Cool Outfits and Professional Outfits—They're Not Mutually Exclusive

Let’s face it—we’ve been told for too long that anything “office-appropriate” automatically has to coincide with plain, neutral, and an anything-but-cool approach. Frankly, that couldn’t be further from the truth. While there is certainly a range of work environments where the definition of “professional attire” ranges greatly, we’re here to prove that dressing professionally and dressing in something that’s exciting, fresh, and stylish can totally be one and the same.

Office attire is different for each office and each person. (See the outfits one editor swore by when she worked as an assistant). But on the whole, there are general rules to follow, like skipping too-short hemlines and tank tops in favor of tailored pieces. To give your 9-to-5 wardrobe a boost, think traditionally conservative silhouettes reimagined in of-the-moment pops of color and print. But don’t just take it from us. Let the below outfits serve as all the proof you really need.

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(Image credit: @mariaalia)

Play with proportions—team flared trousers with a flowing crêpe or satin blouse for a fresh take on these tailored separates.

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(Image credit: @karenbritchick)

Take your go-to office outfits to stylish new heights by adding in key trend pieces. We love how this outfit combines a midi skirt, blazer, and of-the-moment cowboy boots.

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(Image credit: @marenschia)

We always keep styling tricks like wearing a dress with sneakers in our back pockets. While a long-sleeve midi dress and tights are universally polished, it's the unexpected pair of shoes that brings the look to a certain level of cool.

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(Image credit: @gabifresh)

One word: suits. The matching sets are easily our favorite way to approach workwear. And with so many fresh colors to choose from right now, there's no reason not to invest in this updated staple.

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(Image credit: @chrissyford)

Keep an eye out for interesting details like these trousers with lace-up panels. Though the rest of her look is made up of wardrobe basics like a plain turtleneck and blazer, it's decidedly forward.

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(Image credit: @bettinalooney)

So you love your neutrals and are rarely willing to part with them? Get creative with your approach to the classics when you pair flared trousers with something oversize up top. Opt for a cropped hem that won't obscure your figure.

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(Image credit: @ada_oguntodu)

Another strong case for the power suit. Feeling extra bold? Try out a printed set and accessorize accordingly with a sculptural pair of earrings.

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(Image credit: @deborarosa)

Details, details, details. We can't stress enough just how much an eye for subtle detailing can take an average outfit and transform it into something seriously stylish. Here, cool trousers and architectural mules are the standout pieces.

Shop professional pieces to get excited about

Need more work-related style inspiration? See what successful female professionals put on to make them feel their most powerful.

Senior Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews withBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing 's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.