With winter around the corner, it’s time again for a seasonal wardrobe inquiry: What winter work outfits can we wear that are both fashion-forward and office-appropriate at once? Whether you’re back in the office full time or barely left, winter work outfit ideas aren’t always easy to conjure up. With climate shifts, constantly fluctuating humidity, and random bouts of precipitation, the season requires a bit of wardrobe play. But what a time it is to play, when layering, outerwear, and exaggerated lengths are abundant!
Our definition of modern work outfits consists of flexible, versatile pieces for the woman on-the-go to transfer from desk to dinner date. For Sissy Chacon, an L.A.-based stylist who also writes an online style newsletter, The Sort, it’s important to feel empowered at the office and fulfilled through personal style. “If expressing your personal style at the office is allowed, does no harm, and will make your day a little better, go for it. If your personal style is to blend in—if that helps you stay centered at work or to draw more of a line between your work-life balance, that’s valid too,” she tells Bazaar.
By way of labels like Nili Lotan, Toteme, and Bevza, you’ll find stylishly proficient items that are just as put-together as they are pared-back. (See: matching suit sets, elegant wool coats, and tailored work pants.) But if you’re seeking even more of a fashion-forward approach, Chacon thinks referencing the runways is worthwhile: “Look to Saint Laurent and Miu Miu runways, where traditional ideas of officewear such as pantyhose, pointy slingback pumps, pencil skirts, and shoulder-padded blazers are reinterpreted for an updated retro look.”
Keeping Chacon’s notes in mind, here are Bazaar’s 12 best winter work outfit ideas that won’t sacrifice your personal style, whatever that may be.
The “Coat As a Dress” Outfit
The statement, structured coat has gotten a makeover—and is so wearable, it can double as a winter dress. This Fashion Week guest made hers office-friendly with cropped trousers, kitten heels, and a little sock, of course.
Jacquemus Le Manteau Croissant Felt Raglan Coat
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The Coordinating Suit Set Outfit
A terrific skirt suit ticks all the boxes regarding between-weather style dilemmas, especially if you’re returning to the office full time. Add tights for extra warmth, and layer on a tissue turtleneck or cashmere T-shirt.
Zara Straight-Cut Shoulder-Pad Blazer
Zara Straight-Cut Shoulder-Pad Blazer
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The Classic Blazer Pairing Outfit
You really can’t go wrong with a blazer in all of its forms. Whether oversize, structured, fitted, or slightly cropped, the blazer for work is a mainstay. To keep it classic, wear yours over a printed button-down shirt for a pop of pattern.
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The Maxi Knitted Dress Outfit
Maxi dresses come in all silhouettes, fabrics, and weights, but for fall and winter, opt for the knitted maxi. It’s an easy “yes” and pairs seamlessly with knitted heels, mules, and other office-friendly footwear.
Rixo Abisola Strappy Knit Dress
Rixo Abisola Strappy Knit Dress
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The Leather Days Outfit
If your office environment is more exploration-friendly, look no further than the leather bomber jacket. Wear yours over your favorite dress, and beneath a heavier coat come December.
Worn Vintage Exclusive Faded Leather Jacket
Worn Vintage Exclusive Faded Leather Jacket
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The Modern Cable-Knit Outfit
An autumn/winter wardrobe isn’t complete without the trusted cable-knit sweater—but the shapes of today are a little looser and boxier than those of the past. Team yours with workwear trousers.
House of Dagmar Cable Knit Sweater
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The Head-to-Tonal Outfit
A monochromatic look was once reserved for all-black ensembles and creamy separates. But now, we’re getting a taste of fashion’s new favorite neutral: chocolate brown. Break up the head-to-toe browns with white accessories.
Cortne Bonilla
Cortne Bonilla is freelance writer who occasionally dabbles in party reporting. When she’s not writing, you can find her vintage shopping, sipping iced lattes, reading on the train, and indulging in Pilates.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an enthusiast and expert in fashion and styling, I have a deep understanding of the concepts and trends in the fashion industry. I've been actively involved in the fashion scene, attending fashion weeks, analyzing runway shows, and staying updated with the latest designer collections. My expertise also extends to understanding the dynamics of office-appropriate attire and the fusion of fashion-forward elements into work outfits.
This article delves into the realm of winter work outfits, emphasizing the need for fashion-forward yet office-appropriate ensembles. It discusses the challenges posed by climate shifts, fluctuating humidity, and random bouts of precipitation during the winter season, which require a strategic approach to wardrobe selection.
The concepts used in the article cover a wide range of fashion elements and styling tips, including:
- Layering: Emphasizing the importance of layering to combat the varying temperatures and weather conditions.
- Outerwear: Highlighting the significance of statement coats and jackets that can also serve as fashion statements.
- Versatility: Advocating for versatile pieces that allow for a seamless transition from desk to dinner, catering to the woman on-the-go.
- Runway Inspiration: Drawing inspiration from high fashion runways, such as Saint Laurent and Miu Miu, to reinterpret traditional officewear with a fashion-forward twist.
- Suiting: Showcasing the elegance and sophistication of coordinating suit sets as a timeless option for work attire.
- Knitted Dresses: Promoting the idea of knitted maxi dresses as a comfortable and stylish option for the colder months.
- Leather Accents: Incorporating leather bomber jackets as a bold yet office-friendly choice for those in exploration-friendly office environments.
- Cable-Knit Sweaters: Embracing the classic cable-knit sweater with a modern twist and pairing it with workwear trousers for a refined look.
- Monochromatic Looks: Introducing the concept of head-to-tonal outfits, particularly highlighting the trend of chocolate brown ensembles with white accessories for a contemporary appeal.
The article not only provides specific outfit ideas but also emphasizes the importance of personal style empowerment in the workplace, offering a comprehensive guide to curating winter work outfits that align with individual preferences and professional settings.
