As companies across are calling teams back to the office, comfortable tees and sweatpants are finding their way back to your weekend rotation. For many of us, this transition means refreshing our work wardrobes. It doesn't have to be overwhelming! Start with a few versatile pieces that work across multiple settings that can take you from daily meetings, impressing clients over lunch to networking after hours.
At Q Menswear, our team has put together a simple guide to help you look polished and professional without sacrificing comfort or style for your back-to-office look.An adaptable closet featuring shirts, pants and blazers offering numerous styling choices with recommended colour pairings.
Your Everyday Smart Casual A great option to start with is the Oxford shirt. Known for its in-between style of formal and casual, this is an ideal for today’s flexible office dress code. Its slightly textured fabric adds just the right amount of character. Pair them with tailored chinos, straight-leg pleated trousers or even jeans for that smart-casual look, that transitions easily from desk to dinner. Tips: White and grey are staples that work year-round. Neutral tones for pants like tan or sand will help accentuate a contemporary edge. Striped patterns in blue or grey add subtle visual interest without being distracting.
The Subtle Statement: When you want to show a bit more personality, reach for a striped shirt. It's a great way to stand out in a sea of solid colours without crossing into that loud territory. Vertical stripes are the best option here. They help elongate your frame and gives off a sharp look. Style them with pleated trousers in darker hues for a refined look, or pair it with earthy tones like tan for a more elevated look. Tips: Navy and white stripes are a classic choice. Pairs easily with both light and darker trousers. Subtle pinstripes can offer understated elegance.
The All-Year-Round Classic: You can never go wrong with a classic white dress shirt. One of the most versatile pieces you can own, easily takes you from a client meet to a casual Friday look. Styles well with blazer, tailored pants or jeans. Elevate your style with a bespoke shirt. From picking the right silhouette to selecting fabric, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. It's a must-have for today’s hybrid work life. Tip: Roll your sleeves up for a smart casual look. Layer under a textured blazer or pair it with patterned trousers like herringbone or subtle pinstripes.
Choosing a blazer for client meetings or business lunch: What styles work well?
A well-chosen blazer is your secret weapon for client-facing moments, whether it’s a formal meeting or a business lunch. It’s all about striking the right balance between looking professional and approachable.
Unstructured Blazers Are Your Go-To for 2025: Getting back into the office groove? Start with an unstructured blazer. It’s a blend of style and ease. Soft, relaxed silhouette, ditching the sharp lines and padded shoulders of traditional tailoring for something a little more laid-back. Easily paired with chinos or even jeans. Great option for nailing that business lunch or client meeting without looking like you’re trying too hard.
The Blazer That Never Fails: Single-breasted blazer is one of the wardrobe essentials. It’s a grab and go look for that last minute lunch meeting with a client. Go for a single-breasted design with notch lapels, double vents and patch pockets. Fabrics like wool, wool/silk/linen blend and herringbone are good to start with. Herringbone and tweed are great for subtle visual interest, adds depth and character to your look.
Double-Breasted Blazer Look Modern and Not Stuffy: The double-breasted blazer is back in a big way for 2025. Sharp lapels and relaxed tailoring are something to look out for. Stick to classic like navy or pinstripes for versatility, or go with earthy hues for that modernity. Style them with your jeans for a ‘high-low’ approach, or classic loafers to look dressy.
As the workplace shifts back to in-person interactions, dressing well is more important than ever. Back-to-office this season is about making thoughtful choices, working with what you have while adding key pieces to elevate your wardrobe. Experiment with breathable fabrics like wool blends. Whether you wear them on their own or put a whole combo together layering smartly helps add sophistication without feeling overly formal. A perfect fit makes all the difference. Subtle accessories like belt or a sleek timepiece adds personality without stealing the spotlight. Stick to timeless designs that complement your overall look.
We hope with these tips, you’ll be ready to take on your office days! Book your appointment with Q Menswear today. We’re here to make this transition easier for you.
