With winter around the corner, it’s time again for a seasonal wardrobe inquiry: What winter work outfits can we wear that are both fashion-forward and office-appropriate at once? Whether you’re back in the office full time or barely left, winter work outfit ideas aren’t always easy to conjure up. With climate shifts, constantly fluctuating humidity, and random bouts of precipitation, the season requires a bit of wardrobe play. But what a time it is to play, when layering, outerwear, and exaggerated lengths are abundant!
Our definition of modern work outfits consists of flexible, versatile pieces for the woman on-the-go to transfer from desk to dinner date. For Sissy Chacon, an L.A.-based stylist who also writes an online style newsletter, The Sort, it’s important to feel empowered at the office and fulfilled through personal style. “If expressing your personal style at the office is allowed, does no harm, and will make your day a little better, go for it. If your personal style is to blend in—if that helps you stay centered at work or to draw more of a line between your work-life balance, that’s valid too,” she tells Bazaar.
By way of labels like Nili Lotan, Toteme, and Bevza, you’ll find stylishly proficient items that are just as put-together as they are pared-back. (See: matching suit sets, elegant wool coats, and tailored work pants.) But if you’re seeking even more of a fashion-forward approach, Chacon thinks referencing the runways is worthwhile: “Look to Saint Laurent and Miu Miu runways, where traditional ideas of officewear such as pantyhose, pointy slingback pumps, pencil skirts, and shoulder-padded blazers are reinterpreted for an updated retro look.”
Keeping Chacon’s notes in mind, here are Bazaar’s 12 best winter work outfit ideas that won’t sacrifice your personal style, whatever that may be.
The “Coat As a Dress” Outfit
The statement, structured coat has gotten a makeover—and is so wearable, it can double as a winter dress. This Fashion Week guest made hers office-friendly with cropped trousers, kitten heels, and a little sock, of course.
A terrific skirt suit ticks all the boxes regarding between-weather style dilemmas, especially if you’re returning to the office full time. Add tights for extra warmth, and layer on a tissue turtleneck or cashmere T-shirt.
You really can’t go wrong with a blazer in all of its forms. Whether oversize, structured, fitted, or slightly cropped, the blazer for work is a mainstay. To keep it classic, wear yours over a printed button-down shirt for a pop of pattern.
Maxi dresses come in all silhouettes, fabrics, and weights, but for fall and winter, opt for the knitted maxi. It’s an easy “yes” and pairs seamlessly with knitted heels, mules, and other office-friendly footwear.
If your office environment is more exploration-friendly, look no further than the leather bomber jacket. Wear yours over your favorite dress, and beneath a heavier coat come December.
An autumn/winter wardrobe isn’t complete without the trusted cable-knit sweater—but the shapes of today are a little looser and boxier than those of the past. Team yours with workwear trousers.
A monochromatic look was once reserved for all-black ensembles and creamy separates. But now, we’re getting a taste of fashion’s new favorite neutral: chocolate brown. Break up the head-to-toe browns with white accessories.
Wool tweed and knitted dresses in sleek silhouettes look polished and offer plenty of warmth. Plus, they can be styled with coordinating jackets for extra comfort if you need it. A versatile shirt dress is another great option, layered over a fine knit roll neck jumper. In every instance - tights are a must.
Mix neutrals for elegance – Neutral beige, gray, and black colors are vital in winter fashion. You can layer them in shades to create a refined and elegant look. For instance, a charcoal gray coat over a light gray sweater creates a subtle, stylish contrast.
A chunky, mélange knitted turtleneck, straight midi skirt, and black knee-high boots make for a truly effortless look that can be worn to the office or a dinner date. Top with your favorite coat and you're good to go.
Start with a base layer made of moisture-wicking material, such as wool or polyester, to keep you dry. Then add a warmer layer like a sweater or cardigan over it. Finally, top it off with a jacket or coat for extra insulation.
Business casual is the most common dress code that companies use. Acceptable clothing for this dress code includes slacks, khakis, loafers, denim, simple jewelry and more casual but neat hair styling.
Clothing should be clean - no torn, dirty or excessively wrinkled items. Clothing with offensive or distracting words or pictures would remain out of the workplace. Overly revealing apparel exposing too much skin or undergarments is also inappropriate in the workplace.
A winter business casual wardrobe should be sophisticated yet comfortable and office-appropriate but not over-the-top formal. In other words, you don't have to sacrifice feeling good to look professional, and we have the expert intel to prove it.
Wearing Summer Dresses in Winter Without Being Chilly
Start with a base layer of thermal or woolen leggings, add a long-sleeved top, then layer your summer dress over the top. Add a belt, a cardigan, or a sweater for extra warmth. Wear ankle or knee-high boots with thick socks and accessorize with a scarf or necklace.
Introduction: My name is Arline Emard IV, I am a cheerful, gorgeous, colorful, joyous, excited, super, inquisitive person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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