When it comes to suiting up for your nine-to-five, you’ve been trained to reach for the button-downs and slacks without hesitation. But girlll, that’s just not the way to go about it. You theoretically *should* be dressing for the job you want. Here at Brit + Co HQ, we’re all about non-boring boardroom style essentials that steer clear of conventional workplace dress codes. No matter what career field you aspire to work in, we’ve got you covered with 15 girlboss-approved outfit ideas that are guaranteed to turn some heads, no matter what your profession.
1. Model:Free People The Abby Suit ($350): A hectic sched filled to the brim with back-to-back go-sees and modeling gigs… sound familiar? When you’re not glamming it up for the camera, keep things on the DL with this retro printed co-ord that will never steer you wrong — just add towering platforms for instant style cred. BIG shocker: You’ve already got that model-off-duty look down pat. We wonder why?
2. Publicist: J.Crew Collection Cigarette Pant in Heavy Shantung ($198): You’ve got places to go, people to meet, and brands to promote. AKA, you’ve always got to be on your A++ game. A little swagger a la these metallic cigarette pants — and BOOM — you’re suddenly Jenna Lyon’s savvy spectacle-wearing twin. Plus, you’ll be cocktail-ready for any and all post-work networking events in your iCal.
3. Capitol Hill: Reformation Nothing Top ($98): You’ve worked in politics long enough to know your words cannot be censored. (Pssst: And neither can your style, for that matter.) Team this sheer embroidered button-down with a smart blazer, a streamlined pencil skirt, and power pumps for a non-traditional Capitol Hill-bound look that results in absolutely #noregrets.
4. DJ: Bing Bang Baller Money Sign Studs ($48): Look at you making it rain dolla dolla bills with your sick mixing skillz! As a DJ, you pretty much have free reign to wear whatever you want — think: holographic windbreakers, fishnet tops, and leather-feel everything. Proceed to bring in the moolah with these “rich girl” studs that call to mind Sir Mix-a-Lot. Bling, bling.
5. Photographer: Everlane The Silk Wide Leg Pant ($125): Whether you’re working on location or editing photos from the comfort of your favorite coffee shop, non-fussy separates that can be styled with ease are a no-brainer. Toss these striped wide-leg silk pants (they feel like pajama bottoms!) on with a mock-neck tank and contemporary loafers for a jam-packed day of shooting.
6. On Air Personality: ASOS Clean Obi Wrap Dress With V Front ($68): This just in: You’re actually an IRL Kelly Ripa or Oprah Winfrey. Being on-air all day err’day means you’re accustomed to looking your best (blame it on bad camera lighting, y’all). Not only does this blush pink wrap dress scream morning show-ready, but it’ll make you look profesh AF when on-air. The ultra-flattering wrap silhouette and knee-grazing length don’t hurt either.
7. CEO: French Connection Manzoni 3D Floral Lace Pencil Skirt ($188): Who runs this world? That would be you, Miss CEO. Strike the perfect balance between young working professional and modern-day boss lady with this stunning blue 3D lace pencil skirt that’s the definition of fierce. Just add a collared shirt, a top-handle satchel, and ankle-strap steppers FTW. Kicking butt and taking names has never looked so good, if we do say so ourselves.
8. Accountant: Banana Republic Tassel Loafers ($128): Make crunching numbers look good — like exceptionally good — with these menswear-inspired tassel loafers that promise to work their magic around the clock. Need we say more?
9. Makeup Artist: Zara Frill and Patches Dress ($40): It doesn’t matter if you’re dishing advice from behind the beauty counter, working fashion week, or penning your own beauty column, you’re all about bringing the drama (with a capital D). Just as you would opt for hot pink eyeliner without a second thought, this scene-stealing dress isn’t even up for debate. Between the kitschy patches, all over frills and voluminous shoulders, it’ll only be a matter of time before you’re taking charge.
10. Curator or Museum Director: Ted Baker Sippah Scallop Trim Cropped Top ($165): While a certain level of professionalism is required in the art world, a little personal flair goes a long way, baby. (You’re surrounded by some of the world’s most renowned masterpieces, for Pete’s sake!) Proceed to team this muted pink scallop trim top with printed palazzo pants (or paint splatter jeans) and artful Alexander Calder-inspired earrings for maximum impact.
11. Wall Street Boss Lady: H&M Sleeveless Jumpsuit ($70): Wall Street, watch out! This HBIC right here is putting snoozy corporate jobs back on the radar, one jumpsuit at a time. Ditch your run-of-the-mill uniform consisting of billowy blouses and pencil skirts for this envelope-pushing tuxedo-inspired jumpsuit that takes business professional to new heights. DO drape a white blazer over your shoulders for a ceaselessly chic getup.
12. Stylist: Topshop Belted Peg Trousers ($68): Comfort is key here, especially since there’s no such thing as a typical nine-to-five work day. Between picking up samples, previewing upcoming collections, and meeting with clients, you’re constantly on your feet. Introducing the laid-back-chic peg trousers (in a brilliant cobalt blue hue, no less) you’ll reach for without fail. Tuck in a pajama-style blouse and slip into some sensible trainers for around-the-clock wearability.
13. Fashion Editor: Meg Shops Slip Dress ($229): You? A fashion editor? We would’ve never guessed. It’s true when they say that a fashion insider can be spotted at least a mile away — you’ve just got “the lewk.” Demonstrate your FROW style sensibilities with this abstract slip dress that’s practically made for layering over a thin turtleneck. All that’s missing are some killer hoops, a pair of vampy steppers, and whatever It bag of the moment is currently making rounds.
14. Art Director: Marimekko Tea Noppa Shirt ($95): You’re a visual enthusiast at heart with a penchant for minimalist design and good aesthetics. Take a “less is more” approach to your corporate dress code with this checkerboard print t-shirt and some accompanying paper bag waist trousers for a getup that reads head honcho. Chelsea boots may or may not be in order.
15. Fashion Designer: Pixie Market Red Stripe Front Tie Shirt ($106): When you’re not working on sketches in your at-home studio, you’re off meeting with clients, sourcing fabrics, and conducting final model fittings. This avant-garde take on your everyday work shirt (THAT tie-front twist!) will be right up your alley. You’ll find a way to team it alongside everything in your wardrobe, including but not limited to your beloved frayed hem jeans and backless mules.
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