The days when work meant dressing up in a suit, heading out the door with a briefcase, and driving to an office have changed.
The rise of remote work during the pandemic shook up our routines, and now, as more companies urge employees to return to the office (RTO), both workplace fashion and culture are shifting in some surprising ways.
Sweatpants vs "Business Comfort"
Who of us in 2020 preferred wearing pajamas or sweatpants during our Zoom meetings?
As most are returning to the workspaces, you may be wondering, "What should I wear?" Do I have to go back to strict business attire, or has something changed for good?
Well, it seems the answer is a bit of both. The traditional office dress code we've been accustomed to is evolving. Rules are changing in the workspace, blending comfort with professionalism.
Looking the part is a thing of the past; it's all about feeling comfortable and confident all day long.
What to Expect "RTO Fashion" to Look Like?
- Professional Looking Stretchy pants—non-binding trousers or "work-appropriate" leggings.
- Crocheted tops and blazers—these give a cozy vibe but still look polished.
- Sneakers instead of heels—stylish, supportive, and practical for commuting.
- Relaxed silhouettes—gone are the days of stiff, tight suits for many office workers.
Oddly enough, huge retail businesses like Banana Republic and Abercrombie & Fitch are responding with entire lines dedicated to "power casual" looks.
They know people want the look between professional office attire and cozy homewear.
Why Office Fashion Matters for Company Culture
Fashion still dictates what we wear at work and impacts how we feel and how we interact with each other.
Clothes has its own "silent language" at the workplace. The suit days sent a quiet message of formality and even a bit of distance. Now a more relaxed dress code sends the message of openness and creativity.
We are all different and have different needs; some professionals miss having a clear “uniform.” For them, structure means order and stability.
Having clear rules made it easier—and in some ways, it can make you feel more prepared for the day.
What is your preference? Clear guidelines, or more freedom?
New Office Environment: RTO is Changing More Than Just Our Clothes
The return to the office (RTO) isn’t just about updating our wardrobes. Office culture itself is changing.
As companies open their office spaces, they’re rethinking everything from meeting formats to coffee breaks—sometimes even how office spaces look and function.
The Blending of Old and New
Pre-pandemic office life followed certain unwritten rules. Post-pandemic, there’s less pressure to conform. So what if you need a break to walk your dog? Maybe that’s okay now.
Want to take a meeting outdoors or join in with joggers on Friday? In some workplaces, that’s become the norm.
But this freedom is not universal. Some industries still expect a more buttoned-up look or want employees in the office most days.
- Tech firms often have looser dress codes and more flexible schedules.
- Finance and law are usually more traditional in both dress and attendance.
- Creative fields may embrace individuality and personal style even more than before.
Fashion as a Form of Belonging
Clothes have their own "feeling," too—they help us feel like part of the group. During RTO, some companies are using fashion to bring people together.
For example, on "Sneaker Day," everyone shows off their favorite kicks, or there's a “dress for your mood” challenge to lighten up the week.
Team spirits are rebuilt and combating the awkwardness of transitioning from remote to in-person.
It's like returning back to school after summer break—you want to fit in, but you also want to express yourself. The key is finding that balance!
Adaptation to This New Hybrid Era
As RTO continues, flexibility is key. A one-size-fits-all approach no longer works! Some people love dressing up—others dread it.
Smart companies are responding to the needs of their teams and building cultures that support different needs and personalities.
What Can You Do?
- Open Communication—if you’re unsure about what to wear, don’t be afraid to ask HR or your manager. It's better than accidentally showing up in jeans when everyone else is in blazers.
- Mix and match—invest in a few versatile pieces that work for the office but also feel good if you’re working from home.
- Watch your colleagues— Office fashion trends often start from the ground up. What are others wearing? How do they blend comfort and polish?
- Freedom of expression—even within company guidelines, small touches like a favorite scarf or unique sneakers can make your outfit your own.
The Future: Office Fashion and Culture
So, what can we expect going forward? No one knows for sure. But one thing’s clear: the line between work and home has blurred, and businesses that adapt will thrive.
Fashion is a reflection of culture, and right now, both are all about adaptability, diversity, and comfort.
Have you noticed a shift in your own office? Are people dressing differently, or is the culture changing in bigger ways?
As more companies adjust to hybrid and in-person work models, what we wear—and how we work—will keep evolving.
Shop In Your Closet
Before you rush out to buy a whole new wardrobe for the return to office life, take a moment to shop your own closet. You might be surprised by how many pieces you already own that can transition beautifully into the new "business comfort" dress code.
Here’s what to look for:
-
Stretchy Trousers or Elevated Leggings
Do you have ponte pants, knit trousers, or thicker leggings that look polished but feel like pajamas? These are your new go-tos. -
Blazers That Aren’t Stiff
Dig out your knit or unstructured blazers—especially in neutral colors. They instantly elevate a casual outfit without sacrificing comfort. -
Soft Tops with Texture
Think waffle knits, ribbed sweaters, or even a well-kept sweatshirt in a flattering color. If it looks neat and pairs well with slacks or a midi skirt, it works. -
Comfortable Shoes That Look Sharp
Loafers, minimal sneakers, or ankle boots that have polish without pinching are worth rotating in. Leave the stilettos for now unless you're feeling bold. -
Layer-Friendly Basics
Look for button-downs, camisoles, fitted tees, and light cardigans that layer easily and help you adapt to unpredictable office temps.
If you're missing key items, keep a running list and build your RTO wardrobe slowly. The goal isn’t to overhaul everything—it’s to make thoughtful updates that help you feel confident and comfortable in this new era of work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I have to go back to wearing full business attire now that I’m returning to the office?
A: Not necessarily. Many workplaces are adopting a more flexible “business comfort” or “power casual” approach. Check your company’s updated dress code and look for ways to blend polish with comfort—think blazers with jeans or loafers with tailored joggers.
Q: What if I feel more confident dressing up, but everyone else is casual?
A: Wear what makes you feel most prepared and self-assured. If dressing up boosts your confidence, go for it—but add relaxed pieces to avoid feeling out of place. A structured blazer over a knit dress can strike the perfect balance.
Q: Can I wear sneakers to work now?
A: In many workplaces, yes! Clean, minimal sneakers have become a smart casual staple. Just avoid anything overly sporty or worn out. Think stylish, not gym shoes.
Q: How can I update my wardrobe without spending a lot?
A: Start with your own closet (see “Shop In Your Closet” above). Identify gaps and add just a few versatile items—a polished knit top, a neutral blazer, or comfortable-yet-chic shoes. Focus on layering and mixing pieces you already own.
Q: How do I know what’s appropriate if there’s no clear dress code?
A: Observe what others are wearing. Don’t hesitate to ask your supervisor or HR team for guidance. When in doubt, err on the side of polished but comfortable—clean lines, neutral tones, and thoughtful details go a long way.
Final Thoughts
RTO is about more than just choosing pajamas over pencil skirts. It's a chance to rethink the way we show up—for our jobs, for our teams, and for ourselves.
Whether you lean toward business baseline or “power casual,” the guiding principle is the same:
Dress in a way that makes you feel ready for whatever your workday throws at you.
And who knows? Maybe your new favorite work outfit is out there, just waiting to be discovered.
So next time you’re choosing an outfit for the office, ask yourself, how can I blend comfort, style, and confidence for a workplace that’s changing every day?
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