The Great Office Style Debate: Navigating the Evolution of Workplace Fashion
“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak. ”
When I walked into my first corporate job interview, the cues for dressing were crystal clear: navy suits, closed-toe shoes, and pantyhose were non-negotiable. Fast forward to 2025, and we're witnessing a fascinating transformation in workplace fashion, particularly as Gen Z brings fresh perspectives to office culture. Let's unpack this evolution and find the sweet spot between personal expression and professional presence.
1. The Corpcore Conundrum
The emergence of "corpcore" - a trend blending traditional office wear with contemporary fashion - reflects a broader shift in workplace culture. While major retailers are marketing crop tops and micro shorts as workwear, this creates a genuine dilemma for young professionals navigating their first office environments. The key isn't to dismiss these trends outright, but to understand how to adapt them thoughtfully. (see Lane Florsheim’s thoughtful article below)
2. The Generational Bridge
Rachel Goldstein's observation about the divide between older and younger Gen Z professionals highlights an important truth: workplace dress codes often involve unwritten rules that aren't explicitly taught. This knowledge gap presents an opportunity for mentorship and dialogue across generations, rather than judgment or dismissal.
3. Investment Without Excess
Building a professional wardrobe doesn't require breaking the bank. The secret lies in choosing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Consider starting with:
- A well-fitted blazer that can elevate any outfit
- Classic trousers in neutral colors
- A selection of polished tops that transition well from day to night
- Quality shoes that prioritize both comfort and style
4. Reading the Room
Perhaps the most valuable skill in workplace fashion isn't about following trends but developing situational awareness. Different industries, companies, and even departments within the same organization may have varying expectations. Pay attention to how successful leaders in your field present themselves and use that as a general guideline.
5. The Future of Work(wear)
While the traditional work wardrobe may be evolving, the principle of dressing for success remains constant. The key is finding the intersection between personal style, professional appropriateness, and workplace culture. Yes, you can express personality through fashion while maintaining credibility - it's about making intentional choices rather than following trends blindly.
Moving Forward
As we navigate this changing landscape, consider asking yourself:
- How does my clothing choices align with my professional goals?
- What message am I sending to colleagues, clients, and leadership?
- How can I build a wardrobe that makes me feel both confident and appropriate?
Remember, workplace fashion isn't about stifling creativity or enforcing outdated rules - it's about understanding that our appearance is part of our professional communication toolkit. Whether you're team traditional or embracing corpcore, the goal remains the same: presenting yourself in a way that supports your career aspirations while respecting your workplace culture.
And let's address the elephant in the room: those leggings? Save them for your weekend errands or workout sessions. Professional presence doesn't mean sacrificing comfort, but it does mean choosing pieces that command respect in the workplace.
What's your take on the evolution of office fashion? How are you balancing personal style with professional presence in your workplace? Share your thoughts and favorite workwear tips in the comments below.
Leilani M. Brown is the founder and CEO of Giant Steps, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in strategy, culture, career, and education. She is the author of "Your Next Giant Steps: 25 Practical Tips for Job Search Success," "From Campus to Career: 25 Tips for Your First Professional Year" and is the host of Your First Job, a podcast offering inspiration and information from some of the world's most talented and accomplished people.
Her insights on workforce development and inclusion have been featured in Newsweek, Fortune, and other leading outlets. Leilani holds a Bachelor's degree from Middlebury College and a Master's in Public Administration from NYU.
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Gen Z’s New Rules for Appropriate Office Wear: The work wardrobe is out. Corpcore is in. By Lane Florsheim in the Wall Street Journal