I loved working on my smart casual wardrobe post, and have been referring back to it often for fail-proof outfit combos! I got several requests for a workwear version and what pieces to look for when just starting out. The pieces for me are pretty similar, but I made a few updates from last time to suit a business casual dress code.
Below are a few of my most-worn item types from over the years that mix and match really well. I made sure to include affordable and also some premium options for different budgets.
PS – our popular Edited Pieces reversible belts will be restocking (and a mini is coming very soon), so be sure to sign up for email notifications!
Bottoms
After finding the most flattering cuts that work for you, I’d start with the colors black, tan, and a lighter beige or cream (my most worn pant color, actually). If you prefer cooler tones, try grey and navy instead of brown tones. If your office is more smart casual, then you can simply do similar colors in denim.
For me, cropped slim ankle pants used to be my practical default. For a slightly updated look and looser fit, the J.Crew straight or Theory pants linked below are awesome options that also work well with flats!
- Wide leg trousers – Abercrombie pants. These are gorgeous in crepe.
- Slim ankle pants – For no alterations needed on petites, I love the J.Crew Cameron and WHBM Comfort Stretch. I’m also a fan of these viral Zara pants – note: very high rise and I hemmed them.
- Straight leg pants – J.Crew Kate pants are an updated classic.
- Premium pick – Theory pull on crepe pants. These are so good! They hit below my ankles, and fit me similar to the J.Crew Kate but with a half elastic waistband and a lighter weight, drapey crepe. Note, these in 00 fits looser everywhere than J.Crew Cameron in 00P.
Jackets
- Tailored Lightweight Wool blazer – J.Crew (on sale!) in petites and camel, black, navy
- Relaxed Fit blazer – Abercrombie, in petites and 5+ colors
- Sweater blazer – J.Crew (oversized) and J.Crew Factory (petite sizing and closer fit)
- Black + Cream sweater jacket – Express. Love this one so much! XS is a little long in the sleeves but doesn’t bother me.
- Trench coat – J.Crew and J.Crew Factory for a shorter trench in petites. The Drop for a long lightweight trench pictured above (but hemming needed on petites)
- Premium Pick – Theory blazers, such as their open blazer which has a shrunken, petite-friendly fit. I just need to fold the sleeves under an inch or two but you can’t really tell (or, get it shortened).
Tops
Ribbed fitted tops in black and cream are some of my most worn basics. To build your tops collection, I also love blouses with a nice fluid drape, but also some with structure i.e. a little more “crisp” button up shirt. All of these tops are versatile for wearing with denim and other bottoms outside of work, too!
- Fitted Layering Tops + Tanks – Abercrombie tee and tank, and Reformation.
- Draped shell – Ann Taylor, great tank alternative that isn’t fitted to the body and looks a little dressier
- White drape blouse – Ann Taylor, have this in 2 colors
- Blue button-up shirt – Everlane, have this in white + stripes. J.Crew has a blue one with feminine details very similar to the one I own.
- Premium Pick – Sezane striped blouse, drape blouse. Size 0 fits me with longer sleeves
- Premium Pick – MM Lafleur sleeveless top – understated elegance. Have in XS
Shoes
- Nude Pumps – Sam Edelman, Ann Taylor
- 2-Tone Flats – Old Zara are pictured in the collage. Similar: Steve Madden, Asos.
- Loafers – Sam Edelman, love and have black + neutral. So comfy!
- Premium Pick – Sarah Flint pumps and flats (SARAHFLINT-JEAN50 for $50 off first order)
Accessories
- Reversible belts – our Edited Pieces belts were designed to be super versatile!
- Neutral tote – Naghedi, would recommend the Medium size for work.
- Black tote bag – H&M, great value for under $40 with a zipper
- Premium Pick – Goyard bag to add print to solid outfits. Used this as my work tote for years! See my review & comparison post of their styles.
Hi Jean, may I ask for styling advice? What items would you suggest for a (winter) business casual outfit using the Naturalizer Ravi bootie (or does that bootie not work for business casual)? I have an important networking event coming up in a few weeks and need help deciding what to wear. Thank you so much! I love your blog — please keep doing what you’re doing! <3
Hi Karen, of course! The Ravi seems like a pretty classic boot that I don’t see any issues with for business casual! You can wear it with a trouser that hits almost floor length, an ankle pant with an ankle opening wide enough to comfortably fit over the top of the boot, or wear with black tights and a work dress or skirt outfit. You can go a sweater on top or a blouse with a blazer. Hope this helps!
Wonderful; thank you so much, Jean!
I love your posts! Very classic pieces that will become staples in anyone’s wardrobe. Can you tell me when you will be restocking the Edited Pieces reversible belt in the white color? I love my black/cognac one now. Thank you.
Thank you Yuanna, I’m so glad to hear that you’re loving the black / cognac colorway! We’ll be restocking the taupe/ecru colorway in May! If you aren’t already signed up for restock email notifications on the Edited Pieces site, I highly recommend it xx
I discovered this post when trying to rebuild my work wardrobe and it has been so helpful! Would you share how you style your Everlane button up shirts?
Hi Courtney, I’ve linked a couple of posts below that include outfits with the Everlane button ups and you can also visit my page in the LTK app and search “Everlane shirt” to see all of the way’ve I’ve worn it!
5 Classic Work Outfit Ideas
5 Classic Spring Work Outfits
Where I Take Visitors to Eat Around Boston (paired with shorts!)
Love these options for a capsule wardrobe. I am more a dress girl anytime, anyday
Hi Jean! I can’t tell you how helpful this post was! I’m a long-time follower, and whenever I order anything you recommend, I rarely have to return it. I’m in the process of rebuilding my professional wardrobe and my favorite recent find has been the wide-leg trousers from Abercrombie, thanks to your posts. I appreciate all you do for us petite ladies!
Hi Caitlin, I’m so glad you found this helpful! I really appreciate you following along and for taking the time to leave such an encouraging note xx
Great picks. I would love to find loafers with a one to two inch heel. The Linnie is great but I want some height.
I’m on the same search as well! Tried Franco Sartos and a Sam Edelman platform version but they were a little painful so am still on the lookout
I’ve been a longtime fan and love when you do posts like these – SO helpful to have links to apparel that’s currently available 🙂
This might be a better question around the time of the Nordy’s sale, but what are your opinions on Ralph Lauren trench coats? My taste has been informed by your guidance for so long that I’d love to know your thoughts! Thanks for all the hard work Jean <3
Thank you, Sophie! The quality is solid, but they don’t make a wide range of sizing so I think sizes start in xs / 2 petite. My mom has one from the Nordy’s sale a few years back and it’s a classic piece if the sizing works for you.
This is amazing! Can you do one for casual wear too??
I wear mostly smart casual, but I’ll keep your request in mind for more casual wear!