What to Wear to Work in Fall 2024

Swapping out summer’s light, breezy fabrics for crisp, cozy layers always feels like an opportunity to reinvest myself, and fall is my favorite time of year to freshen up my wardrobe, especially workwear. Autumn lets you infuse your work wardrobe with rich textures, deep colors, and structured pieces that make you look and feel your best. So whether you’re back in the office full-time or rocking the remote work life, this guide will help you stay polished and on-trend for fall 2024.

1. Oversized shirt dresses

Oversized button-up shirt dresses are back in a big way this fall. They have that effortlessly put-together vibe, and they’re incredibly versatile: dress them up with a belt that cinches the waist, or leave them loose for a laidback, relaxed feel. Pair them with leggings on cooler days, or go bare-legged with boots when the weather surprises you with a warm spell.

Whether you go for a classic shirt dress – white, navy, or black – or embrace the season with rich autumnal hues – like deep burgundy, forest green, or warm brown – you’ll turn heads in the best way possible.

2. Wide-leg pants

Wide-leg pants continue to dominate the fall fashion scene, and it’s easy to see why:

• They create a flattering, balanced silhouette for a variety of body types. The wide cut elongates the legs and shifts focus away from the hips, creating a proportional look.
• Unlike their restrictive skinny counterparts, wide-leg pants offer freedom of movement – comfort and fun!
• They’re incredibly versatile, seamlessly transitioning from casual Fridays to formal settings depending on how you style them.
• You can pair them with just about anything in your closet, from button-up blouses to bodysuits to tank tops. They work beautifully with boots, flats, or heels, making them a fit for any work environment.

Wide-leg pants exude an elevated, sophisticated vibe perfect for the office. They have a polished look without compromising comfort, making them a must-have for fall workwear.

P.S. Pair your wide-leg pants with a Breton sweater for a nod to the prep school style trend that’s particularly chic this fall 2024.

3. Prep school style

Get ready to channel your inner Blair Waldorf this fall because “prep school style” is having a moment. This style is about blending classic, collegiate-inspired pieces with a modern flair, juxtaposing youthful charm with professional polish. Think structured blazers, pleated skirts, loafers, crisp button-down shirts, and Breton sweaters.

To nail this look, start with a crisp button-down top and a pleated skirt or wide-leg trousers. Layering is key to prep school style, so add a Breton sweater or knit vest, and top it off with a neutral or patterned blazer. Add loafers or Mary Janes for that classic academic touch, and don’t forget the accessories, like a leather satchel, headband, or silk scarf.

4. Midi-skirts and -dresses

Midi-length skirts and dresses are timeless staples that are flattering and professional. This fall, we’re seeing them in various fabrics – from lightweight satin to thick wool – and styles – classic A-line to wrap style.

Pair your midi skirt with sweaters, blazers, button-ups, or bodysuits for endless styling options. For a touch of nostalgia, add a pair of Mary Jane flats – another of fall 2024’s biggest trends. This combo bridges the gap between playfulness and sophistication in a way that’s sure to make you stand out.

5. Sweater blazers

Work-from-home has blurred the lines between loungewear and office attire, and sweater blazers are the perfect in-between. They offer the cozy feel of your favorite sweatshirt with the refinement of traditional blazers. Sweater blazers are great for layering, offering warmth and style in a relaxed way. And they’re a perfect fit with the trending prep school style, pairing beautifully with wide-leg trousers, midi skirts, and Mary Janes.

6. Denim suiting

Denim suiting is making a bold statement this fall, blending the casual simplicity of denim with the sophistication of a tailored suit. This brings a fresh and approachable vibe to more traditional work suits. Denim blazers are an exciting and unique way to stand out in casual work settings.

Choose darker denim for a more formal look or lighter washes for a relaxed, weekend-ready vibe. Pair a denim blazer with a simple bodysuit for a clean aesthetic, a Breton sweater for a prep school vibe, or a vintage tee for an effortlessly cool look.

7. Sneakers with workwear

Sneakers are officially stepping into the world of workwear. If the rest of your workwear leans formal, sneakers will create a striking contrast that’s both fashionable and comfortable – you’ll make a statement without sacrificing professionalism. The key to pulling off sneakers in a professional setting is to choose sleek, minimalist designs and neutral colors, like classic white sneakers.

8. Mary Jane flats

In keeping with the prep school style for fall 2024, Mary Janes are making a comeback this fall, blending classic charm with modern flair. Known for their signature strap across the instep, these shoes exude a timeless, feminine appeal that works well for tons of different aesthetics. Traditionally associated with school uniforms and childhood nostalgia, Mary Janes are now evolving into a versatile fashion staple for adults as well.

This season, you’ll find Mary Janes available in assorted designs, from sleek, minimalist looks to more whimsical styles featuring embellishments like buckles, studs, and pearls. Whether you’re aiming for a preppy look or something more eclectic, Mary Janes are the perfect shoe to round out your fall 2024 wardrobe.

9. Structured boots

If Mary Janes aren’t your style, you might be happy to know structured boots are also back on the fall scene. Combining style with practicality, structured boots add a polished, autumnal touch to your workwear. Unlike slouchy or loose-fitting boots, structured ones have a defined shape that’s ideal for the office.

For fall 2024, knee-highs are particularly trendy, especially paired with oversized shirt dresses and tailored coats. If knee-highs aren’t you’re thing, we’re also seeing ankle boots with wide-leg jeans and midi skirts.

10. Colorful workwear

Colorful workwear is revolutionizing office fashion this fall 2024. Departing from the neutral and minimalist tones of past seasons, vibrant colors will reenergize your wardrobe. Fashion-forward professionals are leveraging the power of fashion psychology and color to reflect personality, enhance mood, and boost confidence in the workplace.

There are tons of ways to make color work for your wardrobe. Bold colors like jewel tones – emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red – convey sophistication and authority, making them perfect for meetings or presentations. Soft pastels – butter yellow, lavender, blush pink – add warmth and approachability to your look. Feeling adventurous? Mix and match complementary colors for a dynamic look, like pairing a forest green skirt with a burgundy blouse or a mustard yellow blazer with navy trousers. Don’t forget colorful accessories that tie the whole outfit together!

Colorful workwear is about expressing your individuality while maintaining a polished, professional appearance. This season, let your work wardrobe reflect your personality and creativity by experimenting with vibrant, mood-boosting colors that make you stand out.

Fall 2024 workwear trends

As fall 2024 rolls in and the leaves start to turn, it's the perfect time to refresh your work wardrobe. Whether you’re drawn to the sharp lines of structured boots, the nostalgic charm of Mary Janes, the prep school vibe of a Breton sweater and shirt dress, or the vibrant energy of colorful workwear, there are countless ways to make a statement at the office this season.

Fall 2024 is about embracing your individuality while prioritizing comfort and elegance. So, have a little fun with your fashion choices—after all, your work wardrobe should be as dynamic, confident, and inspiring as you are!

Ready to upgrade your wardrobe for fall 2024? Consignment shopping is a budget-friendly way to update your work wardrobe and stay on-trend this season. Shop Current Boutique’s hottest trends for high-quality, designer pieces at a fraction of their original price.

Photo Sources

Oversized shirt dress, Wide leg pants, Prep school style, Midi Skirt, Sweater blazer, Denim suit, Sneakers, Mary Jane flats, Boots, Colorful workwear