: Cropped Textured Blazer

This Cropped Textured Blazer ($70) gives off serious boss energy, thanks to the classic structured silhouette and tailored fit. Opt for the matching skirt for a standout suit, or swap in your go-to trousers or dark denim jeans, depending on the occasion.

For Some Stripe Action: Striped Rib Knit Polo
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For Some Stripe Action: Striped Rib Knit Polo

Wear stripes without being over the top in this Striped Rib Knit Polo ($36). The visual effect created by the mix of vertical and horizontal lines is unexpected, and the colors are springtime essentials.

An Eye-Catching Print: High-Waisted Straight Cut Pants
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An Eye-Catching Print: High-Waisted Straight Cut Pants

The fit and soft fabric of these High-Waisted Straight Cut Pants ($70) make them surprisingly wearable, even if you've got back-to-back meetings. Finish your ensemble with the matching cropped blazer or with a blouse worn under a chic tweed jacket.

Plaid Play: Plaid Print Dress
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Plaid Play: Plaid Print Dress

This summery Plaid Print Dress ($60) is one of those items you can reach for whenever you have no idea what to wear and need something easy yet stylish — and as quickly as possible. Accessorize with stacked bangles and your favorite sandals for a look that works for all occasions, including dressy Mondays at the office, weekend beachside dinners, or vacation outings.