Fashion wok

It’s a bit dramatic to say you “have nothing to wear.” You may have some clothes to wear. It’s just that you want to avoid putting together an outfit. You’re not alone if you find yourself struggling to get dressed.

Jordan Stolch, MIKADO’s stylist, tells InStyle that she has recently been swamped with new clients. Clients need clarification about how to dress for work.

Stolch describes the new office dress code as “much more comfortable and polished.” Sheath dresses, pencil skirts, heels of 4 inches, and overly tailored blazers have all but disappeared. The focus is now on comfort while maintaining a polished look. She suggests that to achieve this look; you should focus on less structured, deconstructed pieces, which pay homage to what one would wear to work, but with “a practicality meets functionality twist.”

However, not all employees are demanding drastic changes to the dress code. According to Zippia ‘s state research survey, 46% think that jeans should be allowed at work all the time, while 51% say they should be worn only occasionally. Only 1% of respondents want a formal business dress code.

In 2023, the choice of what to wear at work (mostly) will be primarily based on personal taste. Wearing something comfy and looking glam is possible. If you need help finding the perfect balance, we ask stylists and fashion specialists for their tips.

Select an ensemble that sparks joy

You’re even struggling to be excited about moving from your home office to your cubicle. The Celebrity stylist Cindy Conroy recommends channeling the inner Marie Kondo when getting dressed to spark some joy.

She tells InStyle that fashion is about having fun, and office wear can (and should!) reflect this. Wear things that make you happy, such as a colorful blazer with wide-leg jeans or a playful pattern skirt set. Cutout tops add a saucy touch.

Trousers are comfortable and professional

According to fashion stylist Abby Young, CEO of Abby Young Style, Abby Young, nothing says casual business more than wide-leg, loose-fitting trousers. She prefers to wear long pants with platform shoes, “if you work in an environment that allows it,” or pointed-toe ankle booties for pants that reach just below the floor.

Statement Pieces Can Spark Conversations

Conroy tells InStyle that a good outfit can be a great icebreaker.

Try a black-and-white striped outfit or a 3D flower blossom blouse with muted pants. These are conversation starters and will help you make friends when you return to the office.

Comfort Is Key

Home is where the heart lies, but you keep your favorite things, like fluffy slippers, a comfy couch, and snacks. Fashion designer Ramy Brook says comfort is the key to making leaving your home for an office more accessible. She also states three pillars of office dressing for 2023: fun, fashion, and comfort.

I often wear a dress or jumpsuit. “A one-and-done piece that looks great and can be easily accessorized, whether with fun jewelry or a gold belt. I also like to wear flats and heels depending on the occasion.”

Loafers and ballet flats are the “It” footwear options

Regarding footwear, stylists predict that ballet flats and loafers will be famous in 2023. Young, who told InStyle that pointed slingbacks, kitten heels, and sharp ballet flats “go with everything,” prefers the latter. Tara West, a fashion stylist, lifestyle blog, and podcaster, is anticipating a shoe boom.

West informs us via email that designers from Milan to New York City are bringing us new updates on this classic, which is a notably conservative piece. Think chunky platforms updated, low-profile shoes, and bright colors such as fuchsia and emerald.

Maintain a neutral layer on your desk

Brook suggests storing a jacket behind your chair to combat a cold work environment. Brook recommends stashing a coat in your chair to fight a challenging working environment. Choose a neutral-colored jacket or something denim to layer over different outfits.

Leggings are now considered pants

Blair Waldorf must be shaking her head in disbelief. Indeed, Queen B didn’t acknowledge that sweats and anything with a stretchy waistline isn’t simply a piece of clothing. They’re signs of comfort and support. Ariane Goldman, HATCH, agrees that leggings can be worn for more than just leisure.

Leggings are evolving into pant-like styles thanks to flared, cropped hems. Goldman told InStyle to “think less Soulcycle and more business casual with flats and button-downs.” We’re just beginning to discover how chic elasticized trousers can be.

Jeans are generally acceptable, too

Allison Koehler, a Brooklyn-based stylist, says it’s okay to keep your favorite denim bottoms (office dress codes permitting). She says that a good wardrobe starts with a pair of denim.

Koehler says, “What I see from my clients is that they want to wear real clothing instead of sweats or athleisure.” “My advice? “Now is the perfect time to invest in some nice jeans. My favorites are Blaze Milano and Moist Vintage.”

Add More Color

Personal stylist Allie McKenna reminds us that pastels are having a moment, even if they are muted. “Don’t be scared to play with colors,” she says.

McKenna says, “We can lose ourselves sometimes in our work, and the color is an easy way to show a bit of personality while dressing appropriately for work.” If you are hesitant to try it, McKenna suggests that you start small by adding a pop of color to your shoes, a scarf, or a belt.

Break Out Your Favorite Blazer

Blazers can be worn from brunch to a boardroom and still look great. This is because it has a classic look and versatility.

Isabella Sun, the founder of Short Stories in San Francisco, says that a structured blazer is a wardrobe staple for corporate life. It’s comfortable, on-trend, and can elevate any casual look. We recommend this formula to clients who are tired of making decisions. A semi-casual blazer can be worn over a contoured t-shirt and versatile pants that you can wear at home or in the office.