His + Hers Fall Workwear

Ever since launching my Wear to Work series last June, we been surprised to see how many requests we receive for work appropriate attire. And though the traditional workplace looks so different these days, Austin and I wanted to share how we build an office-friendly capsule wardrobe. Whether you’re in the office or meeting with a client, we all have those moments where we need to dress the part. But sporting a more professional look doesn’t mean your outfit has to be boring. I always encourage you to still express your personal style. It simply needs to be a bit more “fine tuned” than your Saturday brunch wear.

Many of you know that before I started The Teacher Diva full time, I was a first grade teacher. My workwear was less formal and consisted of comfortable pants, flat shoes (or the occasional low heel if I was feeling up for it), and flowy tops. But now, my work days look a bit different. Whether that’s pitching a brand or grabbing coffee with a colleague, I have a few staples that I reach for when heading to “the office.” Austin’s work is mostly business professional, but his IT department usually gets away with a more casual look.

Creating a capsule wardrobe means making smarter purchases and looking for pieces you can mix and match with clothing you already have hanging in your closet.

For me, my number one is a white blouse. You guys know I love my Equipment Signature Blouse but honestly, it took me years before finally making the investment. I’ve had it for going on two years now, and I literally wear it two or three times a month. It’s a year round staple that I can wear with jeans, black trousers, under a slip dress… you get the idea. Now let’s be clear. You don’t have to go spending $200 on a top for it to be considered a “staple” but, you do want to look for quality fabrics and trusted brands that will hold up wear after wear. I read several reviews and tried it on quite a few times in store before purchasing this blouse. These high-waisted culottes on the other hand, were a trendy option. But I love them so! We are seeing cropped trousers everywhere and these are a great neutral to wear with your favorite blouse or sweater this fall. For something more office-casual, I would pair it with a chambray blouse and these loafers. We all like to be comfortable in the office and these pants offer comfort yet still remain sophisticated.

For Austin, he likes to maintain a professional look that can be dressed up or down for the occasion. The Slim Fit Sport Plaid shirt is a perfect example of something that can be dressed professionally when paired with chinos like the Bonobos Straight Fit Washed Pants and these Cross Road Plain Toe Derby shoes. If it’s casual Friday, the shirt still works and he can easily swap the pants out for jeans. Austin really likes the Nordstrom Men’s Brand for shirts. He was hesitant at first, because he hadn’t heard much about the shirt style or brand. But after looking at the available styles and trying on the fits, he could immediately attest to their quality. The shirt is also non-iron, which is great for those busy mornings.

Thanks for stopping by! xx Ashley + Austin

OUTFIT DETAILS:

His: Nordstrom Men’s Shop Slim Fit Sport Plaid Shirt | Bonobos Straight Fit Washed Pants | Rodd & Gunn Cross Road Plain Toe Derby | Cole Haan Leather Belt

Hers: Equipment Signature Silk Shirt (fit: I am wearing a small. This has a relaxed fit) | Leith Crop Pants (fit: tts, I am in a small) | Linea Paolo Block Heel Mule (surprising very comfortable) | Karen Walker Sunglasses | MICHELE Sidney Diamond Watch Case | MICHELE Bracelet Watch Band |  Similar Bag: ZAC Zac Posen ‘Eartha’ Soft Top Handle Satchel