How to Style Jeans for the Office

How to Style Jeans for the Office

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Despite what you’ve probably heard, you can wear jeans to work, even if it’s not casual Friday. This is great news for all of us ladies who live in our true blues. But how do you take this style from casual to corporate? Fortunately, making your favorite denim office-friendly is easier than you think. With the right pieces and accessories, this weekend staple is effortlessly transformed into a weekday essential.

Follow these tips to create a nine-to-five look that’s just as comfortable as it is chic.

Skinny Jeans

White After Labor DayThough the skinny jean currently has some competition in the fashion world (we’re looking at you, kick flares), the shape-skimming cut still reigns supreme in many a gal’s heart. With its clean lines, numerous washes and colors, and surprising ability to be dressed up or down, the skinny jean is a wardrobe go-to. But, the question remains: is it versatile enough to wear to work? Yes with a few caveats. Avoid any denim with holes (even if they’re an intentional design detail) and stick to darker washes, which look more sophisticated and create a sleeker silhouette. If you’re looking for a bit of a twist on the traditional skinny cut, The Zoe Report suggests opting for a skinny jean with a split-front detail and pairing with flats for an extra chic finish. To take it one step further, opt for a colored skinny jean instead of the classic blue wash. Deep plum, crisp white, pastel pink, and even a neutral black all work well in an office environment. No matter which skinny you choose, pair with a simple ballet flat or menswear-inspired loafer and a tailored button-up or loosely tucked sweater for a professional overall look.

Boyfriend Jeans

Fall Crop Tops

It’s no secret that boyfriend jeans are the epitome of casual-cool denim. Slouchy, the perfect amount of undone, and a bit, well, boyish, this style is seemingly uber-versatile until you consider wearing them to work. Maybe it’s the boyfriend denim’s light wash, often distressed design, or overall comfortable fit (all the things we adore about them) that make this particular silhouette so tricky to wear. Or, perhaps we’re just not pairing these jeans with the right pieces. To make your favorite pair of boyfriend jeans office-appropriate, dress them up with the one piece that never fails to fit right in at work: a fitted blazer. As Lyst writes, tailored blazers and waistcoats are ideal for the office, transforming a laidback weekend staple into a style that can easily pass muster during the weekday. Add a pair of strappy heels, a statement necklace, and a structured handbag for a polished finish.

Wide Leg Jeans

Possibly the easiest denim silhouette to pull off at the office, the wide leg jean is equal parts on-trend and timeless, not to mention universally flattering. To ensure this particular style is one you reach for again and again during the workweek, Real Simple recommends choosing a wide leg style with clean lines. A pair that fits seamlessly across the waist, coupled with the floor-length hem of the flares, will create the illusion of mile-long legs in an instant. Then, to balance the proportions of your wide leg jeans, choose a boxy, slightly cropped top that hits at the waist and incorporates darts or seaming. Not only do these type of fit points define your shape, they also keep you from getting swallowed in too much fabric. Top with a sleek vest or blazer to up the at-work ante, and finish the ensemble with a platform heel, wedge, or chunky heel for a sophisticated, streamlined appearance.

Which style is your favorite?

Tamara Sykes
Caribbean-Born Gal. Always Plottin' My Next Hairstyle. Encouraging women with a creative spirit to color outside the lines and live a life they love.

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