5 workwear trends we can’t wait to wear to the office

As we enjoy more time spent with colleagues in the office and catching up with workplace besties over in-person coffee dates, dressing to feel our best is something many of us have looked forward to. But refreshing your work wardrobe need not mean sacrificing comfort (ok, maybe just a little) as this season is all about hardworking staples, relaxed, breathable fabrics and effortless fits.

Read on for easy office essentials to help you transition from sweatpants to promotion-worthy looks in no time.

Workhorse shirts

With a nod to comfy-meets-sensibility, a classic shirt is an elevated piece you’ll wear again and again. From billowy sleeves, broderie anglaise to metallic hardware, look for eye-catching details that give a modern twist to this workwear staple. For guys, choose prints to add an edge to your look. For greatest versitility, go for neutral colours and refreshing hues like mint green, lolly pink, soft caramel, crisp white or baby blue. To shop, head into Uniqlo, Connor, Tarocash, Industrie, Imaje or yd.

Image soure: Country Road

Image source: Witchery

Image source: Country Road

Woven footwear

While intricate woven designs were traditionally saved for beach-going summer days, in the right footwear style and neutral tone, they can also be worn from desk to date. (Bonus: They’re unbelievably breathable.) Along with mules (our personal favourite to add a little height whilst still being comfy), you’ll find laid-back woven details on women's closed-toe slides, men's loafers and even sneakers from Novo, Spendless Shoes or Williams. Smarten by the boho-inspired vibe by throwing a blazer over a breezy summer dress or pair with a crisp shirt and sharp trouser.

Image source: Jo Mercer

Image source: Jo Mercer

Easy breezy neutrals

The easiest way to put together a chic summer office outfit? Choose neutrals. For her, opt for breezy cuts crafted from luxurious linen, silk or cotton. Think: high-waisted Bermuda shorts, oversized shirting, and effortless maxi dresses. If in doubt, add a crisp blazer to dial up the workwear factor. Head to Witchery, Cotton On or Sheike for a smorgasbord of options. For him, neat chinos, knitted short-sleeved polos and tailored jackets all work a treat. Check out Connor, Imaje or Tarocash.

Image source: Aje

Image source: Kookai

Image source: @witcheryfashion

Image source: @countryroad

Suits and sets

A timeless trend, co-ordinated ensembles are a great investment because you can wear the pieces together or as separates. This season, we’re moving away from the pyjama-inspired styles popular throughout last winter and towards snappy blazers paired back with matching trousers, longer shorts or slim skirts. For maximum wear, opt for failsafe neutrals. Keen to stand out? A few brands are doing smart sets in fun prints and sorbet tones. Head to Witchery, Sheike, Decjuba, Connor or Tarocash.

Image source: Connor

Image credit: @witcheryfashion

Image source: @countryroad

Textured totes

If we’ve learnt anything in the last year, it’s that it pays to be prepared! We're loving versatile (and roomy!) carry-alls. Perfectly designed to hold everything from a laptop to your gym gear or beach towel, the season’s newest styles come in styles blending workplace-appropriate leather with lightweight linen, open-weave macrame and even paper straw. The oversized proportions lend polish to the most basic of office outfits with zero extra effort. Options abound at Forever New, Collete or Sportsgirl.

Image source: Aje