Eleanor Pendleton on Dressing For Business
When it comes to dressing for the office, what you wear not only impacts how you feel and how you carry yourself, but also how your colleagues and seniors perceive you.
For me, wearing head-to-toe black is my favourite work look. It can come across as a little strong—or even bland—but making it soft and adding a feminine touch with tousled wavy hair and nude nails, can help keep this style looking elegant and sophisticated.
All too often, mornings can turn into a complete meltdown (yes, we’ve all been there!) so to avoid this, I mentally plan my outfit for work the night before.
Running my own website and online magazine means I constantly need to be ready for business in case I have to run into a last minute meeting (which, to be honest, can be a daily occurrence!).
A sleeveless tailored black vest over slim black flares elongates my body (FYI I’m only 5’3”) and has me feeling like I can take on almost anything the day throws at me. A cinched belt around the waist can also help you switch up your look, allowing you to wear this office outfit repeatedly.
When choosing a long vest, pick a style with pockets. They are a lifesaver for workday essentials such as sunglasses, pens, lip balm and a smartphone.
And, because no office attire is ever complete without a tote that is big enough to house your laptop/iPad/lunch/cosmetics case, a black leather bag like this one isn’t just an accessory—it’s an investment.
So, is it pay day, yet?
Keep scrolling to see my perfect work-day outfit.
Credits: Keepsake All Great Things Vest ($200), Frame Denim Le High Flare ($329), Petite Grand Bar and Bead Necklace ($130), Mansur Gavriel Large Tote ($775), Zara Mules
Credits: Keepsake All Great Things Vest ($200), Frame Denim Le High Flare ($329), Petite Grand Bar and Bead Necklace ($130), Mansur Gavriel Large Tote ($775), Zara Mules
Credits: Keepsake All Great Things Vest ($200), Frame Denim Le High Flare ($329), Petite Grand Bar and Bead Necklace ($130), Mansur Gavriel Large Tote ($775), Zara Mules
Credits: Keepsake All Great Things Vest ($200), Frame Denim Le High Flare ($329), Petite Grand Bar and Bead Necklace ($130), Mansur Gavriel Large Tote ($775), Zara Mules
Credits: Keepsake All Great Things Vest ($200), Frame Denim Le High Flare ($329), Petite Grand Bar and Bead Necklace ($130), Mansur Gavriel Large Tote ($775), Zara Mules
Credits: Keepsake All Great Things Vest ($200), Frame Denim Le High Flare ($329), Petite Grand Bar and Bead Necklace ($130), Mansur Gavriel Large Tote ($775), Zara Mules
What is your go-to outfit for work? Let us know in the comments below!

Who's your style icon?
Kym Ellery, Caroline de Maigret and Maja Why.
Who are your 5 favourite people to follow on Twitter/Instagram?
I have so many: @majawhy, @wethepeoplestyle, @harperandharley, @margaret__zhang, @sarasampaio, @oraclefoxblog... I could go on. But, my secret indulgences however are @kimkardashian, @thefatjewish and @pamlovesferrariboys.
What's the fashion essential you can't live without?
Frame Le High Waist Denim Jeans (in both black and white).
What's your desert island album?
Ladyhawke's eponymous EP.
-
Chic People Have Spoken: Bra-Exposing Outfits Are So Back, So I Tried the "Controversial" Look For MyselfIt's honestly easier to pull off than you think.
-
Fashion Insiders Are Carrying Handbags From These Brands In 2026—I Like These 15 Styles Starting At $69The only handbag guide you need for the new year.
-
Just so You Know, Zara Already Has All the Best Shoes for Winter 2025Shop before they sell out.
-
If Designer-Looking Bags Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standouts From H&M, Zara,Replica Store, and MoreThese will have you doing a double take.
-
New Week, New Zara: The Winter Arrivals Worth Dropping Everything ForFrom chunky sweaters to holiday dresses.
-
This Denim Wash Will Have You Looking Like a Fashion Person This WinterThese jeans make any outfit look more expensive.
-
Hot Stuff! Zara x Ludovic de Saint Sernin Is Sexy, Chic, and Guaranteed to Sell Out by December 1Shop the collaboration inside.
-
My Mom Is 56, and I'm 22—29 Chic Zara Finds We're Loving RNSee the rich-looking pieces inside.
-
I'm Bored With My Closet—These 27 Chic Zara, J.Crew, and COS Finds Have the Power to Turn Things AroundEffortless and rich-looking is the vibe.
-
These Head-Turning Zara and H&M Pieces Won't Last Until the End of the Month—39 Styles to Get Now or RegretThese look like straight-up designer.