Smart office outfits for women

pearl348

I started a new job where the dress code is "smart" but not business suit smart, just no jeans/runners. I basically need to buy a new wardrobe.



Does anyone know of any websites to get inspiration? I have a lot of jumpers but need trousers to match. (E.g a long black jumper - what goes on the bottom?)


Also shoes, I hate heels. Need acceptable shoe ideas.


Thank you

Salthillprom

I’d start by getting basics. White shirt/blouse, maybe some brogue shoes if you don’t like heels, some cigarette trousers in maybe grey, navy and black. Then get a variety of coloured jumpers (Zara do nice fitted ones and they’re very reasonably priced).

Check out Reiss and LKBennett - lots of autumnal and biz-casual but still girly inspiration!
Dresses are easy to style but usually need heels. I'm loving lower/mid height ankle boots and booties like these https://www.lkbennett.com/product/SAALEXISSTRETCHSUEDEBlackBlack~Alexis-Suede-Ankle-Boots-Black with midi dresses/skirts list this https://www.reiss.com/ie/p/chevron-pleated-skirt-womens-evie-in-dark-green-metallic/?category_id=10362&gaEeList=W%20-%20Skirts%20-%20Maxi%20%26%20Midi right now.

meeeeh

It depends what your preferences are. I don't like florals and in general not too many patterns so these would be websites I visit.

Cos do very good slim fit trousers with a bit of elastane which are great under longer jumpers. I'm posting an example but I think there are more in sale section too.

https://www.cosstores.com/en_eur/women/trousers/slim-fit-trousers/product.slim-cotton-twill-trousers-blue.0593713002.html

I think Cos is great quality for the price point. Their shirts are very good. Arket is another brand for great building pieces for your wardrobe. Zara (as mentioned) and Mango have some nice stuff at lover price point. Uniqlo is great for simple jumpers in different colours.

Loafers are very popular at the moment, comfort in general is the buzz word in shoes at the moment.
https://www.stories.com/en_eur/shoes/loafers/product.equestrian-buckle-loafers-plaid.0492114008.html

https://www.uterque.com/ie/footwear/flat-shoes/%E2%80%9Cspecial-edition%E2%80%9D-black-derby-shoes-c1863505p8311016.html?colorId=040

https://www.uterque.com/ie/footwear/flat-shoes/suede-ballerinas-with-asymmetric-heel-c1863505p8332526.html?colorId=080

https://www.massimodutti.com/ie/women/collection/shoes/flat-shoes/black-leather-ballerinas-c1475031p8263012.html?colorId=800&categoryId=1475031

https://www.massimodutti.com/ie/women/collection/shoes/ankle-boots/burgundy-nappa-leather-boots-c1475028p8369001.html?colorId=022&categoryId=1475028

https://www.cosstores.com/en_eur/women/shoes/product.chelsea-boots-black.0332735001.html

SozBbz

I live in trousers and fine knits in work.

I always go for a cigarette trousers, and have probably 8-10 pairs. 3 black (all different in detail, one plain, one satin trim tuxedo style and one with a fringe) 1xnavy, 1x chocolate brown 1x pink. The rest of all patterns of various discription, although I'm enjoyed checked styles at the moment.

I tend to keep one half of my outfit plain, so if I'm wearing loud pants, I'll probably wear a plain top.

I keep flats at my desk and in the boot of my car, but try to wear a low heel around the office. I just think it looks smarter. Would you tolerate a low block heal? They're much more stable and even 2 inches is nice.

Dial Hard

Where did you get your tuxedo cigarette pants? I'm on the lookout for a good pair.

Airyfairy12

Pennys have a selection of very nice pumps, they look great with black or navy tights and a nice smart/casual dress, they also have little cardigans that look great over dresses and tops. Id recommend buying clothes that you can mix and match with each other.

SozBbz

Dial Hard wrote: »

Where did you get your tuxedo cigarette pants? I'm on the lookout for a good pair.

I actually got them in M&S but it was last year. They were a great find, i love a little detail as it can lift an otherwise plain outfit.