Whether you’re back to the office or barely left, a new season is always a great time for a workwear refresh. “My definition of modern workwear dressing is versatile, flexible pieces that a woman who is always on the go can wear effortlessly, whether she’s heading from the office to dinner or from a workout to lunch,” designer Nili Lotan explains.
The trick is buying all the elements you’ll turn to over and over again to build new looks every day that never feel repetitive. Jackets are a great place to start. For Lotan, the trench is a mainstay. “The classic trench is a powerful wardrobe staple that is always available in my collections in a variety of colors and looks chic paired with the Celia Jean or any of my NL Classic pants,” she explains.
Below, women also leverage the oversized blazer and jacket dress. You can also invest in coordinating suiting that can be worn together or separately. And when in doubt, pick up pieces that are styled just as easily on your downtime—like leather trousers and white pants. See 10 looks that will inspire your nine-to-five wardrobe and shop the key pieces.
There’s hardly an easier winter pairing than a knit dress and knee-high boots—we love the idea in neutral shades, but black or gray works just as well.
A beautiful cashmere dress is forever.
We love a slouchy suede boot.
Ashley Olsen proves you can look cool at work. Lean into great black pieces like unexpected color button-downs and, yes, even a hat.
Sometimes a day just calls for a hat.
A collector’s item.
This Parisian stylist proves nothing is more impactful than a three-piece suit—just add loafers.
The vest trend is about to become a staple.
These trousers can do the work outside of being paired with a suit.
Just add white socks on the weekend.
This look is so completely timeless—just keep all the elements on standby. They include but are not limited to pleated midi skirts, classic printed silk scarves, pumps, day bags, turtlenecks, and chain necklaces.
Double this as a headscarf for brunch.
This skirt is so special you’ll want to save it for date night too.
A little red bag can brighten any winter day.
Elsa Hosk manages to make a skirt suit and plaid coat feel all grown up, and we love the idea of wearing this to work all winter—but maybe swap in some wool tights.
A statement coat will take you miles.
This can look super smart with a cashmere turtleneck as well.
Combat boots work in the boardroom too. Trust.
A great slouchy suit brings that insouciance you’re looking for in a work wardrobe—it’s pulled together but not too serious. Top it all off with a perfect trench coat.
For warmer winter days.
Not all workbags need to fit a laptop.
Try swapping out your classic black slacks for a high-rise white pair to give your work uniform a refresh. A camel coat is the ideal pairing.
Are you okay if you don’t have a great camel coat yet?
White jeans can be dressed up for the office with the right counterparts.
You’ll end up integrating this belt daily.
Layering your leather pieces feels pulled together and smart. Accessorize with tough boots and just see if anyone at work disagrees with you.
There’s just an innate strength to black leather.
A skirt to take over the company in.
Stomp around like you mean it.
A double-breasted coat layered over black separates, worn with a bougie bag, is a winning work combo.
This tissue-thin turtleneck is an ideal layering piece.
This one is for the forever archives.
A good investment is for life.
Clearly, we’re feeling all black for winter, but a great long tux coat can look equally chic over khaki trousers with a white button-down too.
We love the versatility of this jacket.
This one does fit a laptop, and it looks good doing so.
