For those in the office with a regular to 9-to-5, there’s no one answer to the daily question of what to wear to work that is both smart and stylish. If you’ve been following along with our fall fashion guides, then it’s likely that you already have a solid roster of workwear essentials lined up–think crisp shirting, quirky loafers and boat shoes, shirtdresses, tailored trousers, the list goes on. Now comes the fun part (and where we come in): styling your fall work outfits. Since it’s fashion we’re obsessed with after all, you can also expect an It item or two in the mix, like Madewell’s rugged suede blazer, Toteme’s updated kitten heel, or St. Agni’s leather skirt.
This season, the star of the modern work wardrobe must be the skirt. Pencil styles, full midis, and elegant column shapes dominated the fal runways and will be the heroes of our wardrobe, too. Knitwear is also having a moment. Shrunken cardigans, preppy knit polos, and cashmere tees are some of our favorites for layering once temps drop. That said, traditional workwear basics, like tailored blazers, trousers, and button-ups, aren’t going anywhere. Another Tomorrow’s single-breasted blazer is a slim take on a timeless classic, while Align’s collarless version adds an element of elegance.v
Vogue’s Fall Workwear Wish List:
- The Polished Blazer: Toteme wool-blend blazer, $840
- The Relaxed Tailoring: Another Tomorrow straight-leg pants, $690
- The Suede Jacket: Madewell Kline blazer, $498
- The Shrunken Cardigan: Cos cropped wool cardigan, $135
- The Leather Pencil Skirt: St. Agni paneled leather maxi skirt, $585
- The Easy Crewneck: Everlane Cocoon crew, $168
- The Everyday Pump: Toteme wedge leather pumps, $780
- The Polished Loafer: Emme Parsons Danielle suede loafers, $525
- The Collarless Blazer: Aligne Daphne long waisted blazer, $265
- The Wool Mididress: Veronica de Piante Anais ribbed wool midi dress, $1,795
- The High-Waist Trouser: Vince pleated high-waist pants, $259
- The Oversized Shirt: Alex Mill Jo shirt in cotton poplin, $145
- The Suede Bag: Reformation oversized Patrizia bag, $598
- The Pleated Skirt: Theory irregular pleat crepe midi-skirt, $394
When it comes to easy outfit elevation, shoes are always the place to start. This season, we’re obsessed with Mary Janes in all shapes and styles, from Proenza Schouler’s ballet flat version to Loewe’s witchy block heel. Loafers are a key shape, too. Minimalists will love Emme Parsons’s suede Danielle slip-on, while those looking for a playful wink may gravitate towards a chunkier style from Miu Miu.
Below, 10 fall work outfits to wear on repeat all season long. Your working wardrobe has never looked so good!
A Pencil Skirt Suit
Forget the ’80s Working Girl connotations—skirt suits are back and better than even. We love a sleek skirt paired with a boxy, single-breasted blazer and a sweater slung across the shoulders.
A Pantsuit + A Quirky Loafer
If a full suit feels too prim for your style, try wearing a slimmer shape and mixing it with an unexpected shoe. We love Miu Miu’s textured suede loafers, which will only get better with time.
A Column Skirt + A Cardigan
While a leather column skirt can easily be a staple for a night on-the-town, it can also be office appropriate when paired with a cute cardigan. Try it with chunky heels or a pair of ballerinas and simple white T-shirt.
A Shirtdress + Kitten Heels
Toteme’s artful take on the kitten heel will certainly become an It accessory this fall. We love how it simultaneously adds humor and elegance to a shirtdress and trench coat.
A Collarless Blazer + Wide-Leg Trousers
Collarless blazers are having a moment this fall, and for good reason. Softer and more feminine than a traditional blazer, they still add an air of polish and professionalism to any look. Pair yours with wide-leg trousers and a simple knit.
A Long Sleeve Midi Dress + White Pumps
Whenever you’re feeling sartorially stumped, there’s nothing easier than throwing on a simple, chic midi dress. Keep the look monochromatic by adding off-white pumps and a black, leather blazer.
A Full Skirt + A Polo Knit
Skirts and sweaters were abundantly popular on the streets of Milan Fashion Week, and we weren’t surprised. The versatile combination is a great choice for transitional dressing.
Khakis + All Black
Keep khaki trousers from feeling too preppy by pairing them with all black everything, even accessories. A blazer, chic belt, and classic loafers will do the trick.
A Big Button-Up + A Big Suede Tote
Oversized suede totes are the bag of the season. Wear yours with a roomy button-up and relaxed trousers for an easy yet polished look when getting ready in a pinch.
A Suede Blazer + A Pleated Maxi
We’re still here for last year’s hit pleated maxi skirt. Take yours into 2024 by pairing it with a suede blazer, another It item of the season.