Tips for Curating the Best Work-to-Weekend Transitional Outfits

13:02Alice Grace

tips curating best work to weekend transitional outfits layering ideas versatile pieces accessories

Chances are, if you're stuck in an office working nine to five every week, you're dressing for work instead of play most of the time. But that doesn’t mean you need to have separate wardrobes for your boring corporate wear and fun weekend outfits. Sometimes life dictates that you float from work straight into the weekend without time to run home and get changed first, and no one likes to be caught short. To avoid any style woes, we need to elevate our everyday outfits so that we always feel confident and well put together, no matter the setting. Let's face it, fashion costs money, and fast fashion costs the earth, so what can we do to make our entire wardrobe work for us all the time, whether we're sitting behind a desk or in our favourite bar later that evening, without spending a fortune?

A D - collaborative post

Focus on Versatile Dressing

The secret behind successful dressing at all times can be condensed to a single word: versatility. A versatile piece of clothing should work for any event, albeit with some clever tweaks. First, you have to figure out which key pieces are worth your time and curate a capsule wardrobe of sorts. When shopping, make sure that any new additions to your wardrobe pair well with your existing items. Instead of automatically looking at items that fit your usual style when purchasing new workwear pieces, think of small switches you could make to elevate your everyday wear. For example, rather than wearing flats to the office, opt for a chic heeled boot which is comfortable to walk in during the day but gives you a fancier feel for after work drinks. After all, the cost per wear of items that you can sport during both the week and weekend is significantly less!

There are so many ways to construct a transitional work-to-weekend outfit, but dresses are a great go-to as they can be dressed up or down easily. Maxi dresses are excellent bases for a multifunctional outfit as they require few adjustments to make them evening appropriate as they're pretty much a full outfit in themselves. Not only that, they're comfortable, flattering and forgiving, so you won't feel completely blindsided and either underdressed or overdressed if your plans change unexpectedly.

tips curating best work to weekend transitional outfits layering ideas versatile pieces accessories

Layering and Accessories

It’s the small tweaks, like layering additional pieces or swapping accessories, that transform an outfit. Smart-casual being the operative word for modern office wear (and being a versatile category in itself), getting to grips with some solid smart-casual outfits can be an excellent starting point when looking to master layering. With a lightweight and chic-looking base, you can build layers and accessories to transform your look after work (or remove them after hours if your workplace is particularly conservative). For example, a cashmere cardigan over a simple, fitted t-shirt and trousers might help you to weather the office air-con, but it can be removed for the evening and then worn again when travelling home. A formal sweater worn over a more revealing dress during work hours could then be draped across the shoulders once you've signed out. You just have to be clever about your choices.

As for accessories, it’s jewellery all the way really, isn’t it? Even a delicate necklace can dramatically elevate an otherwise boring work look. A touch of sparkle from some earrings, a statement bracelet or ring stack can be a welcome addition, dressing up a basic outfit. And let's not forget your handbag. Not only can you pack a chic tote full of small elements to spruce yourself up after work, but it can make a statement in itself. A smart crossbody or top handle number says executive, while a designer shoulder or hobo bag combines marketing-department flare with late-night practicality.

Finishing Touches

Knowing that the devil’s in the detail, you can really run with what’s left of your outfit to consider. Simply unbuttoning the top buttons of your work blouse can instantly transform a plain shirt, taking it from day to night. If you've had your hair up and out of your face all day, let it loose. Always carry some perfume in your bag (even a sample) and spritz it on before you head out. Your mood is guaranteed to improve. And we can't forget the power of makeup - a quick slick of red lipstick always works wonders to brighten and is an effortless way to bring a look to life. With a few strategic items and some thoughtful tweaks, you can confidently move from work to weekend without needing to completely overhaul your wardrobe. That, really, is all there is to it!


Do you have any tips for a work-to-weekend style transition?

AGB X

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