4 Ways to Dress Stylishly at the Office No Matter Where You Work — Yes, Really

Published on July 11, 2016 at 6:01 AM

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POPSUGAR Photography | Ashley Batz

Challenging yourself to put on something other than your usual office uniform of jeans and a cute top isn't easy. Getting out the door on time is tricky enough without reassessing your wardrobe choices.

But it doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Whether you work in a professional setting with suits galore or someplace super casual where everyone's sporting flannel, we put together four easy-to-follow outfits that have just a hint of edge to them. This way, you can dress as you normally would, but with that bit of flair you're looking for.

If you work in a corporate environment

If you work at a law practice or inside of a government building, you know what dressing corporate looks like. Have fun with your closet basics by tucking a silk blouse into a knee-length swing skirt. Then, add some fun, feminine touches like a braided skinny belt and thick bangles.

If you work in a creative office

Maybe you're a graphic designer working in San Francisco, or perhaps you're an early joiner at a start-up in New York City. Either way, everyone in your office wears jeans and flannel, and you want to step it up.

Start with a pair of printed trousers — they're elevated and comfortable — and tuck in a striped t-shirt. The patterns are contrasting, but they play off of each other nicely. Finish with loafers and a denim jacket.

If you work in production

You've aspired to work in production your entire life. Right now, you are a PA at a studio and carry a lot of video equipment around. You know what that means? Wearing all black is your go-to. But you can infuse an element of surprise into your usual look by half-tucking a boxy chambray shirt into your pants and finishing with some all-black trainers.

If you work at a school

You're a teacher, and your usual wardrobe looks the same every day: jeans (assuming you're at a school that allows jeans), a blouse, and a cardigan sweater in case it gets cold. You can keep your basics the same, but here's a way to add a little bit of edge to your routine: opt for a menswear-inspired button-down blouse, then roll the sleeves up, and finish with a printed scarf at the neck. Comfortable with a touch of chic is the perfect combo for any classroom environment.