What work clothes to wear in 2022
Now it’s time, or almost time to meet your colleagues in real life and strut the office corridors and boardrooms, what are you going wear?
What has changed since the Pandemic in terms of workwear?
Well, quite a lot actually. This was the topic on my podcast yesterday, I covered the evolution of dress codes at work, what to wear now and where to shop. You can listen to the episode here or anywhere you prefer to get your podcast.
Pre-pandemic we were moving towards a more smart/casual workplace with even old Corporate stalwarts like Goldman Sachs changing the dress code to smart/casual. The pandemic has accelerated that. People do not want to compromise on comfort after spending months at home.
Just this week on the new series of The Apprentice, Karren Brady was the belle of the boardroom wearing a bubblegum pink jumpsuit. This would have been unheard of just a few years ago when it was considered frivolous to wear anything other than a black, grey or navy suit to be taken seriously at work.
Now we find ourselves in a completely different landscape and the Pandemic has helped to shift mindsets. Usually conservative bosses have been forced to realise that it doesn’t matter if you’re not wearing a suit and are embracing the popular smart/casual approach.
What this does mean is you can’ty rely on the old ‘uniform’ of throwing on a suit. Now it is acceptable to bring some personality and self expression to work, this means having. wardrobe full of smart separates instead. That requires a bit more creativity and can be overwhelming.
We’ve been enjoying a considerably reduced morning routine over the past months, a plus point of lockdown in my view. Now it’s important to make sure you’ve got a few ‘hero’ pieces that mean you can quickly and easily get ready in the morning.
While it’s clear dress codes have relaxed massively, it’s still essential to look professional at work. It really is part of your tool kit for success as well as showing you mean business and you take your job seriously, Smart/casual can be tricky to master with many people getting it wrong and ending up looking too casual or too formal.
There is a sweet spot in the middle. By adding a few key pieces you will get it spot on and hopefully enjoy dressing in a more creative and interesting way. It also means the lines have now blurred; your work wardrobe blends into your weekend wardrobe which definitely has its benefits. It means you can get more wear from everything and have a more sustainable wardrobe with less clothes but more ‘cost-per-wear’, this definitely feels like we have moved on.
So what do need in your working wardrobe for 2022?
Silhouettes right now are slouchy, relaxed and oversized. It’s all about oversized blazers, shirt dresses, oversized coats and wide leg trousers. Statement blouses are a big trend too and are great at helping you stand out at work.
I’ve created a free guide with my SIX essential building block pieces that will ensure you have the right thing to wear at work. Grab the guide here.
If you get just one thing this season for your work wardrobe, I highly recommend its a blazer. Preferably an oversized one. Jackets/blazers, and coats come to think of it, really make a hugely positive impact in your wardrobe. One you’ve added this piece, you’ve created an outfit and look pulled together.
Here are my workwear choices for 2022.
Coats and jackets for the return to the office.
This oversized checked coat from &Other Stories is beautiful and very chic. I love the mix of brown and blue in the check. I am so tempted to pop this straight in my basket.
In fact, &Other Stories is smashing it with coats and jackets right now. Find the full selection here and see my picks below.
Oversized herringbone blazer
Grey blazer would go with everything
I love this with jeans and boots or tailored trousers
Neutral colours are everywhere this season.
Dresses for work and the boardroom 2022
As I’ve mentioned on the podcast and blog before, fitted tailored dresses in the boardroom are a bit 2019. Far better to update your look with shirt dresses or loose fitting (comfy!) dresses.
I like Kitri for slightly edgy options for a more relaxed workplace or try Reiss who are always good at doing polished dresses.
Striking - great colours and shape
A wool dress is great for now with over the knee boots underneath
Wide leg work trousers 2022 style
The trouser style of 2022 is slouchy or wide leg. Me&Em are known for their excellent trousers.
Prince of Wales check wide trousers
Barrel leg could be something to try to update your look
Work blouses for 2022
Make sure a couple of your blouses at least are a bit statement to add interest and personality. Look for puff sleeves or pussy bow styles.
Try Sezanne for pretty blouses. I love this lace blouse worn with the black trousers above.
Footwear choices for work in 2022
Crisp white trainers are an option for footwear with the trousers above if your office allows it. Long boots are great for now, or go for sensible but ‘on-trend’ block heels like these from Chanel. You can find many copies on the high street, I found a great block heel pair last year in M&S.
These classics from Russel & Bromley will last years.
That’s it for now. Listen to my latest podcast episode for more ideas here.
If you would like help from me with your wardrobe this year, I have a few slots left for Spring. It is filling up faster than ever this year so don’t leave it too late to contact me! Book a wardrobe edit session and personal shopping day to transform your style in 2022.