Back to work outfits: 8 style staples that mean business

The changing season calls for a streamlined wardrobe, with a focus on a high-achieving, low-maintenance workwear. During these transitional months, with unpredictable weather and shifting needs, choose versatile pieces that look great and impact how you feel.

Lisa Ferrie, Partner, Buyer and Design Manager, says: ‘Autumn in the city is a study in modern elegance – where sculptural tailoring meets effortless layering and urban sophistication. It’s about dressing with intention, comfort, and architectural grace – one considered layer at a time.’ These are the hero pieces that work year-round but really shine come autumn.

A trouser suit in a shade you love is workwear gold. It requires minimum effort and will work perfectly as separates, too. Team the jacket with black trousers or jeans (depending on your office dress code), or style up a classic white T-shirt with the tailored trousers.

A versatile dress is autumn 2025’s secret weapon. Look for styles that are understated yet feminine and can be worn from desk to dinner. To maximise wear, opt for something that falls below the knee and avoid narrow cuts. Layer with a neat crew neck sweater for chilly days.

Action-packed schedules demand workwear that’s smart but not too put-together; an effortless aesthetic is the sweet spot. A pair of trousers with a relaxed fit is key to achieving this. Seek out classic shades and durable fabrics that are built to last.

In autum, skirts in weightier fabrics, such as leather, come into their own. Indulge your creative side with colour choices and silhouettes that take your fancy, and team with a blazer and tank top. Then, when Saturday comes, add a t-shirt and trainers for a laid-back look. 

If fuss-free mornings are your goal, simplicity is everything. This means finding the workwear classics that suit – and sticking to them. Introducing earrings will add interest to any outfit. Invest in a selection of jewellery styles and rotate, according to your mood. 

 

A perennial solution for work days, a crisp shirt will never go out of style. Opt for neutral colours, stripes or subtle prints that you can mix, match and wear with pieces that you already own. Add trousers, shorts or jeans – and style with the French half-tuck for extra fashion points.

Trainers are no longer taboo in many offices; a pair of unbranded white or patterned sneakers lend trouser suits or printed dresses an effortless edge. Mary Janes or ballet pumps are your slip-on saviours for days when you don’t know if it’ll rain or shine.

Trends may come and go, but the loafer never fails to be simultaneously chic and comfortable. Whether your look is preppy, playful or polished, loafers will reliably pull your look together. Jump on 2025’s with-socks styling, or go classic with bare ankles.

Add real fashion heft to any outfit with an expertly crafted bag from the likes of Mulberry, Vivienne Westwood or Radley. British craftsmanship at its best, the brands’ designs can be paired with a chic suit as easily as they can with a rugby shirt and jeans.