oversized Habitual trousers
oversized Habitual trousers
Balenciaga BB pumps
oversized Habitual trousers
Celine belt bag
oversized Habitual trousers
oversized Habitual trousers

A lot of retailers would have us believe that things like tailored shorts and denim can be appropriate for work, but the reality is, in many businesses (like mine), that just won’t fly. I’ll admit, I used to think workwear was totally boring and didn’t invest much thought in it, sticking to a colorless palette and very basic pieces. But over the years, I’ve learned it is possible to have a little fun and push the boundaries without being inappropriate. Take these pants, for example: on paper, they’re a high-waisted, pleated gray pant, a classic office staple. But the oversized proportions make them a real statement piece, especially when paired with simple pieces like this black top and white blazer. Mixing one or two pieces into your regular rotation can easily spice things up when you’re in a rut. Here are a few more ideas to make a statement with your work outfits without raising eyebrows:

  • Add one bright piece to your look. The key here is not going crazy. A fun shoe or a bright blazer or skirt are a perfect way to make an eye-catching outfit if you keep the rest of your look neutral.
  • Work the strong-shouldered blazer. One of my favorite work pieces. My closet is literally filled with them. Keep the the rest of your look sleek and let the blazer do the talking.
  • Employ an extraordinary shirtdress. A shirtdress is the working woman’s best friend. On hectic mornings, they require very little thought process and they’re easily layered with cardigans and blazers. Find one with an eye-catching print and you’ve got yourself a winner!
  • Invest in a really great pump with a little bit of embellishment. I’ve had these Prada pumps for ages, and they used to be my go-to fancy work shoe when I wanted to add something a little special to a look, like the bow peeping out from underneath a wide-legged black pant. It’s taken me years to find a suitable replacement, but I finally settled upon these Balenciagas and, believe me, they were worth every penny.

If you want more ideas, you can view all of my work looks here. How do you feel about workwear? How do you have fun without going too far?

Quee Bee Designs necklace
Zara blazer (similar)
H&M top
Habitual pants via Rent the Runway Unlimited (get 50% off your first month with code EPENDER50)
Balenciaga pumps
Celine bag

Shop the Look

11 comments

Reply

Love this workwear outfit!! Great tips!

Jennifer
Effortlessly Sophisticated

Reply

I am in love with those pants and I need a pair in my life asap!
Dora
https://www.adropofindigo.com

Reply

I love the trousers, they are amazing .
I like to make a statement in work wear with a cool accessory, edgy shoes or something vintage.

Reply

Those trousers and your bold accessories do take boring work wear and turn it on it’s head! I feel like even in the most casual of offices I still wouldn’t wear shorts, but these pants I’d wear in a heartbeat (even though I’d probably be swallowed up by them I’m so short).
Chic on the Cheap

Reply

Oooh, sister- I LOVE these pants! You look so chic and cool!

-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge

Reply

looking gorgeous
The Glossychic
Wonder Cottage

Reply

Great tips!

Reply

Great tips babe and I absolutely adore these cullotes 🙂 xx

Reply

These tips are so useful! I always go for the first and the last tip. A pop of color never hurt anyone (I hope so!). You look amazing in this outfit! It definitely suits you.

xo, Andreea | https://www.budistyle.com/en/

Reply

Those pants are so COOL!! A totally different take on how to elevate a typical office look!
xx jen
http://lilthoughtswithjen.com/

Reply

Loving this edgy look dear, especially the pants and blazer combo! The heels really wrapped up the outfit.

Jessica | notjessfashion.com

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