8 Chic and Commuter-Friendly Work Outfit Ideas for Women
Well-chosen business attire can definitely make you feel more empowered and confident in the office. The right image and comportment can also leave a positive impression on your co-workers and honor the professional environment of your workplace.
However, it can be hard to dress to the nines when you commute to work. Factors like unpleasant weather, the crowds on public transportation, and the higher risk of getting a fashion faux pas can make it a lot less satisfying to dress up for your job. By the time you arrive at the office, you likely worry about looking haggard and stressed even before you start working.
But the right outfit combinations can help you look fresh while keeping you comfortable, both on your daily commute and during your hectic workday. Here are some outfit ideas for women that are both commuter-friendly and appropriate for work:
1) A Classic Blouse and Trousers Combo
The blouse-and-pants combo is a classic for a reason. This ensemble is comfortable, versatile, and timeless. It shouldn’t give you too much trouble on the train or bus; plus, it’s suitable for various office settings and is easy to add accessories to.
For example, if you own a ruffled, short-sleeved white blouse, you can pair it with cropped khaki trousers for that elegant and professional silhouette. To give the look a tasteful flair, add a statement necklace, single buckle belt, or structured purse.
2) Leggings with a Long Cardigan
Another popular pairing for the modern commuter is a pair of leggings and a long cardigan. Leggings for women will offer you unmatched comfort during your commute, allowing you a full range of motion. The long cardigan, on the other hand, will provide both warmth and style, making it an excellent outer layer when commuting during the cooler months of the year.
This commuter-friendly and office-appropriate combo is easy to style with various tops, shoes, and accessories. Looking for fashion items that go well with your basic black leggings and neutral-colored long cardigan? A fashionable striped button-up dress shirt and a pair of ballet flats will likely do the trick.
3) A Trench Coat, Turtleneck Top, and Jeans
Trench coats and jeans are classic fashion pieces that will add elegance and practicality to your casual work wardrobe. When you throw a turtleneck into the mix, your outfit will gain a touch of refinement that suits the artsy and creative professional. It’ll be perfect when commuting in colder weather because each element will keep you warm and dry. Don’t forget to finish such an outfit with a warm scarf and comfortable boots.
4) A Pencil Skirt and Blouse
For a more feminine ensemble that you can make your all-around workhorse outfit, don a pencil skirt and blouse. Such an outfit will evoke elegance, professionalism, and authority from you all at the same time, making it ideal for companies with a business-casual dress code like those in tech, digital marketing, media, and design. Just make sure to opt for stretchy fabric in the skirt for added ease during your commute, and consider wearing hosiery with your skirt to keep you safe from fashion faux pas.
5) An A-Line Skirt and Knit Top
The A-line skirt and knit top combination will look cozy and elegant at the same time, which makes it ideal for both a commute and a day at the office in the colder seasons. An A-line skirt’s design makes it easier to move and take big strides, whether you’re walking to work or transferring from one public transport stop to another. The top, on the other hand, will give you some much-needed warmth on chilly mornings while giving your ensemble a more fashionable quality.
When choosing an A-line skirt to wear, select a length that corresponds to your workplace’s dress code. Pair this outfit with tights and ankle boots for a look that strikes the perfect balance between polished and laid-back.
6) A Shift Dress
A shift dress is a one-piece wonder that all women commuters should have in their office wardrobe. Not only is it a snooze to put on; it’s also comfortable for sitting or standing during your commute, and you can pair it with equally commuter-friendly flats or low heels.
Choose one that’s knee-length or longer to keep your outfit work-appropriate. If your shift dress is sleeveless, consider wearing a blazer over it to make the ensemble dressier when it needs to be.
7) A Wrap Dress
A wrap dress is another type of dress that’s easy to wear and style on the go. It also boasts a comfortable fit, making it a hassle-free choice for commuting to work. Wrap dresses are universally flattering and suitable for a variety of office settings. They’re especially great for meetings and presentations, and you can’t go wrong with a wrap dress with a modest neckline and hemline.
8) A Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits have gained popularity in the workplace for their chic and put-together appearance. They present a refreshing alternative to traditional office attire while still sticking within the bounds of most office dress codes.
A jumpsuit is the perfect one-and-done outfit for busy mornings that you spend on the bus or train. Choose one with a cinched waist to achieve a flattering silhouette, or have one tailored to suit your body type for added comfort during your commute. To keep it professional, get the type that comes in a solid neutral color or subtle pattern, and vary its appearance with simple accessories like a gold bib necklace or universally flattering layers like a boyfriend blazer.
It can be challenging to look put together for work if you’ve already spent a portion of your morning commuting. Walking or taking public transport will make it hard to wear an outfit that’s too flashy or that has too many components. But as evidenced by the outfit ideas on this list, it’s totally possible to be comfortable and stylish during your commute—and to look perfectly poised when it’s time to get to work!
