5 Ways to Wear a Shirt for the Office

First, one for all the smarter dressers out there. Whether you’re bound by a strict dress code or you just enjoy the confidence bestowed by a good piece of tailoring (you and our editorial team both), a suit-and-shirt combo really is a fail-safe option. As for how to give it a point of difference? Lean into the texture and visual interest of layering by pulling a V-neck knit over your shirt, letting the collar peek out the top. During the transitional season, you might want to opt for a sweater vest to avoid overheating under a blazer – but come winter, a preppy V-neck cable knit is an equally good option.

Black, grey and beige are the eternal colours of office attire, but you don’t need us to tell you that they can feel a little samey. If you’re wondering how else to switch up your work wardrobe while still reading professional, consider navy. Rendered in silk, cotton or denim, it’s a flattering middle ground between darker neutrals and the attention-grabbing brighter colours that don’t always feel appropriate for work. It pairs easily with white trousers to further lift the look – just add your choice of accessories, whether that’s a classic pair of black leather flats or a slightly more daring animal-print option (very AW26).

Ever wished you could wear your pyjamas to work? Well, if you style them right... This season’s silk co-ords are certainly nightwear-inspired, but paired with a tailored blazer, pointed heels and a good bag, they’re a chic and (most importantly) comfortable alternative to prim-and-proper two-pieces. Their secret power lies in the fact that they match – just like any other co-ord, they create an instant ‘look’ on busy mornings. If you’re not keen on the idea of going full pyjama, try just a silk shirt paired with trousers in a matching hue for the same matchy-matchy vibe – just without the elasticated waistband.

A striped shirt is one of those time-tested classics that you likely already have in your wardrobe – but it can be hard to know how to style it without looking too corporate. If your workplace vetoes denim, lean into the officewear aesthetic with a pair of pinstripe tailored trousers. The unexpected playfulness of pattern-on-pattern dressing lifts the look into carefully considered territory. Take it a step further by sizing up in the shirt for a loose-fitting look, or experimenting with coloured versions for added personality.

Not all of us have to wear tailoring to the office – but this look is a great example that your usual weekend favourites can still be smartened up for the work week. Borrow from the matchy-matchy formula once again by choosing a denim shirt and jeans in the same wash, and layer a leather or suede coat over the top for a contrast in texture. A low heel adds a little lift – and don’t forget your tried-and-trusted work bag to tie everything together.