Part 02: Eight (Unboring) Ways To Style Black Trousers For The Office.
The elastic waist kind because comfort is everything...
It’s funny how a pair pants can feel too dressy for some occasions and not dressy enough for others. But my point with this series is to show how almost everything in your closet can be dressed up or down and you can wear the things you love whenever and wherever you want. In part one, I discussed dressing down a black elastic waist trouser, now we’re here to make those same pants feel more office appropriate. An especially good option if you are pregnant or postpartum might I add.
BLACK TROUSERS TO CONSIDER…
Uniqlo Crepe Jersey Straight Pants, $49.90AUD (I haven’t felt these in store but these were the only pair I found for under $100 - if anyone has any insight please comment!)
Clyque The Label Tommy Pant, $297AUD (Pia Mance, who is the founder of Heaven Mayhem just posted these and they look great and purse-friendly too).
Harris Tapper Irving Trouser, $350AUD (I have these and rave about them all the time).
La Ligne Colby Pants, $462AUD (a styling client bought these and they fall beautifully, also
recommended these so you know they are worth it).
MORE BLACK TROUSERS TO CONSIDER AS RECOMMENDED BY THIS SMART AND CHIC COMMUNITY…
For the trousers to make the cut, they must be a sturdy fabric (not silk as we want wash and wear), matte, no buttons or zips and no drawstring.
Elka Collective Edra Pants $179AUD (direct from a black trouser aficionado)
PJ Femme Marella Trouser, $495 AUD (This comes directly from someone who works at PJ. A straighter cut in comparison to the Pamala pants I recc’d above. Take your regular size.).
Almada Bea Pants, $660AUD (these come highly recommended and if anyone at Almada reads this I would happily accept these as a gift!).
HOW TO STYLE.
THE WHITE (DRESS) SHIRT: We see a bucketload of inspiration when it comes to shirts but I’d like you to consider a dress shirt or a straight cut shirt rather than oversized.
Why this works? It takes this look from being less slouchy to more tailored, simply by changing the style of your shirt.
Style notes: Beauty notes are important here. I think it was
who made the point that hair can be the accessory. If you like wearing your hair down, go that extra mile and give yourself a blowout ( or fork out the $ and have a professional do if for you - especially if you have an important meeting on or an even straight from work) or go for a sleek up-do. Swipe on a red lip and you’re ready for whatever the day throws at you.
THE OFFICE BOHĂˆME: If youR heart screams ChloĂ© but your 9-5 calls for corporate, let your accessories take the lead.
Why this works? A great black blazer, black trousers and a top that can hold its own, all act as a strong office-appropriate base while the textures of the accessories give a more feminine, whimsical feel–the platted ankle strap may be tucked away but you know it’s there and those who are detail orientated may catch a glimpse when you cross your legs. The suede (the emerald green is just delicious!) bag is only on display when you come and go while the gold tassel (note I did not go for material here) adds movement an otherwise serious outfit craves.
Style notes: Look for an under layer that can be worn on its own too. Remove the top and you have yourself a sexy after hours outfit!
CLASSIC COLOUR COMBO: A red polo + black trousers + buttery pumps = colour pop perfection.
Why this works? Aside from the colours, the polo itself can be layered under a blazer, and the waistband is going to give a bit of structure. The pointed toe pumps further dress-up this relaxed office fit.
Style notes: The colours do the styling for you. Look for a top with a waistband, and don’t overcomplicate. A cute pair of spectacles is more than enough to pull all the pieces together.
A BLAZER COAT: These are just so effortlessly chic and you can literally wear anything like
(pictured below) or nothing like Stephanie Suganami, underneath.Why this works? Adds structure and sophistication to any base and often made from light enough material to leave on inside the office. Plus it’s great for layers underneath.
Style notes: This can be made to feel more casual with a flat shoe and a tee underneath or more corporate with a shirt and heels. A versatile staple well worth the investment.
GO COLLARLESS: Still structured but to me this feels more feminine and just gives something different to a traditional blazer.
Why this works? Another option to a traditional blazer. There’s a silhouette to suit everyone—from longline (The Row), to tie-waist as seen on
, and voluminous to cropped like the one I chose below.Style notes: Layer over a fitted tee and wear open or button all the way to the top for a more polished feel. Keep jewellery unfussy.
THE BODY SUIT: Simple, slimline, stays put.. and quietly elegant might I add.
Why this works? Zero tucking required and a bodysuit will stay in place without a belt. Also great for proportions as it neatens up a relaxed pant and a great base layer.
Style notes: Wear alone or layered under a white shirt and blazer for a more polished look. Add a bangle for something sculptural and a chocolate brown tote just because grey and brown are an exquisite combination.
MIX YOUR NEUTRALS: Trust Andie to remind us how great brown and black look together.
Why this works? It’s offering something softer, more subtle yet equally timeless. The warmth you crave especially if your office environment is a little sterile.
Style notes: This doesn’t have to be brown but can be navy, grey, tan or khaki (I still consider neutrals). Find what neutral works for you. Add a little texture and depth with your accessories. Heels with fur, enamel earrings, and a contrasting bag… divine!
ADD A SCARF FOR SHAPE: I’ve avoided a belt like the plague during this edit but a scarf is a softer, more interesting waist-cincher.
Why this works? A simple way to add colour, volume and depth to any blazer and trouser combo.
Style notes: If you’re unsure about a scarf, try a more subtle pattern or a tonal colour, or opt for a blazer that is an hour glass shape. This will add a little drama and help hold the scarf in place or allow you to go sans scarf but still give you great shape.
If you want to learn how to style your own closet, book a 60-minute styling session with me.
Jade x
P.S. Make sure you are subscribed for part 03: Eight Ways To Make Black Trousers Feel Sexy.
I am here for any and all black pants content. Love this so much Jade!
I love this whole concept; 8 ways to dress down vs 8 ways to dress up. Truly, bravo!!