A week in work outfits with tech account manager, Elena Kingham

“If an outfit isn’t interesting through colour, it should be interesting through shape or texture.”

It’s never easy trying to come up with new outfit combinations for the working week. Instead of having a set uniform, 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? nd what am I meant to do when my favourite pants are in the wash?

Given that it can be a daily struggle, we’re asking our favourite local creatives for outfit inspiration. This week, we’re digging through the wardrobe of one of the most stylish corporate girls we know: Elena Kingham. Known for documenting her outfits on TikTok, she’s proof that “working in tech doesn’t have to mean boring outfits”.

For more fashion news, shoots, articles and features, head to our Fashion section.

Based in Melbourne, Elena works as a Tech Account Manager at Square, a business technology platform. Her day-to-day changes, with some requiring her to lock in at the office, while others involve in-person meetings and seller visits.

“After working in PR agencies, moving back into tech has also given me more space to lean into creative outlets outside of work, one of them being how I dress and sharing that online,” Elena says. Opting to add pops of colour and texture, her outfits are an enviable mix of op shop finds, vintage designer and investment pieces. Read on to see how she gets dressed for a typical week.

Monday

The mantra behind my office style is chic with a pop of fun. Melbourne gave us a nice crisp, sunny day on Monday, so I took the chance to wear this gorgeous Veronika Maine top I picked up from the National Trust Vintage Market. I’ve paired it with a pleated grey skirt I found in Japan and my trusty A.P.C. ballet flats – they genuinely haven’t left my feet since I bought them. I added brown Uniqlo socks for some contrast and threw on a simple grey Jil Sander jacket, another great Japan find.

Work wise, Mondays are usually a mix of internal meetings and client calls. There’s a big focus at the moment on how we’re using AI within the business, so that’s been a consistent thread throughout my days, which is equally exciting and slightly scary when you realise just how much we’re able to automate and build with it already.

Tuesday

This outfit feels very me. I once read that if an outfit isn’t interesting through colour, it should be interesting through shape or texture… and I feel like this is a good example of that! The shirt is from a Japanese brand called Studious and has the best boxy fit, plus straps on both sides so you can style it multiple ways (I love anything that makes my purchases go further). The skirt is vintage Vivienne Westwood, and I fell in love with the gaping detail.

I’ve worn it with a Flore Flore navy tank underneath and added my Bailey Nelson frames, which instantly make everything feel office-ready. And yes the A.P.C. flats are back again. My bag is also A.P.C., perfect for lighter days because it only really fits my laptop! Not my most practical purchase.

I spent most of Tuesday out doing seller visits and meeting businesses in person, which is always nice after so many online interactions. It makes everything feel a bit more human.

Wednesday

Happy hump day! I went straight from Pilates to the office, so this outfit needed to be practical, comfortable and still put together. This Pan After plaid bag has been a lifesaver lately. It fits everything (Mary Poppins level) but still looks cute.

I brought this navy trench with me to throw on once I got to work. It’s from Camilla and Marc and has carried me through a few seasons now. I’ve paired it with these pink pinstripe capris I picked up from Goodbyes – they feel very French, which I love. I also popped on a Buddy pink baby T-shirt for a little colour blocking. I have these tees in a few different shades, and they’re always on high rotation.

Wednesdays are usually busier in the office – we get lunch catered, which is one of the perks of working for a big company! This also means more people around the office, so I’ll often book a room for a couple of hours to properly lock in and focus.

Thursday

Another skirt and top combination – clearly a theme in my wardrobe but the real hero are these Dico Copenhagen boots. They’re my go-to coming into the cooler months and I’m already getting so much wear.

I’m a big believer in investing in high-quality pieces that last. If I know I’m going to wear something on repeat, the cost per wear always justifies it (girl math). I’ve styled them with a grey pleated skirt (an old op shop find), a butter yellow poplin shirt for a soft pop of colour and my Jil Sander jacket. These pieces are super versatile, and I find myself mixing and matching them throughout my wardrobe regularly.

We had calls today with the international team in New York, which I always find really valuable. It pushes me to think bigger, learning from people who are at the top of their profession. Thursday is usually a work drinks night, so this outfit worked for both the office and the pub after.

Friday

Friday was a work-from-home day. We have the flexibility to WFH whenever, but I usually prefer going into the office to have a bit of separation between work and home. That said, I still like to get dressed properly at home, even if it’s just slightly more elevated than usual.

I tend to split my day between home and a cafe. I’m a regular at Sunhands and always try to grab a window seat. You can’t go wrong with jeans and a top – these jeans are re-engineered Levi’s and the fit is perfect. I wear them constantly.

I’ve paired them with a black vest from Friends with Frank, which I bought when I first started this job, thinking I’d need more ‘corporate’ pieces. Thankfully, the office is very relaxed, but I’m still glad it’s in my wardrobe.

Keep up with Elena here.