As we prepare to return to the office, feelings are mixed. At Meet Bernard, we’ve been happy to head back to our stores in Greenwich and East Dulwich since mid-May, but for some, working from home has suited them to a tee. But whether you’re raring to head back to the communal desk space, or would rather stay working from your dining table full-time one fact remains: you’re going to need to dress for the occasion.
We hear you: lounging in sweatpants and old t-shirts is both comfy and comforting, but it’s probably not going to fly with your colleagues. Which is why we’ve put together some of our favourite SS21 styles to help you ease back into office attire.
If you wear a suit to work you’re lucky enough to have something of a set uniform – even if it does feel stuffy come summer. But for more relaxed dress codes, the temptation might be to push them as casual as possible this year. But since you’ve already indulged in a year of loungewear, why not make a little effort?
Mens' smart casual dress codes
We love a button-down shirt, and paired with chinos and minimal trainers it doesn’t feel over the top. Alternatively, an overshirt can be worn open as a jacket or buttoned up if you need to make a good impression at meetings.
Mens' casual dress codes
If your office is always casual, a rugby shirt or polo feel super relaxed, but the collars offer a smarter element that make an effortless nod to something more sophisticated. Even a bright statement sweater and jeans feels like a step-up from the staples we’ve worn day in and day out at home for the past 15 months.
Womens' smart casual dress codes
When it comes to clothes, girls get even more of the fun – and smart casual office wear is no exception. A printed blouse dresses up a classic pair of blue jeans. But if denim is a no-go, keep comfy in a pair of tie-waist trousers or a flowing chiffon dress. And as an added bonus: you’ve got your dinner outfit sorted all in one.
Womens' casual dress codes
For casual office, all you really need to do to make an effort is elevate your top from baggy at-home tee to something more feminine, like a frill-sleeved style. But if you’ve been looking forward to getting dressed up again, why not make a statement with some printed trousers? Just pair with a classic black cami and you’re good to go. Or for a perfectly comfy take on summery office style, we love a floral cotton dress paired with our favourite Karhu trainers.
See? Nailing office style is easy. Now you just need to tackle the commute.