If your occupation calls for business professional attire, you might find it tricky to strike the perfect balance between business appropriate and corporate chic. Since we spend a majority of our lives at work, it’s important to find the little things to look forward to…including what we wear to work! I know a super chic and fun outfit gets me excited and helps to put me in a good mindset to start the day.
If you’re looking to build your business professional wardrobe, here are the best retailers to shop from:
Best Budget
H&M is a one-stop-shop for all your fashion needs and they have a whole line dedicated to the professional working woman. In stores, you will normally find these styles merchandised together and they offer everything from blouses to trousers, skirts, and matching sets. They are also almost always well-stocked online so you’re bound to find a style in your size. This pistachio green blazer is a standout and it comes with matching cropped slacks.
Runner Up: Best Budget
Express has branched away from workwear as they now offer a variety of trendy styles for every occasion (all under $200). However, they still carry plenty of workwear options as well as on-trend pieces that would be HR-approved. You can also find plenty of shoes and accessories that will jazz up a more monochromatic business look. We love their selection of women’s suits – especially this skirt suit set that features a cropped blazer and wrap pencil skirt with buttons (how chic!). Each piece can be worn together or separately and the skirt comes in multiple colorways.
Best for Trendy Pieces
If you’re looking for trendy pieces at an affordable price, online retailer ASOS is your answer. The site boasts an impressively large database of brands and styles, but you’ll find your workwear needs in the Suits and Tailoring category. ASOS Design carries items that are usually in the $20-$80 price range, but you’ll find a variety of fast fashion to high street and contemporary designer brands on ASOS. Strut your stuff in this luxe rose blush satin set (pair with a cami!).
Special mention: ZARA for statement work wear pieces
Special mention: Mango for trendy and minimalist pieces
Best for Tailored Pieces
Moving up the price range, we have J. Crew, the all-American specialty retailer. We love the tailoring and fit of their work wear pieces and most of their styles are extremely business-appropriate, which is great for those who work in more traditional or conservative environments that require a stricter dress code. They also have an impressive size range. This autumn tweed dress is perfect to ring in the fall in style.
Best for Classic Workwear
Banana Republic carries many classic silhouettes that are trans-seasonal and going to last a long time. Their styles are also very versatile so you can dress them up or down. With fall coming soon, we’re loving this puff-sleeve sweater top in a neutral color that can be paired with just about anything. It’s an easy fit and extremely warm and comfortable.
Best for Sustainable Workwear
Eileen Fisher is known for their ethical and sustainable fashion initiatives and modern essentials, offering the staples that you need to build your business wardrobe. We love that you can search by featured fabric making it easier to shop based on comfort and ethical standards. This quality organic cotton poplin circle skirt is super versatile and suitable for work paired with a simple white blouse and kitten heels.
Best for Casual Workwear
Loft is a great option for busy young professionals and mothers looking for affordable to mid-priced pieces that are comfortable and business appropriate but casual enough to take from day to night activities. Loft’s pieces feature youthful patterns, florals, and bohemian influences that pair well with minimalist pieces. Our pick is this gorgeous shell top with subtle ruffles and a high neck that brings an element of professionalism to the outfit with a pretty berry floral pattern. Pair with this everyday V-neck cardigan (on sale now and comes in 3 colorways).
Best Higher-End
Higher-end contemporary brand, Theory, offers silhouettes in luxe fabrications and minimalist styles. If you’re a capsule wardrobe, neutral palette kind of girl then you’ll love their collections of professional work wear. This utility wool dress is the perfect fall dress, featuring structured seams and pocket flaps for some stylish detailing. The wide neck allows this dress to be worn with a crisp white shirt for the perfect corporate chic look. To add modesty and warmth, pair with your favorite tights.
Best Overall
The best overall brand for all your business wardrobe needs goes to Ann Taylor. They have a dedicated work category that carries all your business attire essentials along with collections such as Casual Friday and Business Formal so you’ll never miss a beat for all work-related events and occasions. One of our favorite picks is this pair of cropped wide-leg trousers that are a classic and elegant staple while still hitting a few key trends right now, such as the relaxed fit and subtle tailoring. We also love that it comes in 8 colorways!
More Work Wear Inspiration Coming Your Way…