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What are you planning to wear to work for the Great Office Return? Our correspondent Julie Chang Murphy has curated a list of 12 new work wardrobe essentials for women best for heading back to the office post pandemic, whether its this fall 2021, next winter or even next spring. Someday we’ll be free to roam for real – so let’s get those office outfits in place now.

work Wardrobe Essentials Best for women Heading Back to the Office

Fingers crossed, everything crossed that fall spells back-to-school for millions of American students. There is perhaps more ambivalence about American workers going back into the office.

new work wardrobe essentials for women best for heading back to the office

The new work wardrobe essentials for women best for heading back to the office.

According to our friends at Marketwatch, nearly 35% of all Americans worked from home during the height of the pandemic. By this fall, that number is expected to decline into the single digits.

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Which brings our attention to the essential pieces of a return-to-work wardrobe. Many predict that work wardrobes will become more relaxed and casual, reflecting the months we spent in loungewear. We say that the timeless and sophisticated staples will always be in style. And what’s more relaxed than having the peace of mind that you have a trusty uniform — something that will always look polished no matter how frazzled you are in the morning?

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If you’re refreshing and rebuilding your closet for back-to-office season, check out these tried but true pieces that form the foundation of a bona fide boss lady.

12 chic essential work wardrobe pieces for returning to the office

1. max mara blazer.

We’re channeling our inner Tilda Swinton in this drapey and elegant blazer, crafted in Italy from wool-blend crepe.

new work wardrobe essentials for women best for heading back to the office, whether its this fall 2021, next winter or even next spring

BUY NOW  – $1,353.

2. victoria beckham blouse.

When you want the femininity of a ruffle but in a grown woman kind of way. This 70’s inspired camel blouse, made from seriously luxurious silk crepe is a stunning solution.

chic essential work pieces

BUY NOW  – $884.

3. m.m. la fleur wrap dress.

M.M. La Fleur is the female-founded startup focused solely on stylish and practical workwear for women. This modern wrap dress combines classic tailoring with machine-washable Japanese fabric. Oh yes…and it has pockets!

office work wardrobe for women

Top picks on what to wear to work as we return to the office.

BUY NOW – $185

4. me + em jumpsuit.

One and done — we love a good jumpsuit. This one, made of heavyweight silk crepe de chine is the epitome of Me + Em’s thoughtful, wear-forever pieces that are flattering and functional.

What to wear to work for the post pandemic return to the office.

BUY NOW – $685

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5. the frankie shop

This chunky cable knit sweater/vest is the perfect transition piece. We love the slightly oversized silhouette that pairs effortlessly with most trousers and skirts.

office return 2021

BUY NOW – $149.

6. mm6 maison margiela

Equal parts swishy and sculptural, this midi skirt has an iconic accordion styling cut from heat-treated crepe. We can’t wear to pair it with leather boots this fall.

office return 2021

BUY NOW – $530.

7. nili lotan

The perfect white blouse is hard to find but when you do, it’s a game-changer. This single pocket version has that crisp and minimal style that works solo or under any blazer or cardigan.

What to wear to work post pandemic for the great return to the office.

BUY NOW – $295

8. m.m. la fleur

Your hunt for flattering work pants is over. These wrinkle-resistant trousers feature a high rise, wide leg, and understated pleat for ease of movement and sleek line. And if you’re not a fan of goldenrod, don’t worry — it comes in six other colors.

How to update your work wardrobe post pandemic when its time to return to the office.

How to update your work wardrobe post pandemic when its time to return to the office.

BUY NOW – $195

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9. nili lotan

We’re all about this menswear-inspired blazer that has a heritage appeal combined with a modern cut. If your workplace is more casual, dress it down with denim or a hoodie underneath.

How to update your work wardrobe post pandemic when its time to return to the office.

BUY NOW – $895

10. gabriela hearst

There’s more than meets the eye in this cotton and silk fiber shirt dress. From the paneled bodice to the fluted skirt, it’s been tailored to fit and flatter in a way that looks effortless.

BUY NOW – $1,700

11. veronica beard

Walk into the conference room with confidence in these impeccable pants that have just the right amount of stretch for comfort.

BUY NOW – $450.

12. bottega veneta

We close our overview of the best new office work wardrobe options for women with the ultimate carryall. This Italian-made tote shaped from Bottega Veneta’s instantly iconic Intrecciato-woven leather. It easily fits a laptop and the sophisticated burgundy color elevates any ensemble.

office work wardrobe for women

BUY NOW – $2,593.

work wardrobe essentials for women returning to the office

That’s our take on the top new work wardrobe essentials for women best for heading back to the office with confidence and style. And if you’re in need of some more inspo for the the perfect commute shoes and work bags, we got you.

join our community

For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier Newsletter hereAnd see luxury in a new light.

This article contains affiliate links to products independently selected by our editors. As an Amazon Associate, Dandelion Chandelier receives a commission for qualifying purchases made through these links. 

Crediting her training as a cultural anthropologist at Wellesley College, Julie has immersed herself in various industries in the last 15 years including fashion design, event planning, and fitness. Julie lives in New York where she loves trying every ramen and dumpling restaurant with her husband and three children. She finds joy in bold prints, biographies of fierce women, kickboxing. And spending way too long finding the perfect polish color to express her mood.

Julie Murphy

Julie began her career in fashion as a design intern at 3.1 Phillip Lim after graduating from Parsons School of Design. As the fashion editor at Dandelion Chandelier, she brings over a decade of experience as a designer and marketing creative to cover trends and styling.