19 Best Business Casual Outfits For Women To Wear At The Office
Getting dressed for work shouldn’t feel like a chore.
I’ve spent years figuring out how to look professional without sacrificing comfort or personal style.
The right business casual outfit can boost your confidence and help you make a great impression at the office.
Here are my favorite combinations that strike that perfect balance between professional and comfortable.
1. Blazer With Tailored Trousers
The power duo that never fails! I pair a navy blazer with gray tailored trousers at least once a week. The structure of the blazer adds instant polish while the trousers create a lengthening effect. Fabric choice makes all the difference here.
Opt for breathable materials like wool blends or cotton that won’t leave you sweating during important meetings. Add a simple white tee underneath for casual days or a silky blouse when you need to step it up. My favorite trick is adding unexpected accessories – maybe a colorful pocket square or statement earrings. These small touches keep this classic combination from feeling boring or outdated.
2. Midi Dress With Loafers
Nothing says style like a midi dress paired with classic loafers. I grab this combo on mornings when my alarm fails me – it looks thoughtful with zero effort. The midi length works for any body type and keeps things appropriate for office settings. Stick with solid colors or subtle patterns that won’t raise eyebrows in conservative workplaces.
Loafers add a touch of preppy sophistication while being kind to your feet during long days. For cooler days, I layer with a lightweight cardigan or structured jacket. This outfit transitions beautifully from desk to dinner – just swap the loafers for heels and add bolder jewelry for after-work events.
3. Knit Top With Pencil Skirt
There’s something magical about the balance of a soft knit top against the structure of a pencil skirt. I reach for this pairing when I want to feel put-together without the stiffness of a full suit. Choose a fine-gauge knit that won’t add bulk – merino wool or cotton blends work year-round.
The pencil skirt should hit just at or below the knee and have a bit of stretch for comfort when sitting. Black is foolproof, but don’t be afraid of burgundy, forest green, or navy for variety. A half-tuck keeps things modern and creates a waistline. Finish with comfortable heels or flats depending on your day’s schedule. This combo works especially well for presenting or client meetings.
4. Blouse With Wide-Leg Pants
My secret weapon for days when comfort is non-negotiable! A silky blouse with flowy wide-leg pants creates a sophisticated silhouette that moves beautifully throughout the day. The key is balancing proportions. Since wide-leg pants create volume below, keep your top more fitted or tucked in to define your waist. High-waisted styles are especially flattering and look more intentional than low-rise options.
Don’t shy away from prints on either piece – just not both at once! A leopard blouse with solid black pants or a cream top with striped wide-legs makes a statement while remaining office-appropriate. Pointed-toe flats or low heels complete this look perfectly.
5. Button-Down Shirt With Ankle Pants
Sometimes the classics just work. A crisp button-down shirt paired with ankle-length pants creates a clean, professional look that never goes out of style. Skip the stiff cotton shirts that wrinkle instantly and opt for no-iron or slightly stretchy fabrics. Rolling the sleeves to just below the elbow adds a relaxed touch.
Ankle pants should fit comfortably at the waist and taper slightly toward the hem – neither skinny nor wide-leg. This combo works with practically any color combination. My go-to is a light blue shirt with navy pants for a subtle tonal effect. Add loafers or ballet flats and you’ve got an outfit that works for any day of the week.
6. Wrap Dress With Low Heels
The wrap dress deserves its legendary status in workwear. This single piece solves the “what to wear” dilemma instantly and flatters absolutely everyone. The wrapped waist creates definition while the V-neck elongates without showing too much.
Choose a knee-length style in a medium-weight fabric that won’t cling or blow around. Solid colors work best for conservative offices, but subtle prints can add personality. Low block heels (2 inches or less) provide height without sacrificing comfort. For cooler days, layer with a fitted blazer or cardigan. This might be the easiest outfit on the list – just one decision and you’re dressed for success.
7. Structured Cardigan With Slim Trousers
Forget those flimsy, shapeless cardigans! A structured cardigan – the kind with a defined shape and substantial fabric – paired with slim trousers creates a polished alternative to the traditional blazer look. Look for cardigans with interesting details like contrast trim, subtle patterns, or architectural closures. Slim trousers should hit at the ankle and have a clean line without being tight. The combination feels approachable yet professional.
Layer a simple shell or cami underneath that matches either the cardigan or pants. This outfit works especially well in creative offices or for days when you’ll be at your desk most of the time. It strikes that perfect balance between comfort and professionalism.
8. Monochrome Outfit With Pointed Flats
Wearing a single color from head to toe is my favorite styling trick when I need to look instantly pulled together. The monochrome approach creates a lengthening effect and appears thoughtfully curated even when it took minutes to assemble. Navy, gray, or camel work beautifully for this approach.
Mix textures within your chosen color to add dimension – perhaps a silk top with wool pants or a knit dress with a leather belt. The magic happens in these subtle texture variations. Pointed flats in a complementary neutral ground the look while keeping things comfortable. This outfit strategy works for any body type and can be adapted for any season – just vary the weight of your fabrics accordingly.
9. Turtleneck With A-Line Skirt
This combination channels vintage secretary vibes but with a modern twist. A slim-fitting turtleneck paired with an A-line skirt creates a balanced silhouette that works for most body types. Fine-gauge turtlenecks in merino wool or cotton-blend are most flattering – nothing too bulky.
The A-line skirt should hit at or just below the knee with a defined waist. This pairing works in any color combination, though I’m partial to a black turtleneck with a patterned skirt. Add tights and ankle boots in colder months or bare legs and slingbacks when it’s warmer. This outfit feels slightly retro while remaining thoroughly professional – perfect for days when you want to stand out subtly.
10. Sleeveless Blouse With Culottes
Summer office dressing just got easier! A sleeveless blouse paired with culottes keeps you cool while maintaining professional standards. The key is choosing elevated fabrics and proper fit. Your sleeveless top should have a higher neckline and structured shoulders – nothing that resembles a tank top. Culottes should hit mid-calf and flow away from the body without being voluminous.
The combination creates a modern, architectural silhouette. Keep a lightweight blazer or cardigan at your desk for chilly air conditioning. This outfit works especially well with minimal jewelry and clean-lined sandals or mules. It’s my go-to for summer client meetings when I want to look composed despite the heat.
11. Cropped Blazer With High-Waist Pants
Regular blazers are great, but a cropped version paired with high-waisted pants creates a fresh, contemporary silhouette. This combination elongates your legs while maintaining professional polish. Look for a cropped blazer that hits right at your natural waist – not too short! High-waisted pants should rise to your actual waist (not your hips) and can be wide-leg, straight, or slightly tapered.
The proportions create a flattering hourglass effect. A simple shell or fitted top underneath keeps the focus on your silhouette. This outfit works especially well for presentations or networking events where you want to make a memorable impression without looking flashy. It’s professional with a fashion-forward edge.
12. Silk Shirt With Cigarette Pants
Some combinations just feel expensive. A silk (or good silk-alternative) button-down paired with slim cigarette pants creates an effortlessly luxe look that works in even the most conservative offices. The drape of silk against the structure of tailored pants creates beautiful contrast. Choose a slightly oversized silk shirt for a modern feel, and make sure your cigarette pants hit right at the ankle with a clean break.
This pairing works in any color combination, though tone-on-tone looks especially sophisticated. Skip chunky jewelry with this look – the elegance comes from simplicity. A good leather belt and quality shoes (loafers or simple pumps) are all you need to complete this timeless outfit.
13. Belted Shirtdress With Block Heels
The shirtdress is basically a secret weapon for busy mornings. This one-piece wonder looks intentional and put-together with minimal effort – just add a belt and shoes! Choose a knee-length style with a collar and button front in a medium-weight fabric that holds its shape. The belt should create definition at your natural waist – either self-fabric or a complementary leather one.
Block heels provide stability and comfort for all-day wear. This outfit works in any solid color or subtle pattern. For cooler days, layer with a fitted cardigan or light jacket. I love this look for days packed with meetings – it transitions well between different audiences and keeps me comfortable from morning to evening.
14. Twinset With Tailored Shorts
Summer in the office calls for creative solutions! A matching short-sleeve sweater and cardigan (the classic twinset) paired with tailored Bermuda shorts creates a polished warm-weather option. The key is length and fit – shorts should hit just above the knee and be cut like dress pants, not casual shorts.
The twinset adds a layer of refinement that balances the casualness of shorts. Together, they create a surprisingly sophisticated outfit. Neutral or tan pumps elongate the leg line. This combination works best in creative or business-casual environments during summer months. It’s my favorite way to stay cool while looking professional when temperatures soar.
15. Fine Knit Sweater With Midi Skirt
There’s something so elegant about the combination of a fine knit sweater and a flowing midi skirt. The contrast between the fitted top and movement below creates visual interest while remaining completely office-appropriate. Choose a lightweight sweater that skims rather than clings – merino wool or cotton blends work year-round. The midi skirt should hit mid-calf with some movement in the fabric.
Pleated styles or A-line cuts work beautifully here. This pairing transitions easily between seasons with simple shoe changes – pumps or flats in warmer months, boots when it’s cooler. It’s my favorite outfit for days when I need to feel put-together but comfortable enough to focus on important work.
16. Vest With Trousers And Blouse
Borrowing from menswear can yield surprisingly feminine results! A tailored vest paired with wide-leg trousers and a silky blouse creates a sophisticated outfit with architectural appeal. The vest should fit snugly but not tight, hitting at your hip or slightly below. Choose trousers in the same fabric for a suit-like effect, or mix materials for more creative environments.
A lightweight blouse with some drape balances the structure of the vest. This combination feels authoritative without being stuffy – perfect for presentations or important meetings. It works beautifully in neutrals but can be stunning in unexpected colors like burgundy or forest green. Just remember: the vest is the star, so keep accessories minimal.
17. Jumpsuit With Blazer
The jumpsuit-blazer combo might be my favorite modern take on business casual. This unexpected pairing brings playfulness to professional settings while maintaining appropriate coverage. Choose a jumpsuit with a higher neckline and straight or wide legs – nothing too fitted or casual.
Adding a well-tailored blazer instantly elevates the jumpsuit to office-appropriate territory. The combination creates a streamlined silhouette with minimal effort. This outfit works best in solid neutrals with complementary colors – perhaps a navy jumpsuit with a gray blazer. Keep jewelry simple and add structured shoes like loafers or block heels. It’s my go-to for days when I want to feel distinctive yet professional.
18. Classic White Shirt With Plaid Pants
Some combinations never fail. A crisp white button-down paired with plaid or checked trousers creates a perfect balance between timeless and trendy. The white shirt should be well-fitted but not tight, preferably in a cotton blend that resists wrinkles. Plaid pants add personality while remaining office-appropriate – look for subtle patterns in neutral tones rather than bold colors.
The pattern adds interest while the classic shirt keeps things professional. This outfit works with nearly any shoe style – loafers for a preppy vibe, pumps for more formal offices, or even white sneakers for creative environments. It’s my reliable choice when I want to look pulled-together without overthinking.
19. Knit Dress With Belt And Ankle Boots
One-and-done dressing at its finest! A simple knit dress cinched with a belt and paired with ankle boots creates an effortless yet polished look that works year-round. Choose a substantial knit that holds its shape – nothing too clingy or thin. The dress should hit at or below the knee with a modest neckline. Adding a belt creates definition and makes the outfit look more intentional.
Ankle boots add an edge that keeps the look from feeling too sweet. This combination works in any color, though darker shades tend to look more professional. Add tights in colder months for warmth without sacrificing style. It’s my favorite outfit for busy days when comfort and professionalism are equally important.