The Best Work Dresses for Every Office Dress Code

AYR has become one of my go-to brands for wardrobe staples — the Deep End white button-up is great. It’s no surprise that AYR makes a solid work dress, too. The dress version of its best-selling Practice Tee is made from the same heavyweight jersey material with the perfect amount of slouch and a flattering drape. Much like the Everlane dress below, this one is comfortable, airy, and easy to throw on in a rush. But there’s something about the maxi length that makes me feel more put together when I wear it, and I don’t feel I need to do any work in terms of styling. It looks effortlessly cool with a sweater tied around my shoulders, but I also like the way it looks on its own.

To me, this dress screams “office siren all grown up.” The double-breasted closure and shoulder pads are very, uh, see you next Tuesday … without having to call HR. It’s the perfect option for those whose office culture is modern and stylish. I like wearing this dress without the belt, but if you prefer a more defined silhouette, keep it on.

As much as I love working from home, sometimes it’s nice to get all dressed up and remind myself what office culture was like pre-pandemic. From the midi length and long sleeves to the fluid silhouette and silky-smooth, breathable fabric, this is a quintessential office dress, similar to the ones stylish New Yorkers wore before the world became so casual. The scarf neckline, which can be fastened behind the neck or tied in front, is a cool modern detail.

Classic polo shirts and dresses are trending, which is great news for us working girls because the style happens to be professional looking. The layered, two-tone collar on this COS dress also taps into another spring trend we’re loving: layered shirts. Even though it’s made from 100 percent wool, I’m going to continue wearing this dress throughout the year because it’s lightweight and breathable. I also appreciate how comfortable and secure the A-line silhouette, roomy fit, and extra-long sleeves make me feel.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-style, basic (complimentary) work dress for everyday wear, Everlane has so many pieces you’ll love. This airy A-line dress made from 100 percent organic cotton is essential for hot summer days because it won’t cling to your body or show those dreaded sweat marks. I can’t wait to wear it with sandals when the weather finally warms up.

This spring and summer, I’ll be reaching for this tank dress when I’m mentally on PTO but physically in the office. The pull-on halter style featuring a supercomfortable elastic cinched waist and a flowy poplin skirt has strong vacation vibes but still looks professional. It also has pockets, which is a huge bonus.

My recommendation for when you have an important meeting or presentation is the Reformation Danica Dress, which is fitted through the bodice and flares out at the hips. It looks polished but unfussy, and the soft and stretchy jersey fabric is comfortable enough for all-day wear. I can use it with tights and a leather jacket in the fall and winter or on its own with a low-heeled pump in the summer. The best part? The brown version can double as a casual wedding-guest dress in a few months when wedding season is in full swing.

You may need to wear tights under this slim-fit minidress (or throw a cardigan over top) depending on how strict your office dress code is, but the tailored silhouette adds a bit of formality. Since my office is pretty casual, I like to style it with a leather jacket, slouchy socks, and loafers.

I’m a sucker for a drop waist, and this office-appropriate Gap shirtdress with a modern twist and relaxed fit is no exception. If the stripes aren’t quite your style, consider the sophisticated, more streamlined black or brown versions.

Work dresses don’t have to be boring! If you’re worried you won’t be taken seriously in a fun dress, I would style this midi, cut from smooth viscose in a reptile-inspired print, with a cuff bracelet and these ballet pumps.

Damson Madder makes so many comfortable daytime dresses in bold colors and prints to help you express your personal style at the office. I love this long-sleeved one made from 100 percent cotton.

Dôen is another destination for dresses you can wear to the office and on the weekend. The Bijou is an all-season dress that’s ideal for that awkward time between winter and spring. Plus it features a flattering smocked bodice.

This belted style looks way more expensive than it actually is. With a lapel collar and V-neckline but no front buttons, it’s a modern shirtdress that can be worn to the office, happy hour, or even a daytime hang on the weekend.