The way we work has changed and so have the rules when it comes to styling your outfits for the office; the lines are blurred and the opportunity to have fun with your choices has never before been so freeing.
I remember moving back to the UK 3 years ago, purging my Mum’s wardrobe for “professional” looking outfits that could help land me a job, without me having to spend a penny. My trick at the time was to modernise her well tailored, high quality suits by accessorizing them with bold and daring pieces, or separating the predictable blazer and trousers and pairing them with T.shorts, skirts or even “office appropriate” shorts. And it worked! I managed to land a job, start paying off my drowning debt I had accumulated in the US and ultimately building a fresh pre-loved closet full of new-to-me items.
Fast forward to a post-pandemic era whereby we love the concept of luxe-comfort but also crave the opportunity to experiment and re-invent ourselves on the daily. What is it we should actually be wearing to the office? How far is too far?
Here are my top tips when it comes to following the rules for a new ear of secondhand office wear.
High Stakes. Low-Waisted

According to designers, the boardroom seems to be getting a makeover.The two-piece suit has been at the height of trends for the past two years and thankfully isn’t going anywhere. Keep your eyes peeled for 80’s stricken suits, think oversized and boxy, generally accompanied with a high-waisted trouser. But also look a little further to see if you can source any low rise options that may have graced us in the early 90s. Low-rise trousers follow suit with the low-rise jean trend of having an exceptionally short crotch length. This gives them a well-tailored appearance instead of appearing baggy (though if you like a baggy look, simply just size up in regular slacks and wear them lower on your waist).
Trenched Out
Trench coats are one of those staple items that will always look good in your closet; an easy-yet-effective outfit build that will always complete an outfit. Investing in a high-quality trench can help layer, dress-up an office look, or simply be a practical piece that keeps you dry in the unpredictable British weather. Pay attention to detail such as lining, buttons and zips. It doesn’t have to be Burberry to look good, but don’t be fooled into buying a pre-loved trench that isn’t made well. It won’t serve you. Better to pay for quality and keep the secondhand piece looking premium than waste money on a coat that isn’t made to last.

Skirting Around
Remember pencil skirts? If the fitted look isn’t your thing- after all, they are far from comfortable! Then consider sourcing skirts that make statements. Keep it cool with knee-grazing 90’s inspired skirts, that you can move, work and travel in.
To avoid the corporate vibe, choose bold prints, experiment with different textures and pair with fitted tops to accentuate the overall silhouette.

Feeling inspired and ready to revamp your secondhand workwear style? Here are some top picks to consider for your office look.