The Great Office Dress Code Debate: Are We Ready for Corporate?

The term 'corporate dress code' conjures up such drab images of plain, grey suits and briefcases, doesn't it? However, that perception simply isn't true! When you master corporate chic, you can create polished, professional looks that are also uniquely you to achieve remarkable style and CEO-level confidence. 

In this guide, we cover how you can put together smart, businesslike outfits that fit your corporate workplace dress code without sacrificing pops of personality.

A corporate dress code is a workplace’s rules and guidelines for how employees should dress. Some workplaces are lovely and helpful, stating outright which clothes are and aren’t acceptable in their employee handbook. However, other workplaces are a bit more vague and will mention one of the following dress codes:

• Casual

• Smart casual

• Business casual

• Business professional

But what do they mean?

What is Business Professional Attire?

When we think of ‘corporate’ dress, we typically think of business professional attire: tailoring, smart shoes like heels or brogues, shirts or blouses, and the classic business suit.

Still smart, but not quite as smart as a business professional style. Think a shirt and tailored trousers or a skirt. A midi dress with tights and smart flats. Or a smart jumper or roll-neck top with a blazer.

Smart casual dress codes are perhaps the trickiest, and it doesn’t help that the definition can change from city to city. Generally, though, choose smart clothes that feel comfortable and fit your style. Chinos, polo shirts, and well-fitted knitwear work well for men, and smart tops with fitted trousers and dresses are perfect for women. 

This style allows you to lean harder into certain aesthetics that you love, provided it’s smart and work-appropriate. Try putting together a boho work look or a vintage corporate style. Our smart casual dress code guide can help you nail it.

‘Casual’ is the easiest corporate dress code, as it essentially means you can wear whatever you like. Within reason, of course. Maybe don’t go as far as loungewear, but simple jeans and a t-shirt are perfect. 

Well-fitting clothes help you feel ever so put together and chic. When a blazer fits you like a glove, or a dress is superbly structured, you’ll nail that air of professionalism. Just use our size guide to make sure you choose the right fit. 

Remember, shirt seams should sit on the shoulder bones, and sleeves should reach the wrist. Trousers should have a slight break (crease) before reaching the shoe; however, this crease should be very subtle. 

Businesslike attire doesn’t have to mean black, white and grey. Why not brighten up the working day by wearing your favourite hue? 

If you’re looking for a boost of boardroom confidence, red is known to make us feel fierce and bold. Or, maybe you’d like to cheer the office up? Yellow will bring the sunshine to the workplace on even the dreariest day. Our guide to colourful mood boosting can help you choose exactly the right colour for the energy you’d like to create in the office.

Patterns are also a great way to bring personality to the classic business suit. Try a floral suit for flower power dressing or a checked look for preppy style. 

You can also choose a patterned shirt or blouse for a touch of fun peeking through a plainer suit. Think fierce florals bursting through a black blazer, or pretty polka dots for that funky, retro touch.

Dresses are a fantastic choice for a corporate look. We advise a midi dress that hits the knees or just below. A longer maxi dress might seem more like a party style, and a dress that’s shorter than knee length might be a little risque.

Adding an accessory or two to your corporate look is a perfect way to add character. We love a funky brooch against your blazer, a lovely necklace against your blouse, or a chic scarf (which can also disguise a less corporate neckline).

How can you maintain corporate chic while keeping cool in the heat and staying snug on the chilly days?

How to Style Office Wear in Spring and Summer

Many corporate workplaces are kind enough to relax dress codes slightly on hot days. Even if they don’t, a lightweight short-sleeve blouse with slacks and slip-on shoes works perfectly as a business casual look, while summer dresses with good coverage are perfect for smart casual and casual offices.

How to Style Office Wear in Autumn

Autumn is the layering season, ideal for popping a blazer over any and every corporate outfit as needed. Warmer tailoring fabrics, like moleskin and tweed, are also wonderful for the autumnal aesthetic in the office.