After a week (or two if you’re lucky) moving from leggings to trackies, and the occasional dressy moment, getting back into a routine of work can feel like a huge feat. Especially when you add in figuring out smart yet comfortable work looks too. Whilst we would all like to be someone that can plan out a weeks worth of outfits in advance, and ensure they’re ready to go on the morning they’re required, often times it feels like a mad rush whether you’re headed into the office, or simply to your kitchen table. As someone who’s often found themself staring blankly into a wardrobe whilst counting down the minutes until I miss my morning train, I’ve had to find an easy solution to all workwear woes. And that, my friends, is the humble dress.
In my opinion, dresses don’t get nearly enough credit. They’re pre-made outfits, requiring simply a shoe and coat, and you’re on your way. They come in a variety of styles, from cosy knits to sharp shirting styles, playful prints to simplistic monochromes. The versatility of dresses makes them the ideal work companion, and I can confirm will save you from tedious early morning outfit scrambles. Better still, the lack of restriction thanks to the skirt of a dress means no waistbands digging in, or uncomfortable zips when sitting through long meetings.
Good news, then, as the comfortable dresses—be they knitted, oversized or simply toasty—are everywhere this season and strike the perfect balance of being effortless to throw on but also smart. I’d also recommend a shirred dress, as that will allow you movement, but there are also some great shirt dresses that are stretchy, too. Keep scrolling to see 20 dresses that are perfect for wearing to work.
Style Notes: It goes without saying that knitted dresses are some of the most comfortable you’ll come across. Wear now with knee-high boots. Then, switch in some chunky flat sandals come summer.
The refined detail work is sure to impress, even over a Zoom call.
Wear loose or define your silhouette with a belt.
I’m a big fan of this khaki style.
Reformation is known for their brilliant dresses.
What’s not to love?
Style Notes: Chic, elegant and endlessly flattering, the draped dress trend is sticking around for 2024. If you’re looking for a form-fitting style thats fitting for work, then look no further than this dress style.
A best-seller.
This sculptural dress is so striking.
Brown shades feel so elevated.
Well done, Toteme.
From the neckline to the sleeves to the draped waist, there’s a lot to love about this dress.
Style Notes: Often made from breathable cotton or breezy materials, shirt dresses are perfect for layering over leggings and tights now but will work just as hard in the warmer months, too.
This would look excellent layered with a black roll-neck underneath.
The understated nature of this makes it feel even more premium.
This dress proves that simple can be so effective.
You’ll wear this throughout the seasons.
Denim shirt dresses offer a smart-casual balance.
Style Notes: Whilst midi hems are classic, one way to take your work dress further is to opt for a maxi hemline. There’s an added polish that comes with the ankle-skimming length, which lends itself to casual footwear like above, as well as heels.
This shade of grey always feels so expensive, no matter the price point.
I love that this looks like a matching set.
This Skims dress has a hold over our editors.
Raey’s timeless knit dress will feature in your WFH and everyday outfit builds.
This button down style means you can adjust the v-neck and hem as wanted.
