12 Style Tips For Looking Professional At Work

There are a lot of us out there who feel like Anne Hathaway in The Devil Wears Prada after suddenly being thrust into the big girl world — and having to somehow figure out how to look put together by Monday. These sophisticated and fun work wardrobe staples will save you the added stress of worrying over your outfit and the easy styling tricks will give you the confidence to absolutely kill it this year. For that reason, I've compiled the 10 easiest ways to look chic and grown-up at work (ASAP).

If you haven't yet mastered the fine art of making it through the entire day in a pair of heels, you'll be way more comfortable, yet still very chic in a more doable pair of block heels. If you are still clutching on to your favorite cardigan sweater as your solution to adding a top layer onto your outfit— it's time to let go and embrace the beauty that is the perfect moto jacket. And before you head out the door, drop that undersized, overstuffed bag: It's time to streamline your tote. Soon, you'll be the sleek It Girl of the office who will easily impress the Miranda Priestlys of the world.

Snag A Pair Of Fancy Slip-Ons For Long Commutes

Vans Slip-On Metallic Silver (Sizes 5-10), $29-$55, Amazon

These metallic slip-on sneakers are classic, comfortable, and office-appropriate with their touch of shine. Plus, elastic paneling by the tongue make the fit as secure as it needs to be. Sporting these means saving room in your bag from swapping shoes, and no more shoe swapping in the lobby. If you find yourself running to catch the subway every morning or walking multiple blocks to work — or a combination of both (the joys of city life), then a comfy-chic pair of shoes is an absolute must.

Have A Boyfriend-Fit Staple Blazer On Hand

Sam Edelman Women's Blazer (Sizes S-L), $41-$149, Amazon

A basic, chic blazer is absolutely essential in the big girl world. To avoid getting stuffy, this one with a boyfriend fit adds an instant cool girl element to your professional attire. This one's cropped cut in back is versatile, so you can switch out your pencil skirt for jeans and get an instant happy hour makeover.

Mix Comfortable And Chic With Dressy Joggers

MINKPINK Darkest Dawn Track Pant (S-L), $20-$31, Amazon

These slim-cut leggings by MINKPINK give you a bit of edge with their faux leather athleisure look. The ribbed waist and ankles mean they'll be super comfortable all day, and having a pair of dressy joggers in your closet's a must for mornings when you're considering wearing high school sweatpants. Pair these with a basic long sleeve tee and heels for an office-appropriate, chic day in your sweats.

Be Prepared To Wear A Simple White Button Down With Everything

American Apparel Classic Button Down Shirt (Sizes XS-L), $74, Amazon

Crisp. White. Button-Down: Three simple words that hold a lot of meaning when it comes to office attire. This fitted American Apparel version is 100 percent cotton and looks amazing with anything from a midi-skirt to high-waisted culottes. Throw in a bold red lip and you'll be the classic-loving Taylor Swift of the office next week.

Make your Feet Flawless (And Happy!) With A Nude Block Heel

Lauren Ralph Lauren Velda Dress Pump (Sizes 5-11), $150, Amazon

Block heels have been trending recently and for good reason — they're the extremely comfortable and just-as-stylish alternative to sky-high stilettos. This leather-soled nude pair lengthens legs and is a classic piece that will become one of your favorite fashion staples for your next meeting or work event.

Ditch Your Cardigan, Wear A Versatile Moto Jacket Instead

Rebel Wilson for Torrid Faux Leather Moto Jacket, $98, Amazon

Part of Rebel Wilson's line for Torrid, this faux leather jacket in white is as tough as the classic black look, but its lighter hue makes it ideal for the office. A good moto jacket is truly life changing — it has a magical way of making an outfit look instantly more put-together. (Bonus: White after Labor Day is a dead fashion rule. This color jacket is the perfect staple for any season!)

Update Your Accessories With A Sophisticated Watch

Kate Spade Watches 5 O'Clock Metro, $175, Amazon

Get yourself through the work day by reminding yourself that it's 5 o'clock somewhere — and almost 5 o'clock for you! This Kate Spade watch is a matches-anything piece that will take your accessory game into the real world, real quick. You won't be as tempted to check your phone during meetings, instead, you'll be offering the time by casually flashing your new cute watch.

Choose Tights With Added Shimmer

Hue Women's Metallic Tights (Sizes S-M), $9, Amazon

Everyone has basic black or nude tights, which are essential to looking good in the work world during the cooler months. You can be one step ahead with tights that have a hint of shimmer to take your every day LBD to the next level. This pair is machine-washable and doesn't include that sky-high control top that isn't everyone's cup of tea.

Layer Easily With A Loose-Fitting Shift Silhouette

Donna Morgan Color-Block Dress (Sizes 2-10) , $46, Amazon

This bright color-block dress is the ideal foundation for building a work look. The Dolman sleeves make you immune to drafty office temperatures, while a scoop neckline is sophisticated but still current. Its loose-fitting shift style makes it warm with tights in winter, or breezy for bare legs in warmer months. Plus, its eye-opening color will wake up your darker layering pieces.

Look Luxe With A Printed 100-Percent Silk Scarf

Diane von Furstenberg Women's Zen Silk Scarf, $158, Amazon

A 100 percent silk scarf is a great grown-up wardrobe staple. It keeps you warm in the colder seasons, but it's breathable in the warmer weather — so you never have to pack it away during the year. This DVF printed scarf can add a pop of color to anything from a basic white t-shirt, to a trench coat, to a your favorite dress.

Update the Pencil Skirt With Color-Blocking

Calvin Klein Printed Pencil Skirt (Sizes 0X-3X Plus) , $27, Amazon

This form-fitting pencil skirt means effortless glam in any wardrobe — a bold graphic print, black and white color scheme, and its exposed gold zip closure in back give this skirt everything it needs to add polish to your professional look. Pair with heels and a comfy cotton T-shirt to keep it casual but chic.

Carry Everything In Style With The Ultimate Tote Bag

Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote Bag, $235, Amazon

You want the large size of a tote bag that can fit everything, but you also don't want to look like you're headed for your first day of high school. Solution: this sleek tote by Longchamp. The nylon lining makes it easy to wash and perfect for rainy days, while the black and brown combo will go with any outfit — no extra planning necessary. It's a smart investment, and this style's quickly becoming the staple for many professional women on-the-go, including It Girl Alexa Chung. (Mine lasted me several months of traveling through Europe, and several years after!)

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