The Best Fall Work Outfits for Autumn Power Dressing
20 outfit ideas for Zoom or the boardroom
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Break out your pleated trousers and trim blazer. The earthy, cool scent of fall is in the air, and with it that renewed desire for soft layers and sharp tailoring. While we still support finding creative ways to carry your summer linens into cooler weather, you’ll want the best fall work outfits to carry you from the last jacket-free days in September (the season officially starts September 23) all the way into your post-Thanksgiving power meetings.
For Rickie De Sole, women’s fashion director at Nordstrom, refreshing your wardrobe doesn’t mean starting from scratch. She suggested slowly bringing in new pieces with attention to material and fit. “Once you figure out which brands fit your body and style best, you can return to them each season to continue building a confident, foundational work wardrobe that becomes easy to coordinate and cycle through,” she said. “Workwear is an investment, so spend some time figuring out what you like, and your closet will naturally build and gain staying power.”
On the Fall/Winter 2023 runways, suiting and a general desire for pragmatic dressing were apparent in the collections of both major labels like Saint Laurent and the Row and smaller operations like Eudon Choi and Luar. Bode’s womenswear debut was chock-full of comfortable yet slightly quirky workwear ideas. Translate their design ideas to your IRL office wardrobe by mixing the classic pieces you already own with ballet flats, sharp-shouldered coats, and oversize button-downs.
Fall work outfit inspiration isn’t limited to the runway, either; it can also come from the women around you. “I used to work at Prada early in my career and learned so much from the women who I worked with there. The office uniform was a great skirt—think printed or tactile fabrics—a simple knit, and high heel or brogue,” De Sole said. It’s a uniform that has stuck with her to this day, and one of her go-to suggestions for feeling put-together.
Read on for more of the best fall work outfits, along with some fresh shopping options to try each one.
The Skirt Suit Outfit
This fall, it’s all about the denim skirt. This simple staple plays well with classic fall pieces like tall leather boots and a structured bag.
Here’s a denim skirt with an unusual twist, courtesy of an asymmetric hemline.
A knee-high western boot in rich suede is the perfect complement to a long denim skirt.
The Unexpected Classic Outfit
Even if you’re inclined to stick with the classics, try mixing things up with an unexpected take, like a tank with an unusual shape.
Toteme’s sleek blazer has a long, relaxed silhouette.
K.ngsley White “RaceHer” Ribbed Halter Tank
This isn’t your average tank. An unusual shape makes it a standout.
The Double Denim Outfit
You may be used to wearing your favorite pair of jeans to work, but take things up a notch by styling them with a coordinated (or contrasting) denim trench. Try tailored silhouettes to keep the look streamlined.
Madewell Oversized Denim Trench Coat
A denim trench will quickly become your unexpected go-to.
Straight-leg jeans work for the weekend and work meetings.
The Contrast Study Outfit
Take a chance to play with opposing ideas—that could mean contrasting colors, tight and loose silhouettes, or slick and textured materials. When juxtaposed, pieces feel fresh.
Acne Studios Libo Textured-Leather Lacket
A minimalist leather jacket is a classic piece you’ll own for years to come.
Tibi Feather-Weight Pleated Pull-On Skirt
Soft, subtle pleats add a sense of movement to your signature style.
The Cool Coordination Outfit
Don’t be afraid to lean into bold prints. A coordinated skirt and top set in a graphic design will instantly stand out.
Marimekko Friisi Seireeni Cotton Blouse
A short-sleeved button-down works between seasons.
A long skirt with coordinated graphics can be worn with a coordinating top or on its own.
The Shorts Style Outfit
While the weather is still warm, try breaking out a pair of long shorts that can be styled with your classic work pieces.
Chava Studio Oversized Button-Down
A crisp button-down with an oversize fit toes the line between casual and elegant.
Black denim shorts have a slightly dressier feel than classic blue denim.
The Pop of Color Outfit
Rich earth tones are staples for fall, but break them up with a jolt of bold color via a skirt or dress.
Cecilie Bahnsen Sidney Dress
A bright dress that’s perfect for parties, but can be styled with a blazer or coat for the office, too.
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