Business Professional Attire for Women— 4 Office Outfit Ideas
Business professional attire has an unfortunate reputation of being boring, especially for women. While your work outfits should convey that you are poised and put-together, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your personality. Though men may find comfort in the monotony and simplicity of corporate attire, fashion-loving ladies often find it impedes their personal style.
While a business professional dress code may restrict your outfit options a bit, don’t let it put limitations on your personal style! With these four outfit ideas, you’ll look like a Boss Lady who means business! Not only will you stand out in the sea of boring black and navy suits, you’ll exude competence and confidence.
If you’re tired of trousers, it’s time to try these four elevated looks. They’re polished, professional and full of personality!
What is Business Professional Attire for Women?
Business professional is the most conservative office dress code. It may also be referred to as business formal or corporate attire. If you’re unsure if something is business professional or not, ask yourself, “Could I wear this to an interview?”
Traditionally, business professional attire for women consists of business suits, knee length skirts and formal tops. While some offices require a neutral color palette, most allow for a bit of color these days. We suggest sticking to minimal jewelry and closed-toe footwear to ensure you stay office-appropriate.
Every office is different. Remember that old saying, dress for the job you want not the job you have? If you’re unsure of what is and isn’t acceptable in your place of work, a good rule of thumb is to observe the attire of your supervisors and women who are higher rank to you in your office. Their outfits offer the best barometer of your dress code. When in doubt, ask your work friend!
4 Feminine Business Professional Outfit Ideas
Modern Meets Minimalist
Black and white doesn’t necessarily equal blah. This boldly printed Nicole Miller dress packs a punch while remaining professional. Instead of a traditional-cut blazer, add interest to your look by opting for a longer, slightly boyfriendy variation. This Wildfang number has been a recent favorite around Armoire HQ. While it’s relaxed through the body, it hits perfectly through the shoulders to avoid looking too oversized.
Finish the look with simple slingback black pumps, simple jewelry and a black leather tote. We suggest sticking to an all black and white palette for this outfit. Rewear your blazer with a baby blue cashmere tee and black slacks for a dose of color later in the week.
Your Armoire Package:
- Wildfang blazer
- Nicole Miller dress
- White & Warren cashmere tee
- Bailey 44 tuxedo trousers
Style with
Black slingback heels
Black leather tote
A touch of sparkle
Statement-Making Monochrome
While monochrome looks may feel intimidating at first glance, they’re surprisingly easy to put together. For this outfit, we decided to transform a traditionally masculine color into something more feminine. Start by pairing together a midi skirt and cashmere sweater of the same hue. (This robin’s egg blue pairing reveals just how ready we are for spring!) Finish the outfit by adding a professional jacket that’s within the same color family. We opted for a classic navy blazer, but if you’re feeling adventurous try a tweed number instead.
Style your look with a fashion-forward white ankle boot or a pair of nude pumps, depending on the formality of your office. If this look is a bit too laid-back for your uber-formal office, save it for casual Friday!
Your Armoire Package:
- Cupcakes and Cashmere blazer
- White & Warren cashmere tee
- BCBG Maxazria midi skirt
- Diane Von Furstenberg tweed jacket
Style with
White ankle boots
Pop of color purse
Simple silver earrings
Banish Boring Button Downs
Your white button down doesn’t need to feel blah. Keep it feeling fresh by pairing it with a printed midi skirt instead of tired trousers. The striped print of this Joie skirt mimics those seen on classic menswear suits, making it the perfect choice for a professional office. Tuck in your button down to show off the side-tie detail.
Style with white footwear for a fashion-forward look or nude pumps if your office is on the conservative side. Top off the look with a quilted crossbody bag and a touch of sparkle. Save the tweed blazer and blue sheath dress in your Armoire package for an easy look later in the week.
Your Armoire Package:
- Boden tweed blazer
- Scotch & Soda white button down
- Joie striped midi skirt
- Nora Gardner sheath dress
Style with
White ankle boots
Quilted crossbody bag
Fun stud earrings
Power Dress, Power Move
If you need an outfit that makes you feel like you can kick ass and take names, this is it. The bold pink shade celebrates your femininity, while the conservative cut keeps the look office apropro. Pair your dress with pointed toe pumps and professional jewelry, like these mini gold hoops and chic Apple Watch band.
If your office doesn’t allow for sleeveless styles, slip on a basic black blazer. Later in the week, you can rewear it with the Classic Blue silk blouse and tuxedo trousers in your package.
Your Armoire Package:
- Wildfang blazer
- Ted Baker dress
- Etro silk blouse
- Bailey 44 tuxedo trousers
Style with
Black pointed toe pumps
Gold Apple Watch band
Gold mini hoops
Ready to rent your perfect business professional wardrobe? Take our 3-minute style quiz to get started today!
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