What I Wear to Work When I’m Over Business Casual

Photo Credit:@lemanm

There’s something about “business casual” that feels… aggressively beige. Somewhere between the scratchy blazers and awkward shoe choices, I hit my limit. One morning, standing in front of my closet with a half-drunk coffee and zero motivation, I realized: I needed work outfits that didn’t feel like work.

So now, when I get dressed for the office (or my desk at home), I stick to a new rule: no boring outfits, no sacrificing comfort. Here’s what I reach for when I want to feel pulled together, stylish, and like myself—without looking like I’m playing dress-up in someone else’s cubicle wardrobe.

And if you’re building your own work wardrobe? Don’t forget to grab the Fall Wardrobe Essentials Checklist — it’s the easiest way to figure out what you actually need to make getting dressed a no-brainer.

When I Want to Look Sharp Without a Blazer

A structured knit top + wide-leg trousers.

Reyen Top
ASTR the Label

$98

Salome Wide Leg Jeans

Nili Lotan

Simon Wash

$480.00

When I Have Zoom Calls All Day

Textured Button Down Shirt Wide Leg Pants

$58.99

Gold Plated Knot Earrings

$12.99

When I’m On the Go (But Still Need to Look Polished)

Cropped jacket + ankle pants + flats I can actually walk in.

By Marianna Pauchet Reversible Faux Sherpa Jacket
L'Academie

$298

High Waisted Pants
Theory

$295

The formula that says “I’m booked and busy, but comfy.”

When It’s Cold and I Would Rather Sleep In

Soft turtleneck + midi skirt + boots.

Roosevelt Turtleneck Tee

LA Made

$73

Straight Skirt
Norma Kamali

$225

Margo Boot
Sam Edelman

$170

When I Want to Wear Jeans Without Looking Under-Dressed

Dark-wash straight jeans + button-down shirt + loafer mules.

Office-appropriate without feeling stiff.

High Waist Straight Leg Jeans

Nordstrom

Elliot Wash

$129.00

Oversize Button-Up Shirt

MANGO

$69.99

The Lug Loafer

Rothy's

$229.00

When I’m Feeling Bold

Printed blouse + tailored trousers + slick ponytail.

A little drama, a lot of style.

The Katy Blouse
L'Academie

$198

Zoey Pants
Lovers and Friends

$158

When I’m This Close to Calling in Sick

Oversized cardigan + leggings-that-pass-as-pants + a tote bag.

Lazy, but not obvious about it.

Rib Knit Cardigan
REMAIN

$280

Perfect Control Faux Leather Legging
Commando

$128

It’s 2025—why are we still dressing like it’s 2003? If you’re tired of the same bland office staples, start with a few outfit formulas that actually work for your lifestyle. Business casual doesn’t have to be boring, and your wardrobe should reflect who you are, not just where you work.

Planning your fall wardrobe? Don’t miss theFall Wardrobe Checklist—it’s the go-to list for layering like a pro without overthinking your outfits

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