There comes a time in any young professional’s life when duty calls and we finally get to upgrade to a business-oriented wardrobe. Whether your job requires you to come in looking “business” or “business casual,” it’s important to acquire a few fashionable and sustainable staples that you can later mix and match. Today, we’ve rounded up our top pieces to help you create your perfect workwear collection.
Classic Button Up
Price Point: CAD $98
Your staple button up blouse should fit like it was made specifically for you. We love this fitted matte-satin blouse by Babaton because its hemmed in all the right places. The tailored fit on the back follows your contour while allowing room for comfortable movement. Choose from 4 office-approved colours to wear tucked in, under a vest or blazer, or simply leave it as is paired with a slim trouser and your favourite shoes.
The Perfect Blazer
Price Point: CAD $221.53
Ah, the good ol’ blazer—an absolute workwear essential. This year, skip the traditional tight and uncomfortable styles. This slightly oversized yet flattering fit will become the perfect blazer to finish off any look. It’s a little longer and roomier while still maintaining your natural shape so you can go from “dressy meeting outfit” to “casual-denim Friday” without worrying too much about dressing up or down. Stick to a solid colour like black, grey, or blue because they will add a classic professionalism to almost any outfit.
Blouse
Price Point: CAD $83.06
A good ruffle or peplum style blouse is necessary because it gives movement to an otherwise dull outfit. When you know you want to pull off comfortable plain trousers for the day, pair them with a flattering top in order to add style. Choose either a peplum or a ruffle style according to your taste or body type. Even a subtle ruffle at the shoulders will give the appearance of a smaller waist, while the peplum waist like this wrap blouse can amplify the hips and give extra shape to your figure. Either way, you can’t go wrong if you feel confident in your choice!
Basic Slim Trousers
Price Point: CAD $89.90
A plain slim fit is necessary because it pairs well with anything. Invest in a pair like these in 2 or 3 colours to rotate through a comfortable pair of pants all week. They’re simple, stretchy, and the bottom of the legs work with any shoe you choose.
Patterned Trousers
Price Point: CAD $128
Want to pull off a simple tunic in the office? Make sure you have high-waist patterned trousers like these striped Wilfred pants. The stripes and belt will add flair while maintaining an overall professionalism. Plus, accentuate your waist with the high rise cut, and add a heel to elongate your legs. The perfect mix of class and minimalism.
The Midi
Price Point: CAD $128
For those days when all you need is a little switch up to make an impression in the office. Whichever you decide to add to your wardrobe, a midi skirt or dress (or both!) is the perfect staple to give “oomph” when you have an important work event—or if you simply prefer the look over pants. We love the current trend of midis paired with knee high boots, especially because we don’t have to compromise warmth.
The Perfect Coat
Price Point: CAD $279.99
If you live in a colder climate, don’t forget the perfect coat to tie your look together. The trench coat will always be a professional outfit staple—and we absolutely love this wool twist on the classic trench. A long coat like this one from Mango comes in 3 colours, and will keep you warm while accentuating your figure by adding a flattering touch with its belt. If you prefer the relaxed fit, you have the option to remove the belt. Now that’s a good investment.
Classic loafers
Price Point: USD $185
Every woman needs a break from heels sometimes (or everyday), so we recommend having a classic pair of loafers in your closet at all times. We love the oxblood colour of these Everlane Penny Loafers because it adds a subtle contrast to your outfit but is muted enough to still be versatile. You can’t go wrong with a sleek leather loafer—it’s a smart shoe.
Point Toe Shoe
Price Point: CAD $98.95
Another versatile piece is the pointed toe because it adds elegance to your outfit. Seriously, every woman wore pumps to the royal wedding last year. If you can only have one, you’ll have to consider your options. Most people either love wearing heels or prefer to rock a flat shoe. Either way, you have the option to give your outfit a boost with a pointed toe flat or with a pair of fierce pumps. We love a basic nude pump like this one by Karl Lagerfeld because it will never go out of style.
High Heel Leather Boots
CAD $199
A heeled boot in your colour of choice is a great option when you want to pull together a plain look. You guys know we’re huge advocates of ankle boots, sock boots, printed boots…we love all boots. If you’re all about the dresses and skirts this year, these leather Zara boots are the addition you need. The knee-high boot trend definitely makes us want to add more midi skirts to our workwear pieces.
Structured Purse
Price Point: CAD $89.99
For a lot of women, a good purse can really make the entire outfit. Your office staple bag should be basic enough to wear everyday, and big enough to fit your laptop or tablet. We love a textured bag like this croc-effect business tote from Mango. It’s black but offers a subtle contrast to a simple outfit and provides a long strap so it's easy wear. Make sure your bag has a zipper compartment for work valuables and has sturdy straps to last through everyday use.
