A week in work outfits with Sydney-based fashion designer, Emma Mulholland

Always varied, never boring.

Working in a creative role, it can be difficult to know how to dress for the day. Instead of having a set uniform of crisp white shirts and tailored black pants (as much as I love both), an ever-changing schedule means every morning requires a set of questions. Am I running around, or just sitting at my desk? Do I need to dress specifically for a project? And most importantly, will I be in the background of someone’s TikTok?

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As Founder of the much-loved eponymous fashion label, Emma Mulholland on Holiday, every day looks different for Emma Mulholland. Between photo shoots, Zoom calls, meetings and testing product samples, her work wardrobe is always varied but never boring. Staying true to the label’s signature colourful, nostalgic aesthetic, Em’s office outfits always have an element of whimsy.

For Em, her wardrobe needs to be functional, fun and adaptable to Sydney’s ever-changing weather – making denim and light layers a staple. Her wardrobe is made up of her own designs, streetwear pieces and vintage finds. Read on to see how she’s styled her work outfits.

Monday

Mondays are always super busy at the office getting set up for the week. Taking advantage of the in-between seasonal weather as a chance to try out this new EM on Holiday blazer, with my Kokomo Denim Jeans and vintage Salvatore Ferragamo satin shoes that just arrived from The RealReal. Norby my dog hiding in the shot has a new haircut and blow dry!

Tuesday

On Tuesday we are shooting our new collection, so I need to be super comfortable – the boiler suit is perfect for days when I’m running around and need to feel comfortable, but still put together. I’m wearing Adidas Sambas and a Prada cross-body bag to keep everything on me while I’m on the go.

Wednesday

Sydney weather is a little chaotic at the moment, [and] it’s super hot today. We are back in the office so I’m trying out one of our new summer dresses. This one is super light and breezy, and I’m matching it back with my new red shoes by Maritiano. I’m obsessed with red socks, shoes [and] stockings at the moment.

Thursday

Today, I’m running back and forth from meetings all day. I’m wearing The Em on Holiday black-on-black mini skirt with a vintage Laura Ashley blouse and Marni Sandals. I got this very cute vintage Prada nylon bag for my birthday, which is super easy to match back with all my outfits. Norby’s look is a little more dishevelled today, as he has been at the beach all morning.

Friday

Back to cooler weather. I’ve got a design day today and a few Zoom calls, so I’m wearing a cardigan set which has definitely become my most-worn style from our new collection. I’m wearing the Kokomo Jeans (these are probably the most worn pieces in my wardrobe) and matching [them] back with some olive Marni sandals, which are definitely on their last legs but I’m struggling to part with [them].