“Workwear” has ceased to have one meaning, or much meaning at all, in 2026. Roughly six years ago – aka pre-pandemic, when many of us would do five days a week in the office without batting an eyelid – it might have conjured images of a jewel-toned “power dress” on The Apprentice, Rachel Zane’s impeccable pencil skirts in Suits, or even Miranda Hobbes’s whip-smart pinstriped suiting in the OG Sex and the City series. Then came working-from-home – cue top-half dressing for camera-on moments – followed by a swift back-to-the-office movement that rolled back those stretch-waistband privileges. To say this has left the concept of a “work outfit” in a state of disarray is something of an understatement. Workwear has officially had an identity crisis – and, honestly, who can blame it?
In the summer months, curating an office-appropriate wardrobe becomes an even harder task. The conundrums that loom yearly remain: the sweatbox commute versus Baltic aircon, the “am I appropriate?” panic when wearing smaller separates and shorter hemlines, and the age-old question of “can I wear sandals to work?” But fear not, with the right know-how, you’ll be entering the office in summer with ease.
If you’re back to commuting three or four days out of five, you will most likely need a fully functioning office wardrobe, even if your dress code falls under the annoyingly vague “business casual”. This means a focus on tailoring, elegant separates, refined footwear and, crucially, a work bag that can comfortably fit all your tech.
For anyone who’s hybrid, it’s more a question of curating a capsule of hardworking pieces that prioritise comfort and versatility. (Once you have the foundational garments perfected, of course, you can layer more statement items on top.) A pair of barrel-legged trousers, for example, is the kind of piece you can build a look around. Add a cotton shirt, blazer and loafers, say, and you’ve got a practical yet put-together look for a morning of meetings. If the next day you’re working from your kitchen table or a coffee shop, however, you could just as easily wear the same bottom half with a baggy T-shirt and Birkenstocks.
Knowing where to find these kinds of staples is half the battle, which is where our guide to the best workwear brands comes in handy. Ranging from the best high-street brands to contemporary labels that are excellent for investments, a few choice purchases will help you redefine your workwear.
Shop Vogue’s edit of the best workwear brands to shop now…
East London-based brand Aligne is known for its minimalist aesthetic and viral capsule wardrobe pieces, such as the famous “Gabriella” dress and “Leo” waistcoat. Its pieces make great foundations for a summer in the city outfit. Opt for pastel hues to bring some brightness to your rotation.
