Something weird happened over the course of the pandemic amongst office workers. At first, office-based employees were thrilled to get the chance to work from home. Suits and dresses were discarded and working in sportswear or PJs became the norm. Some people threw on a smarter jumper or a shirt for Zoom calls but on the whole, workwear became obsolete. But then something unexpected happened: people started missing the office. Not just the company of their colleagues, the water-cooler chats and the after-work drinks, but also the reason to get dressed in the morning. Smart clothes started to gain their appeal again. So, if you’re headed back to the office after a summer (or longer) of home working, it’s time to get excited about a new workwear wardrobe. But where to begin? From smart separates to comfy (but chic) knitwear pieces, I’ve rounded up the workwear trends to know this season, and a couple of makeup staples to pull your look together. Your joggers deserve a day off…

4 Workwear Trends For A/W 2021

Knitwear

After more than a year of casual dressing, it’s not time to throw give up on comfort altogether. Knitwear and cardigans are on-trend for AW21, from Holiday The Label’s statement designs loved by the likes of Gigi Hadid to Stella McCartney’s Oat Knitted grandad cardigan that is perfect for the office. Throw over some smart trousers and add a statement earring for a more polished look.

Ruffles

After a year of sportswear, a ruffled blouse is the perfect workwear antidote. Opt for a silk ruffled blouse like this Isabel Marant number or check out Ulla Johnson’s new season catwalk collection for gorgeous paisley print ruffled dresses, perfect with boots and a blazer.

Vintage Denim

In line with all things 70s having a moment, vintage denim is top of this season’s lust list, so if jeans get the all-clear with your workwear policy, check out Re/Done’s collection of reworked Levi’s for the ultimate dress-down-Friday look.

Smart Sneakers

Heels? Boots? Brogues? Your feet simply aren’t used to structured shoes anymore. Luckily, smart sneakers are one of autumn’s biggest workwear trends so if your workplace allows casual shoes, invest in a pair of smarter trainers and team your workwear with a comfy shoes as the perfect transitional wardrobe piece. (Your feet can catch up with the workwear reboot next season.) These KHAITE + adidas Originals suede sneakers are the perfect pair.

Workwear Makeup Bag

Now you’ve nailed your workwear wardrobe, update your makeup bag with these staples to smarten up your look on the go.

1. KEVYN AUCOIN | The Etherealist Super Natural Concealer
2. VICTORIA BECKHAM BEAUTY | Posh Lipstick – Girl 
3. PAT MCGRATH LABS | Dark Star Volumizing Mascara 
4. MAC | Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Face Powder 

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