6 Work Outfit Formulas That Are So Easy to Copy

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Published Aug 21, 2017

Getting dressed for work can be tough. You want to be comfortable, stylish and appropriate—all at the same time. Enter tried-and-true outfit formulas. The best part of this no-brainer approach? We’re willing to bet you can replicate these six looks using pieces you already have in your wardrobe.

Damsel in Dior

Slim Cropped Pants + T-shirt + Blazer

The beauty of this look is that it can be dressed up or down, depending on how fancy (or casual) your office is. The version above might be best for a low-key vibe, but to dress it up a bit, all you have to do is swap out the slip-on loafers for a pair of neutral pumps and keep the color palette neutral (or even monochromatic).

Get the look: Club Monaco pants ($99); Madewell T-shirt ($25); J.Crew blazer ($148)

Memorandum

Statement Blouse + Pencil Skirt

Pairing a pencil skirt with a button-down is a total classic, but it can also be a touch boring. To spice things up (while remaining work-appropriate), swap the simple button-down for a blouse with an interesting detail like a ruffled sleeve and try a patterned skirt instead of a solid.

Get the look: Avec Les Filles blouse ($58); DVF skirt ($298)

Beauticurve

Shift Dress + Sleeveless Vest

An easy way to keep things interesting? Layer. Breathe new life into your basic shift by wearing it under a chic, streamlined sleeveless vest. The result is fresh, flattering and modern.

Get the look: Felicity + Coco dress ($88); Rachel Zoe vest ($395)

Extra Petite

Silk Blouse + A-line Skirt

Straightforward and flattering—this outfit is basically the holy grail of business casual. A silk blouse is covered-up without being boxy, while an A-line midi (with the top tucked in, of course) highlights your waist without being tight on the rest of your lower half. Materials, prints and colors don’t matter much; the point is that this combination can (and should) be added to your regular rotation.

Get the look: Equipment blouse ($268); BCBG Max Azria skirt ($70)

Memorandum

Culottes + Silk Cami + Jacket

These super-flattering pants look kind of like a skirt but are as comfortable as loose-fitting trousers. Worn with a simple silk cami and topped with an interesting jacket (or blazer), they’re also a terrific, fashion-forward option for a dressier office.

Get the look: Alice + Olivia culottes ($295); Everlane cami ($65); Zara jacket ($50)

Girl with Curves

Chunky Sweater + Pleated Midi Skirt

This is what (fall) dreams are made of. Think the look is boxy? Think again, by employing an artful half-tuck to define your shape and appear intentional.

Get the look: H&M sweater ($13); ASOS skirt ($71)