Elevated Workwear In The Office
As a creative agency, we have observed how elevated workwear has redefined the workplace dress code, making it not just a necessity but a statement.
Holly wearing COS Suit Coord with H&M belt and Vintage Kitten Heel Boots
What Is Elevated Workwear?
Workwear wardrobes in 2024 have embraced a softer, more relaxed vibe, mirroring the broader shift in office culture. Today’s modern working capsule revolves around elevated basics—pieces you can rely on for in office meetings yet easily dress down for a laid-back weekend look or even up for a few after work drinks!
Think trousers that balance comfort with chic details, and versatile footwear that works just as well at a client meeting as it does for a social occasion. The pieces I’m sharing today are incredibly versatile and can be effortlessly mixed and matched to create a wide range of outfits.
Why Elevated Workwear Matters
Personally we think a main reason why looking good for work matters is because, when you look good, you feel good. Wearing thoughtfully curated pieces instills confidence, which can definitely influence your presence in professional settings. This allows the easy transitions between work, errands, and social engagements. Working in the fashion industry, clothing has always been a significant aspect of your identity. We also appreciate how your personal style can inspire and influence many, often without you even realising it. Inspiration is truly all around us. As you can see in Hollys outfit above, we love a monochrome fit here at The Break. A monochromatic ensemble is an outfit that uses a single colour palette, with shades, tones, and tints of that colour. Monochrome outfits can be chic and sophisticated, and are easy to put together.
These timeless black pieces offer a chic foundation to elevate your everyday looks. Together, these pieces create a capsule wardrobe for workwear, combining comfort with sophistication.
Holly wears H&M Suit Coord with Mango Kitten Heels
Shoes: MNG
Key Elements of Elevated Workwear
Tailored Silhouettes: The foundation of elevated workwear lies in its tailored fit. As you can see we can’t get enough of a blazer and suit trouser coord. Paired with a point toe or sleek smart kitten heel, these pieces exude professionalism while maintaining a sense of personal style.
Every wardrobe needs a hero piece. A statement blazer or wide-leg trousers with clean lines which can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Making workwear your own
Know Your Day: Start with the day’s agenda and tailor your fit around this.
Experiment with Proportions and layering. Cold? add a scarf.
Don’t Fear Colour.
Personalize: A signature scarf, ring.
Shop the look:
Elevating without overwhelming
The key to achieving an elevated style without overwhelming your ensemble lies in balance and intention. The right accessory can enhance your outfit, while too many can detract from its impact.
Below we have chosen one accessory to be the star of the look, a real leather lanyard purse — whether it’s a bold necklace, an oversized pair of earrings, or a statement bag. Let this piece take centre stage while keeping the rest understated. Always remember accessories should complement, not compete with your outfit.
We also like to add function alongside our outfits… A sleek leather belt, for example, can cinch a blazer for an elevated look, while a structured tote adds both function and flair to your outfit.
These two stunning tote bags, the Longchamp Vintage Black Crocodile Embossed Leather Roseau Tote and the Alaïa Le Teckel Suede Tote Bag, exemplify luxury and timeless style, making them exceptional choices for elegant everyday wear or special occasions.
Both bags highlight attention to detail, appealing to those who appreciate high-end accessories. Perfect for everyday wear and work.
Shoes : COS
The Timeless Appeal of Square-Toe Heels
Square-toe heels have cemented their place as a fashion-forward staple, blending vintage with modern sophistication. Their distinctive shape offers a fresh alternative to classic round or pointed toe, making them a go-to choice for those seeking understated workwear chic. Beyond style, square-toe heels often provide a more comfortable fit, offering ample room for your toes—perfect for all-day wear.
Whether styled with tailored trousers for the office or paired with a slip dress for an evening out, these versatile heels bring a unique edge to any outfit while remaining effortlessly chic.
Layer Mindfully
Layering is a winter necessity, but doing it mindfully ensures you stay warm without sacrificing style. The key is to balance practicality with coordination, creating looks that are cozy, polished, and functional. Here are some tips to master the art of layering during the colder months:
Begin with a thermal or lightweight base layer that fits close to your skin.
Add mid-layers like a chunky knit sweater. (as you can see for the office Holly has layered this around her shoulder for a more elevated look while inside)
Your outerwear is the centrepiece of your winter wardrobe, so pick a coat or jacket that suits both your style and the weather.
Scarves, gloves, and hats aren’t just functional—they’re key layering elements.
Winter layering isn’t complete without the right footwear. Opt for a chic pair of boots or weatherproof shoes walking to the office shoes that complement your outfit while keeping your feet warm and dry.
With the right pieces, you can brave the winter chill while staying effortlessly chic.
Here are a few of our must haves for a women’s workwear wardrobe.
A masterclass in layering and structure as the first image shows us. The pleated skirt and fitted top paired with tights and a pop of red (via the bag) create a refined style aesthetic. A long sleeved top in brown, a foundational wardrobe staple, this fitted long-sleeve top is ideal for layering or wearing solo. The cashmere or wool-blend knit pants feature a relaxed silhouette with ribbed cuffs, perfect for lounging or styling alongside our other structured separates picks.
A structured black coat, a minimalist masterpiece. Sling back pointed toe heels, a classic when it comes to styling up any workwear outfit. A grey maxi knit dress, effortlessly chic, this sleeveless knit maxi dress features a streamlined silhouette that flatters the body. The knit material offers comfort, while the minimalist design makes it perfect for layering or wearing alone with a pair of boots and chunky accessories.
Overall Aesthetic
This curated collection highlights the beauty of simplicity through a monochromatic palette of blacks, grays, and deep neutrals. With a mix of tailored separates, soft knits, and accessories, the pieces are luxury picks, ideal for creating timeless, elevated looks for any occasion. Whether dressing up or down, they offer endless styling possibilities while staying true to a minimalist, modern ethos.