Power Dressing: A Modern Guide To Business Professional Attire For Women

In the high-stakes game of the corporate milieu, our attire is both our armor and our emblem. Among the kaleidoscope of dress codes, business professional is quintessentially conventional and formal. It’s the uniform—stipulated or not—of most traditional corporate settings. And while a tailored pantsuit and kitten heels are the ordre du jour, if you know the business attire rules, you’ll know where you can add a touch of personal panache. 

The goal of the business professional dress code for women is the dialect to convey credibility and competence before we’ve spoken a word. It’s an opportunity to prove yourself as a reliable colleague through muted tones and conservative cuts. But it’s also a chance to reveal a professional prowess and powerhouse attitude through power dressing.

It’s a tight line to walk, but the woman who powers dresses with fashion failsafes is a force to be reckoned with—both inside and outside the boardroom. 

As modern professionals ourselves (who have worked in corporate jobs for years), we delved into this dress code dialect and how to master it without sporting the same ensemble day after day. We unpacked the dress code in detail when to wear it, and what it entails. We studied generally-accepted style do’s and don’ts—sartorial tips to landing new clients, while holding the highly-coveted title of office fashionista. And we compiled a collection of editor-approved business professional outfits and boss brands to build a capsule business wardrobe worthy of a promotion. 

This is your guide to commanding the boardroom with business professional attire that is both confident and chic. 

What is business professional attire? 

Business attire is a formal dress code for most traditional workplaces and corporate events. It reflects a sense of professionalism and seriousness towards one’s role. Business attire colors are usually neutral or muted, with accessories and accents kept to a minimum. Cuts and silhouettes are modest and conservative. And tailored fits are manufactured from premium, quality materials. 

For women, this typically includes suits, longer dresses, blouses, formal skirts, and closed-toe shoes. (While men typically wear suits, dress shirts, ties, and dress shoes.)

When to wear business professional 

Unless stated otherwise, business professional attire is the implied dress code for corporate offices. So, if you’re uncertain of what to wear for your first day on the job, your safest bet is to stick to the business professional guidelines. The same is true for interviews, where first impressions are crucial. As well as any after-hour work functions, client meetings or presentations. More formal clothes and work outfits portray a serious and committed attitude towards your role and leave little room for criticism. 

Less traditional environments, such as marketing and teaching, may allow for more casual business attire. However, when in doubt, play it safe for your first day in a new space. 

Business professional attire: Style tips 

Navigating the nuanced terrain of modern-day business professional attire requires a blend of traditional ethos and contemporary insight. Here are the do’s and don’ts to ensure your sartorial choices are on point and non-controversial:

Women’s business attire don’ts

• Avoid casual wear: Stereotypically relaxed apparel such as jeans, t-shirts and sneakers are a business professional no-go. Instead, opt for clothes that reflect a more serious attitude. 
• Avoid loud prints or bright colors: Steer clear of loud prints, vibrant hues or any graphics and logos. They can divert attention from what you’re saying and doing in a professional capacity. 
• Avoid excessive accessories and accents: Over-accessorizing can also be distracting. Keep it simple and classy with a sophisticated work bag (check our curated list of the best designer work bags for all our favorites) and inconspicuous footwear.  
• Avoid ill-fitting clothes: Although fashionable, oversized cuts and baggy fits may appear unkempt in an office environment. Ensure your attire is tailored to fit well. 
• Avoid overdone makeup or hairstyles: Maintain a natural or neutral makeup look and ensure your hair is tidy and doesn’t draw attention in any way.  

Women’s business attire do’s

• Go for a tailored fit: A neat, tailored fit exudes professionalism and a keen eye for detail. Ensure your clothes are well-tailored to fit your body shape, neither too tight nor too loose. 
• Go for a neutral palette: Blacks, whites, grays, and navies are your trustworthy allies in carving a professional image. Muted earthy tones and pastels are also appropriate for most business professional settings. 
• Go for conservative cuts: Maintain modesty in the length of skirts, dresses, and necklines. A knee-length skirt or a modest neckline preserves the formal tone.
• Go for quality fabrics: Invest in high-quality, durable fabrics that withstand the test of time and frequent wear. Natural fibers are usually more breathable and prevent sweat marks. And we like to opt for sustainable fabrics whenever we can. 
• Minimal jewelry: Opt for minimal and elegant jewelry. A pair of pearl earrings or a classic watch can add a refined touch without being distracting. 

Building a boss wardrobe: Business professional outfits for women

From tailored suits to power dresses and pleated trousers, these are the building blocks for any business professional wardrobe. 

Business professional suits 

A well-tailored suit is the quintessential cornerstone of any business professional collection. 

A two-piece tailored blazer and knee-length skirt are the more traditional choice for women. But if you prefer to add a slightly androgynous edge to your business ensemble, a pantsuit is considered equally office-appropriate. 

While wool and tweeds are the conventional choice, lighter materials such as linens and cottons are great for achieving that signature polished aesthetic in warmer months. 

Business professional dresses 

These aren’t your summer florals and flowy fits. Business dresses should embody a blend of sophistication and modesty. 

Opt for office dresses with hemlines that fall below, at, or just above the knee. Avoid sleeveless dresses, unless paired with a blazer or jacket. And make sure the neckline is high enough and the fit isn’t skin tight. 

Longer shirt dresses usually tick all the right boxes. Suit dresses add a feminine twist to the traditionally masculine work staple. A-line dresses aren’t too tight. And a knit dress pairs perfectly with heeled boots and hose in winter. 

Business professional blouses 

Blouses are a popular way to nail the professional business dress code with a little more femininity and elegance. A white button-down blouse is a staple and pairs well with any pantsuit or skirt. And silk blouses, in muted monotones like beige, navy or light blue, add a touch of sophistication while maintaining a professional demeanor. 

When it comes to business professional blouses, the options are endless. The key is to opt for tops that aren’t low cut, overly tight or overly embellished. Look for quality fabrics that don’t easily crease and opt for solid colors that don’t attract attention. 

Business professional jackets and blazers

Need to make your everyday ensemble more business professional in a snap? Pop on a collared jacket or blazer.  

A classic choice is a single-breasted blazer in neutral colors like black, navy, or grey, which lends itself to a myriad of styling options—from pencil skirts to pleated trousers. A well-fitted, button-up blazer with a notched lapel is also a timeless choice. While a structured, open-front blazer and a belted-waist blazer are both slightly more contemporary takes on the boardroom classic. 

When it comes to other types of jackets, avoid denims, leathers and anything else that could be considered relaxed or rebellious. 

Business professional dress pants 

Like most business professional attire, tailored dress pants are the way to go. As fashionable as long, drapey pants may be, anything that sweeps the floor isn’t appropriate for the polished dress code. And neither is anything too tight. It may seem obvious, but it’s really important to get the fit right. 

If you do that, it doesn’t really matter whether you opt for straight-leg trousers or slightly tapered versions. For a slightly more modern edge, wide-leg palazzos are a fashionable failsafe. And pleated renditions speak to the borrowed-from-the-boys trend while maintaining an air of office-approved sophistication. 

However, you don’t have to be too strict about it. Any well-tailored pair in neutral shades and high-quality, formal materials (not denim or leather) is usually acceptable. 

Business professional skirts 

While many business professional outfits for women—such as fitted suits and striped shirts— are borrowed from male-dominated boardrooms, tailored skirts are the epitome of formal femininity in the corporate sphere. 

An obvious choice is a pencil skirt, with its straight silhouette ending around the knee. But A-line skirts are also an acceptable way to add your own personality to your office attire. 

Like all business professional attire, the cut should be modest and non-controversial. Slits are only appropriate if they are designed to facilitate movement rather than to show off more leg. And they shouldn’t really extend beyond the knee. 

To style, take your cues from Suits star Meghan Markle and pair with a button-up shirt and cute kitten heels.

Business professional shirts 

If you go into a corporate setting every day, you really can’t have too many business professional shirts. How to pick them? Button-down shirts in solid, pared-back hues are always reliable. But an Oxford pinstripe or polka dot is also a classic, adding a slightly playful edge to an otherwise serious aesthetic. 

Your shirt should always be buttoned up just below the collarbone. It should be crisp, clean and made from high-quality, breathable fabrics that maintain a neat appearance throughout the workday.

While a fitted shirt is often best, if your shirt is on the more-oversized side, pair it with fitted trousers to balance out the look. A loose shirt with loose trousers bears the risk of appearing too pajama-like. 

Business professional shoes 

Even more so than other dress codes, shoes really do make or break a business professional aesthetic. While a cute pair of kitten heels immediately elevates a less serious ensemble, a pair of sneakers can make even the smartest of blazers appear too relaxed. 

Play it safe and opt for a closed-toe shoe such as comfortable heeled pumps, ankle boots or loafers. And steer clear of relaxed styles like sandals, sneakers, and espadrilles. 

The silhouette should be simple—not overly embellished or avant-garde. And while heels are preferable, their height should be moderate. Anything between 1 to 3 inches is generally accepted as polished but comfortable. (Check our guide to the different types of heels for more insights.)
That being said, flats aren’t a fashion faux pas. Just make sure they’re well-maintained, polished, and slightly elevated.

Business professional jewelry and accessories 

While understated jewelry and accessories are an easy way to elevate an outfit, accent pieces may appear too flashy and overshadow a refined aesthetic. 

To hit the sweet spot, opt for classical choices such as pearls, studs, delicate chains, small pendants and unassuming watches. 

In the same way, belts are a great way to make an outfit more formal, as long as they are professional and understated. And silk scarves can also be a tasteful addition, especially when styled with a simple knot or fold.

The goal is to use jewelry and accessories to make your look more sophisticated without appearing extravagant or ostentatious. 

Business professional bags 

Formal attire usually means smaller bags. But if you’re dressing business professional for the office, your bag likely has to hold more, such as a laptop, snacks and other essentials. In this case, larger totes are acceptable, as long as they are structured and sophisticated. 

Neutral colors such as black, navy and brown are preferable, as well as quality materials such as leather. Your bag should be organized and compartmentalized, maintaining a put-together aesthetic. 

If you’re dressing business professional for client meetings and after-hour events, don’t carry around more than necessary. Stick to a sleek, minimalist clutch or crossbody.

Business professional colors 

A business professional palette is more muted, conservative and less-distracting. Neutral hues such as black, navy, white, grey and beige are the stalwarts of this dress code, exuding a sense of seriousness and sophistication. 

These hues are versatile, timeless, and create a solid foundation for building a professional wardrobe. However, subdued or pastel colors like pale blue or soft pink can also be tastefully incorporated, especially in spring or summer. While earthy tones such as rust orange and olive green can be seamlessly integrated into your fall and winter wardrobes. 

In general, it’s advisable to keep bold colors and loud patterns at bay, although a subtle pinstripe or a muted check pattern can be added for a touch of personality without compromising the professional tone. 

For more on how to style muted hues, see our color matching guide. 

Where to buy business professional outfits: Brands women need to know

Here are our best women’s shopping sites to nail the business professional brief with style and personality. 

Anine Bing  

Anine Bing is lauded for its understanding of office clothes for women and power dressing in a way that’s office-appropriate, aligning with the sartorial needs of the modern professional. The blend of Scandinavian simplicity and American energy adds a contemporary flavor to everyday wardrobe staples and investment pieces. 

WHBM 

Recognized for its modern-yet-timeless range of elevated basics and work clothes, WHBM is one of our go-tos for business professional attire. 

The brand’s slightly more relaxed blazers are a contemporary take on an office classic. Its structured dresses are effortlessly sophisticated and skillfully understated. And we love that its blouses feature subtle, high-end details such as neckties and feminine ruffles. WHBM also has a remarkable collection of comfortable, sleek trousers. 

Luisaviaroma 

We turn to this digital destination for most things—professional attire included. Hosting a variety of iconic designer brands, Luisaviaroma is trusted for its high-quality selection of timeless apparel and accessories. 

Whether it’s a fitted blazer by Alexander McQueen. A column dress by Saint Laurent. A striped Oxford shirt by Bottega Veneta. Or a midi skirt by Max Mara. Every piece is hand chosen by expert stylists with that inimitable Italian flair. 

Net-a-Porter 

Whether you’re building your business professional wardrobe from scratch or you’re just looking for those key pieces to elevate your collection, Net-a-Porter has plenty to offer. With over 800 luxury brands, the online retailer features industry big names such as Gucci, Balmain and Isabel Marant. As well as burgeoning brands and up-and-coming designers. 

Net-a-Porter has a whole page titled “Workwear” so you don’t have to scroll through each piece individually. From double-breasted blazers and sleek maxi skirts to silk tie blouses and poplin shirts, everything pairs together perfectly to create a killer arsenal of business professional ensembles. 

Farfetch 

Farfetch is an easy way to build a business professional wardrobe without much effort. With a mission to connect creators, curators and consumers, the global platform is committed to sourcing the best brands and uncovering newer labels. 

Farfetch’s tailored selection of work clothes includes versatile pantsuits and skirt suits, which can be worn as a set or mixed and matched to create a myriad of outfit options. Its tops include beautiful cotton shirts and lightly ruffled chiffons. And its collection of office-appropriate totes is unrivaled. 

Cuyana 

With the philosophy ‘fewer, better’, Cuyana is a masterclass in modern minimalism, resonating with conscious individuals who prefer to invest in high-quality, timeless pieces over transient trends. 

The thoughtful brand only uses premium materials. Its ethically sourced leather collection includes a range of versatile work bags, purses and belts. Its cashmere collection includes gorgeous trench coats and turtlenecks. Its organic cotton collection includes balloon sleeve shirts and column dresses. And its silk collection includes elegant blouses and midi skirts.

Cuyana (meaning ‘to love’) urges us to love our curated closet now and forever. Read our dedicated Cuyana brand story to learn more.  

LilySilk 

Silk is such an easy way to make your business professional attire more feminine and elegant, while maintaining an air of sophistication and reliability. Specializing in high-quality silk products, LilySilk is the best in the business. The luxury brand only uses premium materials to create pieces that are versatile, timeless, and quintessentially classy. 

LilySilk’s signature bow-tie blouse in a natural white pairs beautifully with more androgynous pleated pants. The wide leg jumpsuit in black is effortless to style. And we love the Amalfi shirt in a classic pinstripe. 

Business Professional vs Business Casual 

Business professional and business casual are both workplace dress codes, but differ significantly in formality. Business professional attire is more formal. For women, it includes dress shirts or blouses, blazers, heels, and professional dresses or skirts.

On the other hand, business casual is a step down in formality, permitting more variety and personal expression while still maintaining a professional appearance. Women might opt for dress pants or skirts paired with blouses, sweaters, or casual jackets, and more comfortable footwear.

Frequently asked questions about business casual for women