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Different office dress codes can lead to many question marks on what to wear, especially if your workplace is casual.
However, even if your work environment is laid-back, consideration to your everyday look is important. A relaxed office setting can offer a wide variety of what you can stock your wardrobe with, allowing for some true creativity. The best casual work outfits blend the lines between professional, polished, and fashion-forward.
Here, we took inspiration from the street style set to find perfect casual work looks that don’t feel too stuffy or corporate. Many of these outfits incorporate elements of traditional workwear, such as blazers, trouser pants, and button-downs, but each is styled in a modern, effortless way for today’s working woman. You’ll also find unexpected items, such as leather shackets and bold-colored shirting, mixed with classic work pants or denim. When the look is combined with strong accessories, such as structured handbags, comfortable, kitten heels, and yes—even work sneakers— the results are on point.
Keep reading to discover the 9 best casual work outfit ideas to keep your office wardrobe feeling fresh and in the moment. Each look combines the simplicity and practicality you’re looking for, with stylish results.
1. Poplin That Pops
Edward Berthelot – Getty Images
If your dress code is casual, it’s the perfect excuse to experiment with color in your work wardrobe. A poplin shirt in pastel pink still reads office-appropriate, yet offers a fun twist that doesn’t feel too restrictive. When paired with dark denim trousers, the look is unstoppable. We recommend accessorizing with a chunky belt and reliable Chelsea boots to keep things fresh and modern, while remaining extremely comfortable.
Round-Hem Button-Down Blouse
Denim Trouser
Nili Belt
Faux Patent Leather Chelsea Boots
2. Smart Separates
Claudio Lavenia – Getty Images
You can still mix and match core office pieces into your wardrobe, such as button-downs and trouser pants, but keep the styling from feeling too buttoned up. Forget the matching suit jacket in this case, and pair these everyday essentials with modern accessories, such as a roomy, leather tote bag in a cool cream tone and a low-heeled leather boot, for a polished, yet relaxed approach to your office look.
Relaxed Double-Cuff Shirt
Wool-Blend Suit Trousers
Easy Tote Bag
Rosina Bootie
3. Cropped Capris
Christian Vierig – Getty Images
When it’s warm outside, you can try the trend-forward, capri pant styled with a timeless blazer and button-down. It will give the look an extra nonchalant feel. Keep accessories classic, just like the rest of the outfit, with a sleek slingback and coordinating handbag. It’s a fresh way to do tailoring for the modern day.
Wool Oversized Blazer
Riley Tailored-Fit Poplin Shirt
$70.00 at bananarepublic.gap.com
Crepe Pintuck Slim-Fit Capri Pants
$245.00 at saksfifthavenue.com
Modellerie Square Toe Slingback
4. Boardroom Basics—Remixed
Edward Berthelot – Getty Images
It’s true, a blazer and silk button-down shirt have the makings of a corporate closet, but that is why we are encouraging a little remix. By wearing these work wardrobe must-haves with cool, straight jeans and “Dad” sneakers, these foundations are made to feel a little more relaxed. You will still look professional, just with a little, street style flair.
Notch-Lapel Slim-Fit Blazer
$495.00 at saksfifthavenue.com
The Must-Have Shirt in Washable Silk
Kelly Jeans
Sneakers
5. Luxe Leather
Christian Vierig – Getty Images
A casual workplace offers the opportunity to experiment with texture. A leather shacket (or faux version) is a great way to reinvent the traditional, work shirt. It will become the focal point to build your whole outfit around. Style it with wide-leg trousers, pointy shoes (flats are a must), and an east-west handbag all in a bright white hue.
Naum Long-Sleeve Alt-Leather Shirt
$425.00 at bergdorfgoodman.com
The Favorite Pants
Darcy Leather Ballet Flats
Simona Leather Shoulder Bag
$2100.00 at saksfifthavenue.com
6. Retro Feels
Edward Berthelot – Getty Images
A quirky shirt with a retro nod can lend a bit of fun to your office attire. Whether you go for a color-blocked, western-style version or an oversized bowler, keep things grounded by pairing it with neutral mainstays such as a leather midi skirt, pointed flat, and structured handbag, all in black. The look is cute, casual, yet still completely appropriate for an office setting that is on the laid-back side.
x Alexa Chung Satin Western Shirt
Leather Midi Skirt
Isabel Pointed Toe Flat
Brando Black Bag
7. Silky Suiting
Edward Berthelot – Getty Images
If you want to go the suiting route, make it a silk one. It’s a little less formal than more structured fabrics, such as wool or cotton, and extra comfortable to wear all day long. This set feels just like your favorite pajama set. Layer a white T-shirt underneath to keep things from feeling too proper, and pair it with leather Mary Jane flat shoes (or white sneakers!).
Joubert Silk-Satin Blazer
Pima Slim Crew
Tova Silk-Satin Straight-Leg Pants
Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
8. To the Maxi
Edward Berthelot – Getty Images
Wearing a one-and-done maxi dress is the easiest way to get you out the door in style. A sweater dress is the best solution for when you want to stay comfortable and warm. Keeping with the casual theme, minimalist accessories should be your go-to. We love the simplicity of a kitten heel shoe, gold chain necklace, and mini designer bag.
The Dip Dress
Blossom Pendant Necklace
Pointed Leather Slingback Kitten Heels
Puzzle Edge Mini Top-Handle Bag
$2650.00 at bergdorfgoodman.com
9. Espresso Dreams
Edward Berthelot – Getty Images
A cardigan can be your best friend in the colder months, but how do you keep it from looking too casual? The answer is simple: pair it with an elegant maxi skirt. In the winter, we love a wool fabrication; when it’s warmer, a denim version. Style it with kitten heels and a shoulder bag, all in similar espresso tones.
Cooper Wool-Cashmere Cardigan
Virgin Wool Maxi Skirt
Catrina Pointed Toe Pump
Symmetry 19 Bag
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