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5 Office-Friendly Outfit Ideas That Actually Aren’t Boring

Summer is here, which means if you just graduated, it may be time to start your first post-college job, and if you’re still a student, it’s time for summer jobs and internships! This is a time to step out into your career and network, and be one step closer to adulthood. Whether you are working in a classy corporate workplace or at a Gen Z-filled startup, figuring out what to wear to the office can be a struggle. There are so many opinions on what’s considered appropriate to wear to work, and Gen Z has redefined business casual attire in the office.

No longer are work outfits composed of a simple blazer and slacks. Nowadays, there are so many ways to make a fashion statement in the workroom which gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “dress to impress.” But how do you choose an outfit that not only looks good but also keeps the office dress code in mind? Well, I’ve composed a list of suggestions that will make you stand out in team meetings. So whether you’re working abroad in London or roaming the streets of New York City, here are some office-friendly outfit ideas for all the corporate baddies!

Linen Pants
office friendly outfit ideas linen pants
H&M

If you’re like me and work in the city, you know that traveling in humidity can be exhausting. That’s why linen is the perfect fabric for the summer, because it’s breathable and allows air to move around freely. Linen pants like these Tapered Linen Blend Pants from H&M ($35) are super lightweight and comfortable! Pair them with a cute blouse, or double up and wear a linen top, too!

Matching Sets

If there is one thing I learned from watching Selling Sunset, it’s that matching sets are perfect for the office. They come in multiple colors and styles, and are very easy to style! @_perolikegaby styles this stunning set with white heels and a matching purse. Try going for something lightweight and flowy, like this wide leg matching set from Amazon ($35)!

Blue Button-Up

The blue button shirt is a timeless classic that’s perfect for the office! It’s very versatile, too! It can be worn as a jacket or as a dress shirt. @cathrync created a cute, casual look with a striped blue button up. This oversized boyfriend shirt from Old Navy ($37) also comes in pink and white, which makes it easier to pair with neutral colors!

Dresses

You can never go wrong with wearing a dress to work! On days I’m struggling creating an outfit, I like to opt for a fun dress and pair it with cute accessories. @margkr shows how she elevated this dress from Amazon ($34) with a belt, purse and jewelry. You could also do a casual look with some white trainers, like this pair from J. Crew ($59)!

Pops of Color

Getting tired of wearing neutral clothing, like black or tan? Try adding pops of colors! Bright colors like pink, purple, and orange are great to incorporate into your office attire. Or, try a fun look like @dsjcox did. She paired these green high waisted pants from Zara ($46) with a purple and green patterned blouse. Here’s a tip: Use a color wheel to pair complementary colors together, like pink and green, or monochromatic colors, like various shades of blue!

Camille Birdsong is a Her Campus National Writer for the Style section. She writes weekly articles about all things fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and decor. Beyond Her Campus, Camille works as an Associate Producer for CNN Max. She previously worked at NBC News, where she produced heartwarming stories for the TODAY Show audience and viewers nationwide. Camille graduated in 2022 with a B.A. in Journalism and a minor in Leadership Studies at Hampton University. She was the Director and Line Producer of her university’s newscast and has interned at NBC Nightly News, the TODAY Show and the Weekend TODAY Show. Camille is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and is passionate about sharing community-driven stories. In her downtime, she loves creating content, visiting new cafes, and obsessing over reality dating shows.