Versatility is one of the key criteria that I have for my wardrobe and that means I need to be able to wear pretty much everything to work and on the weekend. Obviously there are going to be some omissions because hey, a black tie dress might be a bit hard to deal with when at the photocopier or grabbing coffee, but most things should be able to be transformed from nine-to-five to relaxation mode by simple switching up what you pair it with. I’ve identified a few key pieces that I know are made for both office wear and off duty style.
Dressy flats
A pair of simple, classic flats a la the pair I have on below are a cinch to go from the office to the weekend. A slingback, a ballet flat or pointed style are all great options.
On Duty: Wear it with cropped trousers, a skirt or a midi dress.
Off Duty: Pair it with jeans or a skirt worked back with a tee.
A white tee
It’s a rare few places or occasions that can’t be worked back with a white tee. A handy staple for any wardrobe, it can be appropriate from nine-to-five to a relaxing Saturday by switching up what you pair it with.
On Duty: Wear it with a blazer on top, underneath a dress, or with a midi skirt.
Off Duty: Pop it on under a slip dress, with your favourite jeans or a wrap skirt or shorts.
A blazer
I’ve often spoken of my love of a great blazer and consider it one of my can’t-live-without items. And it’s primarily because I can wear a blazer to a work function one minute to a casual lunch on the weekend the next and it still works. Keep it classic with black, grey, navy or white or if you’re feeling adventurous embrace something bold and bright or something that features a pattern.
On Duty: What can’t it work with? Everything from tailored pants, to a wrap dress and a skirt and cami can be paired with a blazer.
Off Duty: Wear it with jeans and a white tee for a classic, always on-trend look.
A roomy bag
If you’re prone to carrying half your office/life around with you then a great, roomy bag is a must. I often like to get a bag that’s got a bit of structure, in a classic colour such as tan or black for work as I know that I can always extend its wear to the weekend.
On Duty: Get a size that can fit your laptop and essentials.
Off Duty: A great carryall can be used to get you through a busy day of running errands where you might need to carry a million things with you.
A wrap dress
This eternal classic is always a good idea especially for a day at the office or a relaxing morning coffee with friends. Your only issue will be trying to stop at just one.
On Duty: Wear a wrap dress with heels and a blazer for an effortless take on corporate dressing.
Off Duty: Paired with sneakers or sandals and a simple crossbody bag make an ideal look for relaxing.
Wide leg trousers
Wide leg pants aren’t as scary to wear as they sometimes might seem (check out my tips for how to style them here) and are so easy to change up according to what day of the week it is.
On Duty: A blouse with heels and you’re set.
Off Duty: Wear it with a tee or a cami and pair with great sandals.
A black skirt
Consider a black skirt a close cousin of the little black dress — it can be styled in myriad ways with so many different pieces. It’s wearable and versatile which makes it the ideal transition piece to take you from the office to the weekend.
On Duty: Wear it with a button down shirt and a cami for a professional look that’s ultra chic.
Off Duty: When paired with sneakers and a tee this look is polished yet made for an easy breezy day.
