After posting a more autumnal edit of the 15 Item Work Wardrobe a month ago, I finally wanted to share a spring/summer capsule for those among you living in the Southern Hemisphere like myself. Admittedly, I can find dressing casually for the summer months difficult, so I wanted to take theme to curate a chic yet seasonally appropriate mini work capsule wardrobe which would be suitable for the corporate world, and take into consideration office dress codes.
These 15 work wardrobe basics can be effortlessly mixed and matched to create more than 30 different looks, many of which I’ve tried to share in my latest YT video. And, I’d like to think that many of these items are a notch about basic; workwear doesn’t have to be boring, and a small subtle detail can be enough to make a simple piece seem more special. I love giving my work wardrobe some personality – it’s part of what makes getting dressed each morning so much fun. I have selected a couple of sleeveless options for this edit, given that temperatures in Sydney during the summer are often in the high 30s, and I’ve never experienced any issues wearing such styles during my own time working in corporate. Where necessary, I’d swap these out for something with a capped sleeve, or wear them exclusively with a light cardigan or blazer over top. As per previous, if you’d like to see this 15 item work wardrobe in action, then you can do so by watching the video at the bottom of this post (or by heading here); I talk through each of these workwear basics, while sharing more than 25 different ways to pair them. And, all items are shoppable via the image or links shared below.
THE 15 ITEM WORK WARDROBE
THE SLEEVELESS SHELL TOP; I’ve had this particular stripe silk shell top for a few years now. It was one of the first items I bought from Everlane (similar option here) and it’s turned out to be one of the most versatile. The fabric is hard-wearing, hand-washable, and it does double duty for work and for play. Sleeveless tops tend to be one of the foundations of my spring/summer wardrobe due to the heat, and opting for a silk version feels a little more luxurious and special than the same in cotton. I particularly like this shell as it has a subtle pinstripe pattern running through it, which helps to mix things up a bit!
Because you can never have too much of a good thing, I opted to include a second shell top in this 15 item work wardrobe, with a drape detail at the front. This one is from Jac + Jack and feels a mile more luxurious than the Everlane version, plus I like that it can be worn both loose over trousers or skirts to make that draped feature more prominent, or tucked in for a streamlined look.
THE LOOSE FITTING DRESSED UP TEE; T-shirts tend to be a staple piece for a casual wardrobe, but if you get the right style, I think it’s also a core basic in a work wardrobe too. This version from SABA has a unique texture to it, which makes it feel more elevated than a simple cotton one. I like that it’s a little looser as the fabric won’t cling to your body during one of Sydney’s humid heat waves.
THE FITTED SHORT SLEEVE STRETCH TOP; A good basic is indispensable, and a fitted short sleeve top in a stretch fabric (like this one) is a great piece to have to centre some of your outfits around. Not only is it a great layering piece for the cooler part of the season, but as long as you spring for a stretch cotton version, it’ll be breathable too. I like to pair these with pencil skirts for a bit of extra definition, or worn with trousers underneath a blazer to help tie together a look.
THE SHORT SLEEVE SILK SHIRT; As a summer alternative to my favourite silk blouse (more on that soon…), a short sleeved version is a great option that still looks professional. I recently added this notched design to my wardrobe and it’s been a great addition which I can see pairing well both for weekend and for play. The luxe fabric elevates the piece, and wearing it worn loose or tucked in gives you two very different aesthetics. I went for classic black just because #allblackeverything, but I love the gem-toned mustard hue if you’re after something a bit more vibrant.
THE COTTON POPOVER SHIRT; Putting a big focus on natural fibres, I find that this tends to be the key when it heats up, especially if you want to incorporate something with longer-sleeves into your work wardrobe. I especially love a popover shirt. It’s a little more informal; a little more relaxed, and the boxy shape of this particular style just sings out to me. It’s just perfect for tucking into high-waisted skirts or trousers, and I particularly love that contrast of volume: something loose and boxy on top, paired with something fitted or flowy on bottom. Again, a great way to mix things up a little is to opt for a shirt of the patterned variety. For me, it’s all about stripes
THE SILK OR COTTON SHIRT; Much of my wardrobe tends to be evergreen, so where I can, I like to try and reach for certain basics all year round to really get my money’s worth. A silk or cotton shirt might not seem like the most obvious choice for a seasonal summer wardrobe, but worn with the top buttons loose and the sleeves rolled up, I do think it can be a good choice, especially when the weather is milder. The key here is opting for natural fibres such as silk, cotton, or linen (if your office is on the more relaxed end of the spectrum). If you’re reaching for long sleeves during those warmer months you want to be sure that the material is breathable so that you don’t feel stifled throughout the day!
THE BLAZER; Just as an autumn/winter work wardrobe needs a classic blazer, it’s a must during the spring/summer months too. It’s the finishing piece to any outfit, and is something I’d always have on hand for scheduled or spontaneous meetings. My own wardrobe has shifted back into shades of mostly black, white and grey, so if a classic black option isn’t for you, I think an ivory or cream linen style with strong tailoring is a great candidate.
THE PENCIL SKIRT; I spent years convinced that the pencil skirt wasn’t right for me. And generally, what was missing was a hint of personality (and sourcing the right fit). I personally find that cotton styles tend to be a little more forgiving as they have some structure to them (rather than clinging to every contour of your body), and in a broderie anglaise fabric, there’s a touch of holiday vibes. For this 15 item work wardrobe edit, I opted for this navy peplum style from Boden. Given it’s more fitted, the peplum at the hem gives it a bit of balance, while still feeling appropriate for the office.
THE CROPPED TROUSER; If there’s ever a time for suiting that shows off a little bit of ankle, it’s now. I like something with a tapered leg that ends an inch or two above your ankle, in a high waisted style, which has a bit of a leg-lengthening effect. Having selected such minimal style tops for this edit, I wanted to incorporate a bit of print in my trousers, and this checked pair feels both on-trend yet timeless enough to carry me through for many years to come.
THE STRAIGHT LEG TROUSER; For a breezier silhouette, a great straight-leg trouser (made of natural fibres, of course!) can be a smart yet impactful addition to your work wardrobe. The pair that I went with have a micro-gingham check, which I think is a stand out and is really what sets these apart. Despite being made of linen, they aren’t prone to creasing, and even if they were, I have a feeling the busy print would help to conceal that from view.
THE KNEE-LENGTH DRESS; It might seem counter-intuitive to include a dress in a wardrobe edit that promotes versatility, yet a classic knee-length design is to me, a must. A sleeveless style will be your best bet, as it can be layered over short sleeved tops or even shirts for a unique look. Alternatively, look for a style that belts at the waist. Generally speaking, this is the smallest part of our frame so the belt accentuates that, but also sets the scene for multiple styling opportunities – just switch up the belt to make the dress feel completely different.
THE TOTE BAG; Even in the spring/summer months, a no frills leather tote is the only classic handbag you’ll really need in your wardrobe. It didn’t happen too often, but occasionally I’d find myself carting my laptop to or from the office, so this was the most practical choice (plus you’ll be able to fit your lunch in it too quite comfortably). Time and time again I’ve raved about the structured tote from Cuyana (full review here), though Linjer and Everlane also made wonderful options which are high quality, but won’t necessarily break the bank.
THE HIGH HEEL; I love a good pair of black heels for winter as they look great worn with tights, though a nude pair is a great option once it warms up. Something in a patent can look incredibly chic, otherwise a simple smooth leather pair is the safe bet.
THE POINTED TOE PUMP; Something I mentioned in my previous 15 item work wardrobe, is that I think it’s important to have a couple of options when it comes to footwear. Maybe it’s personal preference, but given the bunion I’ve had since a teen on my left foot, I like to give my feet a bit of a breather from certain shoes from time to time. Something with a low heel and a pointed toe is a great alternative to the 10cm high heels that tend to be a classic hallmark of most work wardrobes. For those who’d like an additional clothing option (less laundry!), I’d switch this out for a light and breezy top – perhaps something with a little ruffle or a drape to it.
FIVE CLASSIC OUTFIT COMBINATIONS
I don’t tend to layer too much in summer; mostly, it’s just too hot, plus I find with these staple workwear pieces, there isn’t much need. A handful of the core outfit combinations I adore include….:
OUTFIT #1 – Silk Tank + Pencil Skirt + High Heels
One of my favourite looks of the lot has to be that draped silk tank paired with the broderie anglaise peplum skirt. The top has a dark inky hue to it which is softened by the colour of the skirt, and the draped detail at the front makes for a more interesting silhouette.
OUTFIT #2 – Silk Shirt + Straight Leg Trousers + Pointed Toe Pumps
Silk and linen just so happen to be two of my favourite fabrics, and they’re even better when paired together. To make the silk blouse warm-weather friendly, I like to roll up the sleeves and wear the top two buttons loose. It has a more relaxed ‘end of the week’ vibe to it, which is accentuated by the low heel. Time to kick your shoes off!
OUTFIT #3 – Short Sleeve Silk Shirt + Cropped Trousers + High Heels
The notched collar design of this silk shirt feels a bit geek-chic, especially when paired with cropped trousers. To elevate the outfit, I’d pair it with some high heels (and maybe throw on a blazer if you’re about to head into a meeting).
OUTFIT #4 – Knee-Length Dress + Blazer + Pointed Toe Pumps
This ruffle dress from Isabel Marant has been a favourite of mine since adding it to my wardrobe (pre-loved!); the light colour palette and the ruffled sleeves and hemline are flirty and feminine, while still feeling fresh and professional. Sadly, the matching fabric belt was lost at the dry cleaners, so I’ve been pairing it with a tan leather belt. Some low-heeled suede pumps in a tan colour are a great match, and a blazer thrown on top just ups the corporate workwear factor.
OUTFIT #5 – Fitted Short Sleeve Stretch Top + Cropped Trousers + Blazer + High Heels
For the final outfit idea, I wanted to create a bit of a mismatched suit. The fitted top underneath is a good layering piece (that looks great just paired with the trousers on its own), for letting the blazer take centre stage.
I hope you enjoyed this spring/summer 15 item work wardrobe edit. I’d love to know what your warm weather work essentials are – drop them down in the comments section below! x
