Top 10 work wear wardrobe must-haves

by Taryn Davies | 30 October 2013

Look stylish at work with these must-haves

Dressing for work can sometimes be a struggle, you want to inject your style whilst still of course being professional, so here we have the ten must have items for any work wear wardrobe.

These pieces will stand as the basis for any good work wear wardrobe and you’ll be able to add and change just a few items as we drift through the seasons.

So, to celebrate 10 years of FemaleFirst we are bringing you the ten items you need to fill your working wardrobe.

Black blazer – this will pull any look together, and of course keep the winter chill at bay.
Structured tote bag – a slouchy bag is best kept for weekend looks, if you’re wearing a structured tote bag, in black, navy, grey or tan, it will add further sophistication to the look and more often than not it’ll be big enough to carry all of your essentials around.
White shirt – this is a must for any wardrobe. Of course you’ll wear it with trousers, skirts and much more, but you can also layer it under dresses and jumpers. It might take time to find the perfect fit and style, but once you do, buy a couple because you’ll wear them at least once a week.
Pencil dress – For days when you want to impress that little bit more. Of course keep it knee length, add tights if you like too. A thin patent belt will help to define the waist too.
Cropped trousers – These are much more flattering than a full length wide-leg trouser, and a lot more stylish too. Wear them with heels to lengthen the legs or ballet flats for a Parisian twist on your outfit.
Court shoe – Of course, the basis for any work wear wardrobe is a comfortable court shoe. Black is the obvious option, but why not try a deep oxblood colour too. Nude courts will lengthen any leg too.
Simple ballet flat – For those days when you have so much running round to do. They don’t have to be fancy, just sturdy and comfortable.
Printed blouse – Make a statement in a printed blouse, it doesn’t have to be outlandish, a floral or geometric print will work, and in muted colours too if you’re not wanting to attract too much attention. Leopard print will always be chic with an all-black look too though.
Pencil skirt – Again keep it knee length and you can add tights if you like. A simple pencil skirt can be worn many ways and you’ll find that you’ll love it with your white shirt as much as your printed blouse.
Leather top – Leather has once again become a high fashion trend this season, and it’s something that is never going to date. A simple leather shell shaped top or peplum top will inject some of your own style into your work wear wardrobe.