Anyone who has to schlep into an office during winter will know the mental rigmarole that comes with deciding what to wear to work. There’s nothing worse than waking to a blustery morning and rifling through your clothes only to decide you desperately need a wardrobe refresh.

When curating a wardrobe that is both office and cool-weather appropriate, the key is to maintain a laid-back approach to dressing and choose staple pieces that you can easily throw together in a dash. 

Luckily, the modern working capsule no longer resembles boardroom bodycon dresses and fusty ties (hallelujah), but is instead grounded in elevated casualwear. Think crisp white shirts, pumped-up power dresses, classically tailored blazers and luxe leather loafers, all of which can be matched together and worn on rotation.

So, if you’re struggling to curate a wardrobe that is both appropriate for work and the current cold snap, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled the best winter workwear styles that will eliminate all your weekday outfit woes in an instant.

The freshly pressed white shirt is a must-have in any woman’s winter wardrobe. Whether buttoned or worn oversized and open, it adds a quiet sophistication to any look. Invest in a cotton-rich one that will last you for years without yellowing or showing the signs of your rushed 9am espresso spill.

A poplin-button up shirt adds a little drama to your outfit, with voluminous silhouette, all while exuding professionalism. Just pair with wide-waisted trousers, black point flats and a red-stained pout.

With trusty tailoring and razor-sharp suiting, a neat blazer is an obvious choice for any corporate setting, but it can still be sophisticated outside of office hours. The key here is to pay close attention to the silhouettes and the quality of construction. Whatever style you pick, whether it’s oversized, relaxed, pressed or polished, you will soon find the blazer to be a true workhorse.

Another staple in the winter workwear category is the power dress. As the name suggests, it exudes professionalism with a dramatic impact, thanks to its voluminous silhouette, high neck and pumped-up shoulders. This style will eliminate the morning meltdown and help you look and feel great at work. Think big with 80s-inspired padded shoulders to serve the ultimate power move this season. 

Comfortable and chic, you can always rely on a wide-leg trouser for the office. Black is a good option, but look beyond this classic tone and consider charcoal, burgundy and plaid styles. These will co-ordinate well with all your neutral basics, seeing you through career-defining meetings and dinner with ease. At the weekend, style with a sleek white trainer and bomber jacket. 

Once you have your foundation pieces perfected, it’s time to up your footwear game. The best way to look cool yet decidedly work-appropriate is by incorporating a pair of loafers – they’re a classic preppy style. 

And thanks to Prada, who first debuted the coveted shoe in 2020, they’ve had a little upgrade and now reflect our wider relaxation of office life. The modern-day loafer is luxurious, chunky and leather – a far cry from the sensible ones you wore on the school playground. Pick a pair with heavy hardware and lug soles to stomp through your busy commute with ease.

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands