How to Elevate Your Workwear Game: From Boardroom to Bar
We all know the feeling—those hectic mornings where you have to rush straight from work to after-hours plans without a moment to spare. The challenge? Finding an outfit that works for both the office and a night out. Thankfully, you don’t have to compromise on style or professionalism. With a few key pieces and styling tricks, you can effortlessly transition from boardroom boss to bar-ready chic. Here’s how to elevate your workwear game and stay polished, no matter the occasion.
1. Start with a Strong Foundation: Tailored Pieces
A well-tailored wardrobe is the cornerstone of any workwear look, but it’s also incredibly versatile when styled right for after-hours. The key is to invest in pieces that flatter your shape and can be easily dressed up or down. Look for tailored trousers, pencil skirts, and blazers that exude professionalism by day but can take on a whole new vibe when paired with the right accessories for the evening.
- Top Picks:
Tailored Trousers: Joseph Wool-Blend Trousers - Net-a-Porter
Blazer: Arket Wool Blend Blazer - Arket
Pencil Skirt: Theory Stretch-Knit Pencil Skirt - MyTheresa
2. The Power of a Statement Blouse
A statement blouse can instantly elevate your workwear look, making it the perfect piece for transitioning to a more relaxed, after-hours vibe. Opt for blouses with interesting details—like puff sleeves, bold prints, or a dramatic bow—that add personality while still being office-appropriate.
How to Wear It: Pair a statement blouse with your tailored trousers or pencil skirt during the day. Come evening, simply swap out your blazer for a leather jacket or wear the blouse untucked for a more relaxed look.
- Top Picks:
Statement Blouse: Reiss High-Neck Printed Blouse - Selfridges
Silk Blouse: Anine Bing Avery Silk Blouse - MyTheresa
3. Midi Dresses: The Perfect Day-to-Night Option
A well-chosen midi dress is your secret weapon for going from desk to dinner with ease. Not only are they stylish and versatile, but midi dresses also strike the perfect balance between professional and playful. Choose a style that works with both heels and flats, and look for designs with interesting details like a wrap silhouette or an eye-catching print.
How to Wear It: For the office, pair your midi dress with a structured blazer and classic loafers. As evening falls, lose the blazer and swap your flats for a pair of statement heels, instantly taking your look from corporate to cocktail-ready.
- Top Picks:
Midi Dress: Reformation Sigmund Dress - Net-a-Porter
Printed Midi Dress: Ganni Floral Midi Dress - MyTheresa
4. Accessories: The Game Changer
Accessories have the power to completely transform your outfit, taking it from polished and professional to fun and flirty in a matter of minutes. Think bold jewelry, oversized sunglasses, or a chic clutch. The beauty of accessories is that they’re easy to switch out during your post-workday routine, making them an essential part of your day-to-night wardrobe.
How to Wear It: Keep your accessories subtle and classic for work—think simple stud earrings and a structured tote bag. For evening, switch to a statement necklace, hoop earrings, or a metallic clutch that adds a little sparkle.
- Top Picks:
Statement Earrings: Missoma Gold Hoop Earrings - Selfridges
Clutch Bag: Bottega Veneta The Pouch - Net-a-Porter
5. The Shoe Swap: Flats to Heels
Shoes can make or break an outfit, and the right pair is essential for transitioning from day to night. If you’re starting the day in flats, be sure to stash a pair of heels in your bag for a quick, easy switch when it’s time to head out. A classic pair of black pumps or strappy sandals can instantly elevate your look and make it feel more evening-appropriate.
How to Wear It: Opt for ballet flats or loafers for work—comfortable yet chic. Then, when it’s time for post-work fun, switch to a sleek pair of pointed-toe heels or strappy sandals.
- Top Picks:
6. The Importance of Layering
Autumn is all about layering, and it’s an easy way to adapt your outfit from day to night. During the workday, you might be wearing a tailored coat or cardigan, but for evening plans, you can swap it for a sleek leather jacket or a cozy oversized knit to create a more casual, cool vibe. The trick is to choose pieces that are easy to take off and put on, depending on the formality of your plans.
How to Wear It: Start your day with a tailored coat for a polished look at the office. As the day transitions to evening, trade in that coat for a more laid-back leather jacket or chunky knit.
- Top Picks:
Leather Jacket: AllSaints Dalby Leather Biker Jacket - Selfridges
Oversized Knit: Joseph Cashmere Sweater - Net-a-Porter
7. Don’t Forget the Power of a Red Lip
Never underestimate the transformative power of a bold red lip! If you’ve kept your makeup minimal during the day, adding a red lip can instantly amp up your look for the evening. It’s one of the easiest and quickest ways to take your outfit from work to wow, no wardrobe change required.
- Top Picks:
Final Thoughts
Transitioning from workwear to evening chic doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. With the right wardrobe staples and a few strategic swaps, you can seamlessly take your look from the boardroom to the bar in no time. Focus on versatile pieces, invest in key accessories, and don’t forget to have a little fun with your after-hours style.
Remember, the key to nailing work-to-evening dressing is versatility. Keep a few essentials in your wardrobe, and you’ll always be ready to take on whatever the day—or night—throws your way.
