Christmas is over and everyone is slowly returning back to work. Whether you didn’t buy enough new clothes at the Boxing Day sales or you’re doing the whole “new year, new me thing” … here are a few easy and affordable back to work looks for men and women.
It’s all about what’s easy when it comes to work for me. Essentials make my life easier. I have a certain number of suit pants, appropriate, plain skirts (plain makes it easy to mix and match, which means you need less) and a range of basic tops.
Although, when I actually get to the shops, I get a little excited and my idea of basic essentials often goes out the window. So, I’ve put together a bunch of outfits that would actually grab my attention when I’m shopping, and what I really wear to work on a daily basis (and the guys in my wear office too) …. after all, every day is a fashion show and the world is your runway.
Look 1 – Women
Asym Pencil Skirt, $89.95 from Witchery. Classic, show stopping black and white stripes; pair this statement piece with a basic singlet from Supre for $12.00
www.witchery.com.au www.supre.com.au
Look 2 – Women
There’s nothing I love more than easy. A dress that I can just throw on in the morning and don’t have to fidget with throughout the day. A dress that is fitted yet work appropriate and elegant – all of these necessary things whilst still being easy … because life is hard enough.
Milano Block Tube dress, Portmans, $79.95
Look 3 – Women
As much as I appreciate basics and little black dresses, the girl in me LOVES colour and if I happen find a great fitting dress that comes in other colours, I tend to buy it in every colour, especially if it’s a $30 dress like this Dannii Minogue Petites Rose Sheath Dress (available in black and pink) from Target.
Look 4 – Women
Big puffy skirts are in right now and they are sooooo cute! A black skirt means you can pair it with any colour top. Again, you could pair it with a Supre basic singlet, or you could pair it with this super cute top. Both are from Forever New.
Mellie Short Sleeve Tee, $59.99 Alexandria Ball Skirt, $99.99
Look 5 – Women
I actually have a jumpsuit that I regularly wear to work because it’s another one of those items that is really easy to wear and looks amazing on. If you’re worried about being too exposed, throw on a cardi or light summer jacket, you could even put a belt around the waist. Jumpsuits are a very chic look.
Croc Jumpsuit, Bardot, $129.99
Look 1 – Men
As a female I feel like men don’t have much of a choice when it comes to office attire. It really is only smart looking pants and long sleeve colored shirts, so I feel it’s important to have fun with it by adding colours and patterns. When it comes to colours and patterns, they make guys shirts in a whole bunch of them.
Jelly Print Shirt, Witchery, $99.95 Jensen Suit Pant, Witchery, $199.95
Look 2 – Men
One of the things I love about Target is the value for money. Target is still reasonably priced and is now home to many famous designers. Often when I need basics, Target is my go to shop. Men’s clothes can be super expensive and when it comes to basics, why spend $100 when you can spend $25?! I understand that there are times when you pay for quality but personally I think Target’s clothing is pretty good quality and is even comparable.
Men’s Tailored Fit Shirt – White, Target, $25 or two for $40
Cleveland Flat Front Trouser – Charcoal Pinhead, Target, $49
Look 3 – Men
Depending on your field of work you could potentially get away with smart casual, as opposed to always wearing a suit and tie. I know as a public servant, the department I work for isn’t overly corporate and smart casual is definitely acceptable in most areas. So, how about a pair of Chino’s? Very stylish, comfortable and a little different to mix it up.
Cotton Linen Chino, Country Road, $99.95 Mini Gingham Shirt, Country Road, $99.95
Look 4 – Men
Every guy I know loves Oxford and swears by them for perfect fit, style and quality. If casual Friday’s are a thing in your office, these babies are on sale!
Kenton Small Collar Shirt, Oxford, $129 (currently on sale for $51.60)
Oscar Narrow Leg Jeans, Oxford, $149 (currently on sale for $59.60)
Look 5 – Men
And finally, if you do need that big shot, corporate look, or even just want to be a Harvey Specter, yd. have a great collection of suits. The Sheen Suit at $299.99 is particularly swish!
All of these looks can be found in the Canberra Centre or online.
Happy shopping!
