What to Wear to Work: Cute Office Outfits for Women

There was a time in my life when I had the organizational discipline to lay out my clothes for the next day before going to bed. Those days are now a distant memory, as I’m sure some of you can relate. A busy work schedule often leaves us scrounging for an outfit at the last minute, and when you need to look polished and professional for work, a thrown-together office look can add extra stress to your life! Luckily, it’s our job here at CakeStyle to make getting dressed as effortless and stress-free as possible. When you’ve got an important meeting ahead or a big project due, the last thing you want to worry about it what to wear.Since my advance-outfit-planning days are long gone, I’ve learned there are a couple quick, easy combinations that never fail. Having a few go-to outfits in your arsenal, where you can switch out pieces for variation, eliminates the stress of getting dressed for work. It’s almost like a mathematical formula – knowing what types of pieces work with each other will help you quickly put together stylish outfits. Check out two of my favorite “formulas” for easy office looks below!

Classic Blazer + Bold Pants + Silk Top

The outfits above each feature a pair of bold pants for spring. The look on the left is more trendy and edgy, while the one on the right is more classic and preppy. For the outfit on the left, I started with this beautiful pair of floral-printed pants by Ted Baker. When doing a printed pant, I recommend keeping the rest of the outfit fairly neutral, which is why I chose this blush-colored blazer (also by Ted Baker) and silk sleeveless top by Theory. I added metallic accents to the outfit with this mixed-chain statement necklace and gold flats and topped it all off with a classic black satchel bag.

The look on the right is a bit more classic and conservative. The outfit features another pair of bold pants by Ted Baker, this time in a bright peach color. A sharp blazer and white button-down shirt keep the look polished and streamlined. I continued with the classic, menswear-inspired theme by adding these nude-colored oxford flats and oversized gold chain bracelet. The light turquoise envelope clutch provides another pop of color to contrast the peach.

Trench Coat + Spring Skirt + Casual Top

A trench coat is a must-have piece for spring – perfect for spring showers and those days when it is still a little chilly out. We love the Moriah Trench Coat by Ted Baker. The flared out shape is super flattering and keeps the coat looking feminine. Since the coat is a neutral color, I love the idea of wearing a bright, fun skirt underneath. The leather skirt on the left by Milly is the perfect example of how to wear spring leather – in a bold color, of course! The skirt on the left is another pretty floral print. I love this pattern, because it has an artistic, painterly feel to it. I kept these looks a little on the casual size by adding a soft, comfy tee on the left and a sweater on the right, both by Vince. I chose statement necklaces and peep-toe pumps to go with each outfit to keep them from getting too casual for the office.

With these go-to combinations, you’ll be all set to save time when getting dressed for work in the morning. Now the only thing left to do is to learn how to transition them from desk to dinner!

Which of these four looks is your favorite, and do you have a go-to formula of your own to share? Let us know in the comments!