In 2017, I made a conscious decision to stop wearing heels to work and, instead, wear sneakers. As a lawyer at an investment bank at the time, this was definitely a bold decision, but a short two years later, the bank decided to allow sneakers per company policy. As a result of my on-the-ground work fighting for cozy girls worldwide, I became an expert at diverting attention away from my dress-code violation by sticking to a handful of work-appropriate outfit combinations. There are a few things I’ve learned in the process: 1) As long as your outfit looks considered and put-together, no one will blink twice at your sneakers; 2) try to include at least one tailored element to the outfit, whether that be a blazer, tailored pants, or a button-down shirt; and 3) save the neon colorways for another time and place.
Ahead, you’ll find some work outfit inspiration along with a bunch of super-cute sneakers you can definitely get away with wearing. Bookmark this story and refer back when you’re fresh out of ideas. Trust me.
Holy chic! The coordination in this outfit gives me the chills. It’s just so good. Adding a scarf provides a nice touch.
The only pleated pants you’ll see me in past 6 p.m.
These stripes are slightly thicker than usual, which gives the shirt an elevated look.
Poppies and butterflies make the most gorgeous color palette.
Cross trainers are so popular right now.
White button-downs have got to be the most versatile, seasonless shirt. Invest in a crisp shirt with some structure because you’ll be wearing it a lot. Add a thick vest on top for added warmth and polish.
Looking like a tall glass of milk.
The gathered pleats at the sleeve earn this shirt extra credit.
For my neutral girls.
I’m all about maxis lately, but I had never thought to pair them with sneakers until I saw this outfit. I’m truly inspired by this timeless look and can’t wait to try it out.
The dress you wear when you’re asking for a well-earned raise.
These are the ones.
Ladies and gentlemen, her.
There’s nothing quite like a long coat to pull a look all the way together. Add a quality herringbone top and you’re conference room–ready.
The pants you reach for every day. The possibilities are endless.
I love how the ribbing in the torso mimics real ribs.
You can wear these every day.
I haven’t bought a full suit in so long—have you? The result is a bunch of mismatched suiting that probably also works together. Keep your inside layer(s) simple to not overwhelm the look.
This eggplant color is divine.
Pair these with an aquamarine blazer to pick up on the cool tones in the plaid.
A little throwback action.
Nothing says “I have my life together” like a coordinated set. Balance out the type-A vibes with some chill sneakers.
Free-flowing and in control. Shop the matching Twist-Back Top ($125).
This little crossbody is perfect for work.
My favorite white sneakers!
We all have those days when picking an outfit is just not on the list of things you want to think about. That’s where the jumpsuit shines bright. Choose structured jumpsuits like this one, and make them do all the work for you.
Actually obsessed with this jumpsuit.
Add this Missoma chain for an instant pick-me-up.
High-tops to keep the ankles warm.
Over time, I think fashion has gotten a bit less buttoned-up and more relaxed, which I see as a compromise between the suit and the sneakers in all of us. Just look at the balance in this outfit. It looks so polished and fresh at the same time.
Loving this retro-style blazer.
A modern twist on chino pants.
I have a crush on these.
Both sweaters and maxi skirts have inherently elevated vibes, so there’s ample room to dress down the outfit with some sneakers.
This pattern is so playful but serious.
We love a wide collar.
Can’t go wrong with these classics.
Leather pants may or may not currently fly in your place of work, so dress them up with a trench coat and cool sweater just to be safe. Stick to inconspicuous white sneakers on this one.
