Today's definition of workwear applies to clothes that look professional yet convey a sense of comfort and practical ease. Stiff pencil skirts or button-down shirts feel outdated after months of staying home and working remotely. Instead, wear-everywhere sweaters [1], relaxed shirts [2], and polished midi dresses [3] are in favour.
So with that in mind, we went looking for timeless pieces that will be the foundation of your working wardrobe [4]. Zara [5] has some affordable and on-trend options you'll love adding to your cart.
A Reworked Top: Satin Effect Shirt
Not only do we love the deep hue of this Satin Effect Shirt [7] ($36), but the relaxed silhouette also makes it covetable. Pair it with tailored trousers to make a sleek impression or blue jeans for casual days.
A Soft Hue: Soft Feel Knit Sweater
This Soft Feel Knit Sweater [8] ($46) features a relaxed fit and a front-jewel button closure that gives it an air of easy elegance. Pair it with tailored trousers for a powerful work appearance, or with a miniskirt for a hot date.
A Classic Cold-Weather Staple: Purl Knit Sweater
This Purl Knit Sweater [9] ($46) offers plenty of coverage and long cuffed sleeves to keep you cosy as you brave the cold snaps. The colour is easy to pair with black leather pants or your go-to jeans.
Not Your Average White Top: Ruched Satin Effect Shirt
This Ruched Satin Effect Shirt [10] ($50) is a fun twist on a typical white button-down, and it packs just as much day-to-night versatility. We like the ruched detail and easygoing fit.
A Wear-Everywhere Layer: Soft Overshirt
You get both a top and a jacket when you buy this Soft Overshirt [11] ($70). You can style it over a sweater for extra warmth, or button it up and wear it as a top.
A Classic Blazer: Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer
This Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer [12] ($119) will make you feel in charge, thanks to the structured silhouette and imposing presence. We love it paired with a matching skirt for a standout suit, or with tailored trousers or jeans depending on the occasion.
A Compliment-Worthy Piece: Animal Print Jacquard Knit Vest
Whether you style it on its own over jeans or layer this Animal Print Jacquard Knit Vest [13] ($40) over a blouse, it will attract compliments wherever you go. The wild animal print gives it visual interest.
A Pop of Sunshine: Floral Jacquard Knit Cardigan
This Floral Jacquard Knit Cardigan [14] ($60) is a potent mood booster. How can you (or anyone around) not smile when you slip into it?
A Swirly Print: Jacquard Knit Top
This Jacquard Knit Top [15] ($30) is not only designed in a fun colour palette, but the easygoing silhouette makes it super covetable. We like it paired with brown pants for a cool visual effect.
For Day-to-Night Versatility: Full Length Faux the '90s Leather Pants
These glossy Full Length Faux the '90s Leather Pants [16] ($50) will amp up any look, whether you pair them with an asymmetric top, a knit sweater, or a fitted blouse. They are professional enough for daytime work meetings, as well as after-dark parties.
A Cool Print: Printed Short Dress
We love a printed dress, so this Printed Short Dress [17] ($50) immediately caught our attention. It has a relaxed yet put-together air that makes it a winner in our books.
All Things Floral: Geometric Knit Jacquard Sweater
This Geometric Knit Jacquard Sweater [18] ($50) is one cool way to do floral prints. We love the visual effect created by the flower motifs, as well as the overall shape and relaxed fit.
An Eye-catching Print: Plaid Knit Jacket
The pearl buttons of this Plaid Knit Jacket [19] ($50) are easily our favourite detail. They add a touch of elegance, while the puff sleeves and round neck dial up the style.
A Walk on the Wild Side: Animal Print Cardigan
This edgy Animal Print Cardigan [20] ($60) will sure make for a memorable impression. We like the easygoing silhouette and striking print.
A Classic Silhouette: Gold Button Knit Dress
This Gold Button Knit Dress [21] ($50) has a timeless quality that'll make it one you'll turn to season after season. Pair it with tall heeled boots for a polished and preppy look.