How we dress for work is a long way from the days of staid office dress codes, when men were expected to wear a simple grey suit (the same damn suit as every other guy in the office), day in and day out. Most workplaces today have a pretty relaxed approach to office style, but that comes with its own challenges. Like greeting each day with the question: what should I wear today? After all, the real reason to look presentable isn't to impress your boss or outshine your colleague—though that can be a nice bonus. It's to have some self-respect. You worked hard to get here, right? Take some pride in your appearance, because you've earned it. Dressing well every morning acknowledges that you're preparing for something important. Herewith, five fresh options for a week's worth of work, whether you're sitting at your desk, off to a presentation or meeting with the boss.
Day 1
Cotton Trousers
and a Knit Polo
American classics with a continental twist, a pair of classic chinos is elevated with a lightweight knit polo. Want to dress this up even more? Pull on a blazer or bomber jacket.
Democratic fit chinos,
$989 by Taylor Stitch
Knit linen polo,
$145 by Sandro
Suede chukkas,
$155 by Astorflex
Democratic fit chinos,
$989 by Taylor Stitch
Day 2
A Simple Sweater
With Dress Pants
Never underestimate the subtle power that is conveyed via a sharp, minimalist look. A soft sweater complements a proper pair of wool trousers, while luxe leather sneakers update the look.
Merino and silk sweater,
$185 by Polo Ralph Lauren
Lightweight linen and wool trousers,
$240 by Reiss
Low 1 sneakers,
$178 by Oliver Cabell
Lightweight linen and wool trousers,
$240 by Reiss
Day 3
A Playful Graphic Shirt and Chinos
An easy look that strikes a balance. The graphic pattern on the shirt and some modern looking sneakers both offer a shot of levity but the cardigan keeps things from looking too relaxed.
Tab-front chinos,
$168 by Todd Snyder
Camp collar shirt,
$130 by NN07
Merino cardigan,
$89.50 by J.Crew
Trigenic flex sneakers,
$170 by Clarks
Day 4
A (Brighter) Blue Suit
and White Shirt
The cooler cousin to your standard navy suit setup. The brighter shade and a graphic pocket square sets you apart—and if you want to take it more casual, swap the shirt for a crisp white tee.
Stretch pinpoint Oxford,
$69.50 by J.Crew
Siena Italian wool suit,
$639 by Suitsupply
Cotton and silk pocket square,
$80 by Drake's
Suede split-toe derby,$325 / $150.66 by Mezlan
Day 5
Black Jeans and
Navy Oxford Shirt
Not only do the darker colors of the shirt and jeans offer a sleek alternative for casual Fridays, they easily work for a date or a night of drinks with coworkers after hours.
Never-fade black denim,
$135 by Buck Mason
Button-down Oxford,
$165 by Gitman Bros. Vintage
Crepe soled Chelsea boots,
$180 by Astorflex
Button-down Oxford,
$165 by Gitman Bros. Vintage
FYI
FYI
According to the latest data, Americans work an average of 38.6 hours per week, slightly under the 40 hours that has been traditionally considered a typical workweek.
(Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)