Joseph Tang she is the editor of Who What Wear where she lives and is the fashion director of a Canadian department store Holt Renfrewwhere he directs the direction of fashion and style for women’s and men’s businesses.
The new year calls for a style reset, including your work wardrobe. Figuring out what to wear to work shouldn’t feel like a chore every day. As we enter the new year, going back to the office or re-entering the office is a good time to rethink the way you dress for work. The goal is pieces that feel as comfortable as they look put together.
When it comes to business casual wear, I always prioritize soft, breathable fabrics, relaxed silhouettes that feel purposeful and unfussy, and enough forward detailing to feel real without veering into fashion victim territory. Whether you’re dialing in virtual meetings from home or going to a meeting room, choosing the right style can make dressing up feel low-effort but very thoughtful. Ahead, I share four simple style hacks I rely on to elevate a casual business wardrobe—no overthinking required.
1. Wear a Tie
(Photo credit: Joseph Tang)
(Photo credit: Joseph Tang)
Inspired by Jonathan Anderson’s first collection for Dior, the tie is re-introduced with a casual, off-duty feel that feels perfect for modern business. It’s worn more casually, adding a subtle twist to the ongoing pre-prep revival. Style with a fine gauge quarter-zip, and toughen up the look with black wash denim for a dress that feels polished yet effortless, whether you’re heading to a casual office or dialing in a client meeting.
Thom Browne
Merino Wool 4-Bar Funnel Neck Pullover
Polo Ralph Lauren
Silk Striped Club Tie Repp
Eton
Shiny Shirt With Light Green Pattern
Rag & Bone
Fit 4 Workwear Straight Jeans
ANDERSON
Leather Belt With Metal Tip
Zegna
Dark Brown Leather and Suede Triple Stitch™ Monte Sneakers
2. Alternative Jacket
(Photo credit: Joseph Tang)
(Photo credit: Joseph Tang)
Sometimes a coat can feel too formal in certain settings, but the look still needs a finishing layer. The field jacket is a simple alternative that works seamlessly inside and out. Choose a modern fabric such as a denim-wool blend, which provides structure and texture while remaining polished and professional in a business-casual environment.
Theory
Turtleneck Cardigan in boiled wool
Theory
5-Pocket Regular Pant in Brushed Corduroy
Robert Barakett
Barakett Tee
The row
Nobilis Shoe Boot in Leather
The row
Sisal Backpack on Cotton Canvas
3. A Close-Up Sweater
(Photo credit: Joseph Tang)
(Photo credit: Joseph Tang)
When you work from home, it’s easy to fall back into leisure activities. Instead, choose a sweater that provides the same comfort as a hoodie but provides visual interest for formal meetings. Look for refined knits or subtle prints that read polished on camera.
Measure up the comfort by swapping sweats for a fluid, wide-leg pant in a soft linen blend. The result feels relaxed but purposeful. Pro tip: Break out the new loafers at home and trade in the fuzzy slippers for a mini boat shoe to keep you comfortable while maintaining your work-ready look from the waist down.
Studio Nicholson
Line Pant in Espresso
ANDERSON
Leather Belt With Metal Tip
THE COACH
Novus Leather Boat Shoes
4. Choose a Statement Jacket
(Photo credit: Joseph Tang)
(Photo credit: Joseph Tang)
Splitting suits is an easy way to add personality to a casual business wardrobe. A coat paired with brown linen brings structure and polish, but the look feels more relaxed when styled with a wool silk braid instead of a traditional shirt. To balance out the tailored top layer, finish with refined cargo pants that add a modern, practical edge while keeping the rest of the outfit work-appropriate.
GOOD
Wool-Blend Roundneck Sweater
GOOD
Tapered Cargo Pants
Thom Browne
Poly Twill Pocket Tote
THE COACH
Novus Leather Boat Shoes
BOTTEGA VEETA
Intreccio leather belt
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