How to dress for work (when you don’t have to wear a suit)

The way we work is changing. With many of us working flexibly or going freelance, not everyone is at a desk for eight hours a day, five days a week. And the strict uniform of a classic navy two-piece, a white button-down and our most sensible pair of shoes is evolving, too. Instead, we increasingly find ourselves in communal work spaces – the local coffee shop or our home office, clad in casual outfits that require a little more creativity and personality.

It’s been said that, even if you don’t plan on leaving the house all day, the most productive days spent working from home come from getting up – and getting dressed – as if you were going into the office. Tempting as it may be to stay in your pyjamas, you’ll be amazed how putting on a casual shirt and a pair of Carhartt trousers will instantly elevate your productivity.

Comfort is key, so don’t try and squeeze yourself into something you’re going to want to take off the moment you sit down at your desk. Instead, go for a classic short-sleeved striped shirt paired with loose-fitting cargo trousers. White Tretorn trainers will keep the whole thing on the right side of casual and, when it’s time for a welcome stretch of the legs, top the look off with a boxy bomber jacket.

Communal workspaces are becoming an increasingly popular option for the self-employed and small businesses alike, namely for the huge amount of like-minded people you’re likely to meet every day. With that in mind, it pays to make an effort with what you wear, starting with maintaining the perfect balance between smart and casual.

A structured jacket such as this from Maison Labiche (above) will elevate your outfit and bring some shape to what you’re wearing, so you can afford to be a little more loose-fitting elsewhere. For a modern update on the classic T-shirt and jeans, go for a motif tee in a bold colour, and switch up your years-old jeans for a tapered, rolled-up iteration. A chunky pair of Red Wing boots will add style points and finish the look off with the perfect blend of practicality and style. 

You’ll be forgiven for assuming that a trip to your local coffee shop should call for nothing more than a T-shirt and your favourite pair of jogging bottoms. However, it always pays to maintain an air of professionalism and prepare for every eventuality, because there’s always the possibility of a last-minute call into the office for an emergency meeting.

A linen shirt in a bold tone will add just the right level of smartness and, paired with tapered, drawstring trousers from Ralph Lauren, will be a welcome relief from your two-piece. Top the look off with casual accessories and this Tretorn jacket – and prepare to win the day.