Style Guide: How to Style Women’s Work Clothes

Curated by those in the know, watch our expert guide to the work clothes worth investing in. 

Mastering your style starts with knowing who you are – and how you want to feel. So, to help you discover your personal style, uncover modern wardrobe essentials and decipher this season’s trends, David Jones has enlisted the expert eyes of nine stylish industry insiders.

For this instalment of Style Guide, we’re calling on the fashionable eye of Bridget Veals, head of women’s fashion, footwear and accessories at David Jones. From the pretty to the practical, she’s decoding the work clothes, styles and trends you can’t go without in your work wardrobe this year.


Essential styles for your work commute

Simplify your transition back to the office with practical work clothes for your daily commute. A roomy tote bag is a great place to start. Be prepared for whatever your workday may entail with sturdy styles in durable fabrications. If your commute involves walking, comfort is key. Ballet flats are enjoying a welcome revival this season – equal parts stylish and comfortable, these make an excellent commute-friendly option. Then, complete the look with a light jacket in a neutral colour – a reliable year-round must-have in any workwear rotation. 

COUNTRY ROAD

Relaxed Button Trench

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CLARKS

Women’s Canebay Plain Ballet Flat Shoes

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BLUNT

Lilac Metro UV Umbrella

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MICHAEL KORS

Chantal Medium Satchel

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Inspire versatility with workwear separates

Sharp separates form the basis of any great workwear wardrobe. Take the guesswork out of getting ready on weekday mornings with a mix of trend-defying styles that lend themselves to versatile dressing. Trusty tailoring is a great place to build your capsule wardrobe from. These can be dressed down by pairing with more casual pieces in your workwear rotation, or worn together for a look that feels instantly polished and put together. If you’re typically colour-shy, this can also be a great way to inject some new hues into your 9–5 wardrobe. A bright blazer or pair of trousers will instantly brighten and lift your everyday neutrals.

DAVID JONES

Crepe Long Sleeve Blazer

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TRENERY

Denim Wide Leg Pant

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SABA

Conte Rib Tee

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SABA

Daria Longline Blazer

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Take your look from desk to dinner

Make the transition from boardroom to bar a breeze with multitasking dresses. Relaxed tailored silhouettes nail the brief for both corporate occasions and after-work affairs. In the office, opt for simple, polished accessories – think sleek black pumps and a handy tote. Then, after 5pm, make the switch to edgier styles like sheer stockings and chunky loafers. 

DAVID LAWRENCE

Florentine Cotton Dress

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TOMMY HILFIGER

Regular Viscose Shirt Knee Dress

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EDWARD MELLER

WHISPER110 Single Strap Platform Sandal

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MIMCO

Jett Mini Crossbody Bag

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Shop Bridget’s picks for your work wardrobe instore and online now.