Cracked your first big corporate gig and want to dress like you mean business? You’d better! So if you’re looking to channel your inner Rachel Zane, we’ve got you. And don’t worry if you haven’t snagged your first pay cheque or signing bonus yet. Our wallet-friendly (yet no less stylish) picks will allow you to overhaul your closet for less than Rs 25,000. With these key essentials in your work wardrobe – and our tips on how to put together many, many looks using just them – you are guaranteed to climb the corporate ladder in style!
1. Bombay High Women White Slim Fit Formal Shirt on Myntra
Is an office wardrobe complete without the classic white shirt? Not quite! The most basic must-have, this one will see you through the days when you’re running really late and don’t know what else to wear. Especially as it’s so easy to dress up or down.
Price: Rs 999
Buy it here.
2. New Look Belted High-Waisted Peg Trouser on ASOS
A pair of well-fitted black trousers is an absolute must for the office-going girl! To stay stylish, opt for a pair that is tapered and ends at the ankle. Heels or flats, you can wear these with both – and with pretty much every kind of top!
Price: Rs 1,945
Buy it here.
Mix and Match #1
3. Tribal Triangle Shirt from Chemistry
Once in a while, swap those crisp white shirts for some other shirts. Stay with discreet print in neutral colours like this one so that you can mix and match it with multiple bottoms. Wear it with well-tailored trousers and ballet flats for maximum impact.
Price: Rs 1,189
Buy it here.
4. I Know Solid Blue Trousers on Jabong
Formal wear gets a chic update with these trousers. Team this pair with a white shirt and a blazer for your first presentation, or wear it with a mandarin collar blouse for a working lunch. Rest assured, you’ll quickly turn into the office fashionista!
Price: Rs 1,899
Buy it here.
Mix and Match #2
5. Vero Moda Dipped Hem Pleated Back Top on KOOVS
Don’t worry, we are not ALL about the shirts. Invest in a solid-coloured shirt with some interesting detailing to wear once in a while. Team it with beige trousers to for a regular day in the office; wear it under a black jacket and with black trousers for a big conference.
Price: Rs 2,195
Buy it here.
6. KOOVS Soft Belted Plain Trousers
Make sure you get yourself a good-looking pair of pants in a neutral shade like beige. Sober yet stylish, this belted number with box pleats is perfect for adding a shot of comfortable elegance to your work look. Whether you want to team it with your basic white shirt or a slightly adventurous floral, you’ll always stay office-appropriate!
Price: Rs 1,495
Buy it here.
Mix and Match #3
7. Black Single-Breasted Blazer by Van Heusen
Don’t hold back your purse strings when buying a blazer. It’s a good idea to invest in a well-fitted, quality one that will last you long. This minimal yet smart option from Van Heusen can be worn with trousers, dresses and even skirts.
Price: Rs 3,795
Buy it here.
8. Simple Elegant Dress by Stalk Buy Love
Bored of the same ol’ trousers? Change things up in a formal dress! However, we suggest opting for a soft-coloured one, like this number. The important thing to keep in mind when wearing dresses to the workplace is to look for a modest hemline, a discreet neckline and non-distracting colours. This one fits the bill, doesn’t it?
Price: Rs 1,099
Buy it here.
Mix and Match #4
9. ASOS Belted Pencil Skirt
Jump onto the midi pencil skirt bandwagon with this grey stunner. Team this fashionable pick with a printed shirt, heels and a string of pearls to really show them who’s the boss – or at least who’s soon going to be!
Price: Rs 1,962
Buy it here.
10. ASOS Lapel Detail Blazer
Now, you don’t want to be wearing black and neutrals all the time, right? And while we wouldn’t advise you to go overboard in the boardroom with a magenta bodycon dress, you can add a dash of colour to your outfit with this burgundy blazer. You can wear it over a white shirt and beige pants, or layer it on top of all-black separates – you’ll be making a statement either way – and stand out amidst a sea of black pantsuits at a big conference!
Price: Rs 4,100
Buy it here.
Mix and Match #5
11. Butterflies Trendy Hand-held Bag on Flipkart
A roomy tote that is equal parts functional and fashionable is the order of the day. Throw in feminine to the checklist too, if you are a girly-girl. And all your searches ought to end with this trendy arm candy, if you ask us.
Price: Rs 999
Buy it here.
12. London Rebel Bow Knot Ballerinas on Koovs
Ballerinas are an office wear staple and black is a safe pick. These simple ones will not only complement a host of your outfits but will also keep you comfortable, particularly on days you’re running around.
Price: Rs 1,800
Buy it here.
13. Waltz Beige Sandals on Jabong
Can’t think in flats? Then smart sandals, preferably in nude owing to its versatility, are your best bet. Our pick is a winning option; more so, because it promises to take you from AM to PM in a flash!
Price: Rs 1,399
Buy it here.
MUST-READ: #RealGirlStyle: How to Keep Your 9-to-5 Look from Being Boring
MUST-READ: #DesiGirlStyle: 6 Indian Wear Pieces to Spice Up Your Work Wardrobe
