I loved working on my smart casual wardrobe post, and have been referring back to it often for fail-proof outfit combos! I got several requests for a workwear version and what pieces to look for when just starting out. The pieces for me are pretty similar, but I made a few updates from last time to suit a business casual dress code.
Below are a few of my most-worn item types from over the years that mix and match really well. I made sure to include affordable and also some premium options for different budgets!
Bottoms
After finding the most flattering cuts that work for your body type, I’d personally start with the colors black, tan, and a lighter beige or cream (my most worn pant color, actually). If you prefer cooler tones, try grey and navy instead of brown tones. If your office is more smart casual, then you can simply do similar colors in denim, just making sure there’s no rips or distressing.
For me, cropped ankle cut pants like J.Crew Cameron used to be my default since they’re slim fit and don’t drag on the ground. For a slightly looser, more updated cut, the newer J.Crew Kate or the Theory pants linked below are awesome options that also work well with flats!
- Wide leg trousers – Abercrombie pants. Also available in crepe.
- Slim ankle pants – For no alterations needed on petites, I love the J.Crew Cameron and WHBM Comfort Stretch. I’m also a fan of these viral Zara pants – note a very high rise and I hemmed them.
- Straight leg pants – J.Crew Kate pants
- Premium pick – Theory pull on crepe pants. These are so good! They hit below my ankles, and fit me similar to the J.Crew Kate but with a half elastic waistband and a lighter weight, drapey crepe. Note, these in 00 fits looser everywhere than J.Crew Cameron in 00P.
Jackets
- Tailored Lightweight Wool blazer – J.Crew, in petites and camel, black, navy
- Relaxed Fit blazer – Abercrombie, in petites and 5+ colors
- Sweater blazer – J.Crew and J.Crew Factory (petite sizing)
- Black + Cream sweater jacket – Express, love this one so much! XS is a little long on me in the sleeves but doesn’t bother me.
- Trench coat – J.Crew and J.Crew Factory (petite sizing), The Drop for a long trench (hemming needed on petites)
- Premium Pick – Theory blazers, such as their crepe blazer and shorter open blazers.
Tops
Ribbed fitted tops in black and cream are some of my most worn basics. They look sleek worn alone with, or layered under a blazer or cardigan. To build your tops collection, I love blouses with a nice fluid drape, but also some with structure i.e. a little more “crisp” button up shirt. All of these tops are versatile for wearing with denim and other bottoms outside of work, too!
- Fitted Layering Tops + Tanks – Abercrombie tee and tank, and Reformation.
- Draped shell – Ann Taylor, great tank alternative that isn’t fitted to the body and looks a little dressier
- Draped blouse – Ann Taylor, have this in 2 colors
- Button-up shirt – Everlane, have this in white and stripes
- Premium Pick – Sezane striped blouse, drape blouse. Size 0 fits me with longer sleeves
- Premium Pick – MM Lafleur sleeveless top – understated elegance. Have in XS
Shoes
- Nude Pumps – Sam Edelman, Ann Taylor
- 2- Tone Flats – Steve Madden, Asos.
- Loafers – Sam Edelman, love and have black + neutral. So comfy!
- Premium Pick – Sarah Flint pumps and flats (SARAHFLINT-JEAN50 for $50 off first order)
Accessories
- Neutral tote – Naghedi, would recommend the Medium size for work.
- Black tote bag – H&M, great value for under $40 with a zipper
- Premium Pick – Goyard bag to add print to solid outfits. Used this as my work tote for years! See my review & comparison post of their styles.
