This is how I built my daily uniform for work

Professional doesn’t have to mean boring.

As a kid, I used to dream about growing up and getting all dressed up for my nine-to-five. I’d be a hotshot magazine editor or work for some cool publishing house, spending my mornings putting outfits together in my walk-in robe before grabbing a coffee and wandering into work all fresh and stylish and coordinated. Growing up on a combination of Devil Wears Prada, Legally Blonde and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days will do that to you.

After spending the last three or so years as a young professional, I eventually came to the realisation getting dressed for work is not the fun pastime I thought it was going to be. Don’t get me wrong – as someone who is very much into fashion, I love putting outfits together. But coupled with the million other decisions I have to make daily (Oat cap or soy matcha? Stay in on Friday night or go out?), it can get exhausting.

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So, I came up with the perfect formula for building my capsule wardrobe for work. While there are some days I’ll wear something a little more fun or casual, I’ve found making sure my wardrobe has the following items a whole lot easier when I open those closet doors.

Head to the op shop for classic-cut pants and blazers

The best pair of pants I ever purchased was a $16 pair of grey wool pants from the local op shop. They were made in Italy and stashed on the wrong rack in the men’s section. While golden finds like these can take a couple of attempts to discover, vintage cuts found in the men’s section of secondhand shops are a solid bet.

 

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If you’re living in a cold climate (hello, Melburnians), look out for wool or wool blend items. Preferably from Europe, though you can find some good vintage pieces from local brands like Fletcher Jones. Head to the sports jacket section for blazers with that timeless boxy fit, and peruse the knit rack for vests.

Of course, if you’re looking for more of a special piece, Acne tailoring, Jil Sander pieces and practically anything from The Frankie Shop or E Nolan are your best bets.

Get mid-range basics

While I’ve been known to splash out on an Arnsdorf, Ganni or Marni number, there are good options for mid-range tops that uphold ethical standards, too. Brands like Vege Threads and Kowtow sling quality basics for a good price-per-wear amount. If you’re looking to add pops of colour and get a little more premium, grab a silk shirt from Caves Collect or a knit from Kloke.

Invest in high-quality bags and shoes

Bags and shoes are the two items it really pays to invest in. I’m not saying to go out and buy the latest designer bag to take with you to work each day. But purchasing from a brand that values quality will mean you’ll replace your work bag way less often.

 

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My personal favourite is the MM6 Maison Margiela Japanese tote bag, which easily fits my lunch, laptop, water bottle and gym clothes if I’ve got a class after work. If you’re more into backpacks, Republic of Florence does some really cute, classic styles.

When it comes to shoes, I’m either in loafers or sneakers – leader of the comfy shoe gang, right over here. My favourite pair of loafers are actually an op shop find (sorry!), but there are so many great loafer brands out there at a range of price points, like Radical Yes and Camper (just make sure they’re leather).

Alternatively, head to the op shop and look out for any ex-Nonna and Nonno loafers. If I’m wearing sneakers, I’ll go with New Balance for a neutral tone, or throw on a pair of Asics for a more colourful, sporty vibe.

Style it up with fun jewellery

Capsule wardrobes don’t have to be completely monochromatic or void of little personal touches. While I’m not a massive makeup person (purely because I’m not the best at it, but that’s another story), I do like adding fun jewellery to my outfits, to let my style shine through just that little bit more. Sacreflux, Alix Yang, Cleopatra’s Bling and Saint Valentine all sling cute items, from classic sterling silver numbers to chunky wares with pops of colours and jewels.

For more on building a work uniform, head here.