10 Versatile Work Outfit Ideas That Will Elevate Your Wardrobe

The work week is full of deadlines, meetings, rushing between calls, and finalizing projects. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, it's ideal to be wearing something that makes you feel confident and powerful, maybe even resulting in a performance boost. And the good news is you don’t have to have an endless amount of clothes to create new and exciting looks—the secret is creating work outfit formulas that work on repeat without you becoming bored of your wardrobe.

Whether it's mixing flats with heels, playing with tailored proportions, or coordinating prints and colors, dressing for the job you want all stems from a wardrobe of versatile outfits. For in the office or working from home, read ahead to discover the 10 best work outfit ideas to take on your busiest days in effortless style.

Blazer, Top, Pants, and Flats

“An oversized blazer and a classic white blouse or T-shirt are simple and sophisticated classics that will make the transition back into the workplace easy," celebrity stylist Sonya Young tells Byrdie. "Don’t be afraid to go for bold designs or colors to spice up your wardrobe and have pieces to go from work to nighttime."

Midi Dress and Boots

If there ever was an outfit formula that would see you through the seasons in the office, it would be the midi dress and boots combination. With a multitude of styles available in an array of prints and colors, you'll never tire of wearing your favorite work dresses with shoes that balance comfort and style.

Trench Coat, Shirt, Pants, and Heels

This work outfit idea involves almost all the essentials in one outfit, making it easy to update and switch things up. With a bold, oversized trench, try a classic shirt tucked into a pair of tailored pants, then complete the outfit with a classic pump for a look that stands the test of time and sees you through the work week with ease.

Statement Blouse, Pants, and Flats

We all embraced dressing from the waist up while staying casual on the bottom during Zoom calls, and there's a way to adapt this when heading back into the office. Transition back into workplace dressing with a statement blouse that makes you stand out from the crowd. It's the “extra” you may be craving, and it becomes the perfect ensemble for heading straight from the office to dinner. (Tip: A clothing rental service is a good resource for unusual pieces that you can wear a few times and then swap for something new.)

Wide-Leg Pants and Pointed Flats

If there's one thing that we are excited for this season, it's to see the return of the wide-leg, tailored trouser. Instantly polishing any work outfit, even in classic shades like beige, black, and white, it can truly turn any simple formula on its head. Team the pants with a modern, structured blazer to create a beautiful silhouette, then finish the look with a pair of pointed flats.

Suiting

“It may seem obvious, or even dated, to wear a suit to the office, but not when you get creative with the idea of suiting," celebrity stylist Allison Berlin explains. "Choosing dark, rich colors or patterns (instead of just black or grey) makes a huge difference, as does layering a polo or turtleneck under a tailored jacket."

Monochromatic Dressing

“Effortlessly chic and relaxed, monochromatic looks are a foolproof uniform," Berlin says. "When wearing this look as separates, you can mix and match the pieces to change up your look and keep things interesting. Add a gold chain necklace or tall boot to pull it all together."

Statement Pants, Tank, and Blazer

Who says that work outfit ideas have to be boring? Inject your personality into your work look by wearing a tailored pair of pants with a fun print. This can look put-together with a simple tank top and blazer, trench coat, or cardigan, and can be worn with heels for team meetings or sneakers for casual Friday—the options really are up to you.

Jumpsuit and Heels

Let’s be frank: There are days when you don’t have time to think (let alone plan out your outfits), and for those moments, one of the best solutions is a jumpsuit. The piece is effective, smart, and can be tailored with a belt or dressed up with a pair of heels or flats—minimal effort to achieve statement dressing.

Matching Set

In the same breath, matching separates in the form of a sweater and knitted skirt or a top and trousers will prepare you for anything without having to think too hard.