Brave the Chill: 12 Winter Work Outfits That Keep Your Style Hot
Winter is fast approaching, so it’s the perfect time to ask yourself: What are some winter work outfits that are stylish and appropriate for the office? Winter work outfits can be difficult to come up with, whether you are back at the office or have barely left. The season is characterized by climate changes, fluctuating humidity, and unpredictable bouts of rain. This requires some wardrobe experimentation. It’s a great time to experiment with layers, outerwear, and exaggerated sizes.
For the modern woman, a work outfit is a versatile and flexible piece that can be worn from the office to supper. Sissy, a Los Angeles-based stylist and writer of The Sort, an online style magazine, believes that it is important to feel confident at work. If expressing your style in the workplace is acceptable, doesn’t harm you, and makes your day better, then go for it. She tells Bazaar that if your personal style is to blend-in, if it helps you to stay focused at work or draw a more clear line between work and life balance, then that’s also valid.
Labels like Nili Lotan Toteme and Bevza offer stylish, high-quality items that are both well-designed and pared-back. See tailored pants, elegant wool coats, and matching suit sets. If you want to take a more fashion-forward approach then Chacon suggests looking at the runways. “Look at Saint Laurent runways and Miu Miu runways where traditional officewear like pantyhose and pointy slingback shoes, pencil skirts, and shoulder-padded jackets are reinterpreted in a retro-modern look.” Here are Bazaar’s 12 best winter outfit ideas, based on Chacon’s advice. These outfits won’t compromise your individual style.
“The Coat as a Dress” Outfit
JEREMY MOLLER//GETTY IMAGES
This structured statement coat is now more wearable and can be worn as a dress in winter. Fashion Week guest turned hers into an office-friendly piece with cropped pants, kitten heels, and, of course, a little sock.
The Coordinating Suit Set
JEREMY MOELLER//GETTY IMAGES
If you are returning to work full-time, a great skirt suit will solve all your style problems. Layer on tights to add extra warmth and a cashmere or tissue turtleneck T-shirt.
The Classic Blazer Pairing Outfit
DANIEL ZUCHNIK//GETTY IMAGES
In all its forms, a blazer is a wardrobe staple. The blazer is essential for the workplace, whether it’s oversized, fitted, structured or slightly cropped. Wear yours with a button-down printed shirt to add a splash of pattern.
Maxi Knitted Dress Outfit
EDWARD BERTHELOT//GETTY IMAGES
Knitted maxis are available in many styles, weights, and fabrics. For fall and winter, choose a knitted maxi. This is a simple “yes”, and it pairs well with mules, knitted heels, and other office-friendly shoes.
The Leather Days Outfit
EDWARD BERTHELOT//GETTY IMAGES
If your office environment is more exploration-friendly, look no further than the leather bomber jacket. Wear it over your favorite dress and under a heavier winter coat.
The Modern Cable-Knit Outfit
EDWARD BERTHELOT//GETTY IMAGES
The cable knit sweater is a staple in any autumn/winter wardrobe. But the newer styles are more boxy and loose. Pair it with trousers from your workwear collection.
The Head-to Tonal Outfit
EDWARD BERTHELOT//GETTY IMAGES
Monochromatic looks were once reserved for black ensembles or cream separates. Now, fashion’s favorite neutral is chocolate brown. White accessories can break up the browns.
The Pleated Skirt Outfit
EDWARD BERTHELOT//GETTY IMAGES
A pleated skirt is a must-have in our book. Particularly one with sharp knife pleats or a private schoolgirl lean. From Banana Republic and Miu Miu, designers have created a range of Gossip Girl-inspired looks.
The Modern Corporate Outfit
EDWARD BERTHELOT//GETTY IMAGES
Who said corporate girls couldn’t dress well? Women from all over the globe showcase their corporate lives on TikTok while still being fashion-loving. Instead of the classic pencil skirt, opt for a leather version.
The Graphic Motif Outfit
CLAUDIO LAVENIA//GETTY IMAGES
A graphic long-sleeved t-shirt is perfect for casual Fridays or days at the office. It exudes an effortless, cool vibe when paired with low-rise trousers and the right accessories.
The Checking It Out Outfit
STREETSTYLESHOOTERS//GETTY IMAGES
Do you remember those days at work when the temperature on your desk was colder than outside? We all do–all too well. A lightweight quilted jacket will still look chic if you have to wear it indoors. Add a checked mid-length skirt to your wardrobe for a seasonal classic.
The Cinched Suit Outfit
EDWARD BERTHELOT//GETTY IMAGES
The suit has evolved a lot. Consider the Sex and the City Pilot, where every character wore a boxy, ill-fitting blazer and oversized pants. Blazers can now be made to look so good, they could even surpass the little black dresses.