While some may find it unusual, I thoroughly enjoy dressing for work, particularly given my profession in fashion, where corporate dress codes are less restrictive. Each day at the office becomes a thrilling canvas for creativity and elegance in my attire choices. Furthermore, with my hybrid work schedule, dressing up for in-person days feels all the more celebratory.
As spring 2023 blossoms, I’m eager to infuse my 9-to-5 ensembles with a fresh, seasonal vibe. Below, I’ve curated Five styles that harmoniously blend smartness, sophistication, effortlessness, and cutting-edge trends. Prepare to be inspired by the latest additions to your spring wardrobe, ranging from soothing lavender hues to denim that’s poised for the boardroom.
Silver Shoes
Metallic silver is undeniably stealing the spotlight this season. While we wouldn’t advocate for donning silver trousers in a boardroom setting (though, in the Who What Wear offices, such a daring move would be embraced), incorporating silver shoes into your workwear is a surefire way to inject a touch of fashion-forward flair. Opt for kitten heel slingbacks, classic Mary Janes, or refined ballet flats adorned in shimmering silver. These versatile shoes surprise with their ability to seamlessly pair with suits, dresses, and skirts, adding a touch of glamour to any professional ensemble.
Shop:
ZARA
Slingback Leather Kitten Heel Shoes
$90
AEYDE
Uma laminated leather ballerinas
$295
REFORMATION
Westlyn Closed Toe Wedge
ZARA
Block Heel Ankle Strap Heels
$60
Pleated Wide-Leg Pants
Relaxed, tailored trousers continue to be popular among the fashion set and ideal for business settings. This season is all about roomy, wide-leg, and pleated styles that feel relaxed but elegant.
Shop:
COS
Wide-Leg Pleated Linen-Blend Pants
$150
ZARA
Flowy Pleated Pants
$50
REFORMATION
Lowe Super Wide Leg Pleated Pants
$168
FAVORITE DAUGHTER
The Favorite Pleated Wide-Leg Pants
$230
Desk-Destined Denim
These days, denim is pretty fair game in most smart-casual work settings. Still, we like to keep the fabric polished. Go for denim skirts with midi or maxi hemlines and trouser-like jeans in sleek silhouettes that pair well with blazers and button-downs.
Shop:
PILCRO
Pilcro Slit-Front Denim Skirt
$158
REFORMATION
Montauk Pleated High Rise Jeans
STAUD
Maxwell Blazer
$395
ANINE BING
Hugh Jeans
$250
GRLFRND
Cameron Low Rise Column Maxi Skirt
$225
Relaxed Button-Downs
Button-down shirts have always been a work classic, but their presence on S/S 23 runways is worth mentioning. We saw crisp oversize silhouettes paired with everything from full skirts to tailored trousers. If it’s time for you to upgrade yours, try one of the effortlessly chic styles below.
Shop:
H&M
Oxford Shirt
$25
REFORMATION
Will Oversized Shirt
$128
MAEVE
The Bennet Buttondown Shirt
$98
GAP
100% Organic Cotton Shirt
$50
H&M
Oxford Overshirt
$25
Quiet-Luxury Dresses
Elegant, minimal, and refined. Sleek dresses in simple and versatile silhouettes will make getting dressed for work easier this season. It’s time to channel your inner Shiv Roy.
Shop:
HUA JIA
Iman Cotton Twill Split-Hem Dress
$148
ENZA COSTA
Sleeveless Midi
$225
& OTHER STORIES
Tailored Linen Belted Mini Dress
$139
THE LINE BY K
Yuki Dress
$199
NORDSTROM
V-Neck Long Sleeve Midi Dress
$65