Words by Sophia Miller
With corporate dress codes to navigate, deciding what to wear to work is no walk in the park. Not only do outfits have to look professional (read: no mini hemlines, plunging necklines or strappy sandals), but they’ll need to withstand unpredictable weather, commutes and the potential of chilly office air-con. Enter: tailoring. From double-breasted blazers to shirt dresses, these are the timeless pieces so chic you’ll want to wear them off the clock, too.
The cornerstone of any work wardrobe, a good shirt will last you your whole career. If you’re wary of looking too buttoned-up, may we suggest opting for a print? Whether it’s stripes, checks or something more abstract – see Victoria Beckham’s illustrated silk number – a patterned shirt will bring a little cool to your corporate capsule. Just unfasten a few buttons, and you’ll be ready to go from desk to dinner.
This year’s take on power dressing has a decidedly retro spin. As the businesswomen of the ’80s and ’90s will attest, there’s nothing quite like the confidence that a sharp-shouldered suit inspires – and a pair of heels only takes it up a notch. Choose a double-breasted combo in the colour of the season – hot-chocolate brown – for maximum fashion points.
More casual office dress codes call for a lightweight knit and ballet flats – it’s a pairing worth its weight in gold during tricky between-seasons weather. Among the stars of 2025? A chic oatmeal sweater vest from our very own Harrods cashmere collection. Just throw on a blazer before your next meeting.
If you’re looking for an alternative to trousers, consider a shirt dress layered with a classic trench. It’s the platonic ideal of an autumn outfit: covered up enough for chilly mornings, but still making the most of those precious few opportunities for bare legs. And appropriate for the office, to boot.
Alaïa, Miu Miu, McQueen and more define a mood of confident sophistication for the new season.
These are the editor-approved cheat codes for effective in-between dressing.
