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Splurging on a few solid basics for work always ends up making a huge difference. It’s money spent now so you don’t have to think about making major replacements later. We’ve rounded up everything that’s worth splurging on for your work wardrobe, so you can walk into a room confidently and comfortably. PS: Many of these picks are so cute you’ll want to wear them on the weekends.
For more affordable, stylish outfit ideas, click here.
The ultimate leather tote bag…
Cuyana will always be a brand that’s worth the splurge because it uses a soft, yet durable pebble leather for its bags that only gets better with time. The classic tote has two sets of straps, an interior snap system you can add inserts to, and room for a 16-inch laptop.
The ballet flats breaking the internet…
You’ve probably seen these Rosalind flats from Alohas everywhere, and our Senior Commerce Writer can confirm they’re worth the hype. They’re perfect for the days when you want a comfortable shoe that still is office-appropriate. Not to mention, the leather isn’t stiff and it comes in tons of colors.
Our team’s favorite pair of statement earrings…
Our editors love a pair of statement earrings because they make even the most boring outfit look intentional. These Monroe earrings from Jenny Bird are a doubled-up version of the brand’s bestselling Florence Hoops (a tried-and-true style amongst our editors).
A blazer that’ll always look good…
Veronica Beard is famous for its Dickey jackets and while its price is steep, the quality and cut are unmatched. The sleeves even come pre-ruched so you can get the perfect rolled sleeve every time. I’d go for the navy shade to ensure you can wear it in pretty much every situation.
A heart necklace to elevate all necklines…
I’m into keeping a statement necklace on hand for the coldest days of the year. If I’m wearing a chunky sweater and don’t want to wear anything else, it’s a great way to make that oversized sweater appear more styled. This one from Roxanne Assoulin is sweet and sentimental, and I love that you can wear it a bunch of different ways.
A hyped-up backpack that isn’t ugly…
You might scoff at Dagne Dover’s backpack price, but our Senior Commerce Director swears by hers. The brand’s cult-favorite neoprene material is durable (and comfortable to wear) without adding weight. Pick from three sizes, though we’d suggest the medium size for a standard 13-inch laptop.
A professional pair of eyeglasses…
You’ll want a pair of glasses with a smart flare. Elissa Johnson’s sunglasses have been trending a lot this past summer, and because of that, I’ve been considering her optical frames, too. This pair has an aviator silhouette made of metal that is somewhere between gold and silver. And if you don’t have a prescription, you can make them into blue-light glasses.
Jeans you can get away with wearing to work…
I’m a firm believer that when it comes to the jeans you’re wearing to work, you should spend a little more to ensure that they look tailored and not too casual. This Le Slim Palazzo Pintuck Pocket style from Frame looks like a denim trouser. You can wear them with everything, from flats and kitten heels to boots and loafers. The dark wash is perfect.
The best work pants for spring and summer…
ICYMI, wide-leg cotton pants are all the rage right now. While I love the drawstring styles from Gap and Leset, I do think that a drawstring makes them feel casual. This tailored style from Banana Republic has buttons and distinct pleating, which means you can wear them with a tee and a cardigan and you’ll look put together.
A classic blouse from Dôen…
While there are a lot of dupes for this Henri top online, I still think the original is worth the investment. I love how easily you can dress it up or down depending on the bottoms and shoes you wear with it. That said, I’d go for the black for an office environment.
A sweater our editor has had for years…
I’ve had my original La Ligne sweater for eight years and it still looks brand new. I can attest that the quality of these sweaters is unmatched. They’re soft without feeling itchy, they’re thick and substantial (but still thin enough you can layer them), and you can pick from countless styles and colors. The Mini Marin is my favorite.
A nice pair of sneakers…
These sneakers from Larroudé have a low profile with minimal accents, which makes them safe enough for the office IMHO. While they’re ideal for commuting, they’re so slim you can wear them for the entire day and no one will notice. Plus, they’d look chic with trousers. Pick from 22 different colors.