JUMP TO Section Chevron icon It indicates an expandable section or menu, or sometimes previous / next navigation options.- Best overall
- Best budget
- Best for work pants
- Best for classic plus size picks
- Best with a trendy flair
- Best for bold picks
- Best for stylish minimalism
- Best sweaters for work
- Best for petites
- Best luxury
- Best for trendy plus size picks
- Best for basics
- Best for elevated basics
- Best for a capsule wardrobe
- Best one-stop-shop
- Best sustainable workwear
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The idea of women's workwear used to be limited to pencil skirts, sensible slacks, and smart stacked heels. But with more and more workplaces loosening their definition of "work-appropriate attire," the term workwear has grown to encompass a wide range of styles from myriad brands.
At Insider Reviews, we've tested hundreds of items from dozens of retailers, and have a handful of favorites that we toss on whenever we're headed to our offices. From wrap sweaters to keep you warm when the office AC is blasting, to the perfect carry-all that can transition seamlessly to drinks, we've rounded up the best items we count as workwear — and exactly where to buy them.
For more workwear staples, check out our coverage on the best suits for women, the best white button-down shirts, the best work bags for women, and the best flats.
Best overall: Everlane
Everlane may seem too casual for workwear, but the brand is a go-to for foundational basics for any office wardrobe.
Sizing options: Varies by style, with most clothing options running 00-16. Shoes tend to run small.
Everlane is an internet darling, partly thanks to transparent pricing in an industry that has traditionally relied upon markups. We shop here primarily for basics that are above-average in quality and below-average in price. We like Everlane's shoes, leather bags, cotton shirts, and $50 work pants.
In terms of footwear, we typically recommend the Day shoe family, though you'll want to size up a half size for your order. We're unanimously fans of the company's $135 Day Glove and we also love the Day Heel, The Mary Jane, and The Glove Boot.
Read our full review of Everlane's workwear collection to see more of our favorite picks.
What to buy:
Everlane Women's Alpaca V Neck Cropped Cardigan Shop at Everlane External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Everlane The Tencel™ Oversized Blazer Shop at Everlane External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Everlane Day Glove Shop at Everlane External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Everlane The Oversized Raglan Shirt Shop at Everlane External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best budget: Quince
Quince is a direct-to-consumer lifestyle brand that boasts affordable prices for traditionally high-cost materials.
Sizing options: Limited to XS-XL
Quince provides your run-of-the-mill clothing essentials and makes them using organic, sustainably sourced textiles. Their success can be attributed to their fair pricing, maintained by cutting out the added expenses of the supply chain. Ever think cashmere sweaters were a luxury item out of your reach? Well, Quince has them for just $50. In addition, they also make some of the best white button-downs for women and men.
Read our full review of Quince to find out more about why we love it.
What to buy:
Quince Washable Silk Skirt Shop at Quince External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Quince 100% Organic Cotton Knit Blazer Shop at Quince External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse Shop at Quince External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pant Shop at Quince External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for work pants: Spanx
Spanx doesn't just do shapewear well. The brand offers slick basics that transition to evening super easily.
Sizing options: The brand has its own hosiery sizing guide, so make sure to reference that. All other pieces range from XS-3X.
Spanx is best known for its shapewear, and — to nobody's surprise — the same things that make its shapewear great (intuitive design, savvy understanding of women's bodies, and high-end materials) also make the best tights we've tested. Multiple Insider Reviews team members swear by the Luxe Leg Mid-Thigh Shaping Tights.
But the brand's pants are also great. We tested Spanx's collection of "The Perfect Black Pant" which includes four style iterations of the workwear staple — from flare to skinny. It is one of the best women's workwear pieces for feeling comfortable and looking professional. We were particularly impressed with the machine-washable, smoothing fabric that's flattering but not restrictive. Sizing options also include petite, regular, or tall inseams.
See our full review of the Spanx Perfect Black Pant to see how it looks on different body types.
What to buy:
Spanx The Perfect Blazer Shop at Spanx External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Spanx Luxe Leg Mid-Thigh Shaping Tights Shop at Spanx External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Spanx The Perfect Pant Hi-Rise Flare Shop at Spanx External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Spanx The Perfect A-line 3/4 Sleeve Dress Shop at Spanx External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Spanx The Perfect Pant, Kick Flare Shop at Spanx External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for classic plus size picks: Universal Standard
Universal Standard has some of the most size-inclusive clothing on the market today.
Sizing options: Inclusive sizing, from 00-40
Universal Standard has established itself as a brand that carries some of the best work clothes for women, with a big emphasis on size inclusivity. Workwear for plus-size women is infamously limited, but Universal Standard answers the call with a medley of designs for professional settings with the added promise of a perfect fit.
Universal Standard was also a standout pick in our article on the best plus size clothing brands that make inclusive clothes that are actually cute.
What to buy:
Universal Standard Iconic Geneva Dress Shop at Universal Standard External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Universal Standard Coastal Linen Blazer Shop at Universal Standard External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for workwear with a trendy flair: & Other Stories
& Other Stories is H&M's premium ready-to-wear brand made with more ethically sourced natural materials.
Sizing options: Limited to XS-L
& Other Stories is designed by ateliers in Los Angeles, Paris, and Stockholm and distributed under H&M. À la Banana Republic via Gap, & Other Stories presents a more elevated version of its parent company's eponymous brand. Their wide range of knits are made out of responsibly sourced wool blends, and their liberal use of recycled materials translates into a reasonably priced sustainable option for quality workwear.
What to buy:
& Other Stories Slim-Fit Wool Knit Dress Shop at & Other Stories External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
& Other Stories Jacquard Mini Skirt Shop at & Other Stories External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
& Other Stories Tweed Jacket Shop at & Other Stories External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
& Other Stories Petal-Sleeve Knit Top Shop at & Other Stories External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
& Other Stories Knit T-Shirt Shop at & Other Stories External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for bold picks: COS
COS, under H&M, is a modern clothing brand that incorporates thoughtful fashion design into everyday wear.
Sizing options: Limited to XS-L
COS is H&M's line of modern, upscale fashion that while simplistic in nature, is ultimately designed to make a statement. Its vibrant colors and clean lines converge into bold silhouettes that still maintain function and comfort. COS' selection includes great foundations for a solid office look, along with stylish, well-crafted pieces that stand out on their own.
What to buy:
COS Tailored Wool Skort Shop at COS External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
COS Column Maxi Skirt Shop at Nordstrom External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for stylish minimalism: ARKET
ARKET is a modern lifestyle brand under H&M, whose styles are inspired by Scandinavian simplicity.
Sizing options: Limited between XS-L
Since ARKET's doors first opened in London in 2017, their reputation for durability established them as the Western point of access to Scandinavian fashion aesthetics. ARKET exemplifies the values of the 20th century Nordic modern movement. The era emphasized finding beauty among everyday motions, as seen in their clothing and home collections. If you're a fan of cozy wool knits in unconventional patterns, ARKET may be for you. Its merino, mohair, and alpaca wool take form in designs both simple and alternative.
What to buy:
ARKET Relaxed Jumper Shop at ARKET External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Arket Oversized Blazer Shop at Arket External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Arket Leather Loafers Shop at Arket External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
ARKET Kick Flare Jersey Trousers Shop at ARKET External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best sweaters for work: Alex Mill
Alex Mill is a brand specializing in uniform designs with just the right amount of nuance.
Sizing options: Varies by style. Most range between XS-XXL
The understated designs of Alex Mill may not stand out at first. But upon closer inspection, the brand's commitment to its own unique flair for craftsmanship is evident. Their clothing offers a simple solution for business casual that transfers just as easily to the weekend fit. The creative direction comes from a team with previous experience designing for J.Crew, Old Navy, Madewell, and Gap. They even use botanical dye in select pieces via rainwater and plant-based materials.
What to buy:
Alex Mill Easy Ruffle Shirt Shop at Alex Mill External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Alex Mill Button-Back Crewneck Sweater Shop at Alex Mill External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for petites: Ann Taylor
Ann Taylor takes a traditional approach to women's workwear with styles that have been in style for years and will likely never go out of style.
Sizing options: Varies by style. Many petite and curvy fits are available.
Ann Taylor is one of the best places to buy women's workwear — and you're probably already familiar with the brand. Much of the clothing is designed for work and beyond, so when you're in the office from 9am to 5pm and you're out enjoying the evening from 5pm to 9pm, your outfit will fit right in. Not only are the materials good quality, but the timeless designs make them easy to wear right now and for many years to come.
The brand has everything from ribbed sweaters and classic overcoats to sleek dresses and skirts. Some of the benefits to shopping at Ann Taylor include petite sizing and regular sales.
What to buy:
Ann Taylor Petite Tweed Shift Dress Shop at Ann Taylor External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Ann Taylor The Petite Long Cardigan Jacket in Houndstooth Tweed Shop at Ann Taylor External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Ann Taylor The Long Collarless Blazer in Fluid Crepe Shop at Ann Taylor External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Ann Taylor Belted Turtleneck Sweater Dress Shop at Ann Taylor External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best luxury: M.M.LaFleur
M.M.LaFleur is the name to know for high-end, stylish, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. workwear.
Sizing options: Varies by style, with most pieces ranging from XS-XXL.
Most of M.M. LaFleur's clothes are machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant, and the brand's design hacks are helpful rather than gimmicky — like internal clips to keep bra straps in place and adjustable pant hems for different shoes. Miyako Nakamura, former head designer for Zac Posen, is a master at flattering, easy silhouettes.
There are also plenty of options for business travelers that feature machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant, packable suiting staples like the Moreland jacket. M.M.LaFleur also makes the ingenious Foster Pant that adjusts for different shoe heights.
What to buy:
MM LeFleur The Celeste Top - Eco 365Knit Shop at MM LeFleur External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
M.M. LaFleur The Moreland Jacket Shop at M.M. LaFleur External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
M.M. LaFleur The Merritt Jardigan Shop at M.M. LaFleur External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
M.M. LaFleur The Foster Pant Shop at M.M. LaFleur External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
M.M.LaFleur The Lilia Jacket Shop at M.M.LaFleur External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for trendy plus size picks: Eloquii
Plus size fashion brand Eloquii makes everything from workwear to evening-wear, with a specific focus on colorful, bold, and lively pieces.
Sizing options: Plus sizes 14-28 available.
Eloquii is a plus-sized women's clothing brand that was originally created by The Limted in 2011, but was discontinued less than two years after its launch. But due to high customer demand, a group of investors independently relaunched the brand in 2014 and in 2018, the brand was acquired by retail giant Walmart.
With sizes 14-28, Eloquii is the go-to place for women to find plus-size clothing of all types. From office attire to date nights and galas, Eloquii's range of designs canned be fitted for many occasions.
Some of our favorite pieces include the Colorblock Sweater Cardigan Dress, the Pleated Skirt Dress, and the Tall Cuff Turtleneck Sweater.
What to buy:
Eloquii Printed Velvet Blazer Shop at Eloquii External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Eloquii Funnel Neck Midi Dress Shop at Eloquii External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Eloquii Sheer Yoke Sweater With Tie Neck Shop at Eloquii External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for basics: J.Crew
Don't sleep on J.Crew because of its preppy reputation. You can find bold, bright patterns and colors in pieces that are still work-appropriate.
Sizing options: Varies by style, with a lot of pieces ranging from 00-24.
J. Crew seems to be hosting a sale every other day — and that's great news for anyone looking to pick up some of the best women's work clothes at a discount. If you're looking for a fresh, leopard pencil skirt or a fitted blazer in Italian wool, you may want to check J.Crew first.
We love the brand's preppy-retro blazers, classic-fit button-ups, and fun-but-still-professional prints and patterns. J.Crew's uniquely well-made desk-to-drinks basics are also clutch. They're professional without approaching dowdy. The best example of this is the company's longstanding Regent Blazer — sleek, stylish, and great dressed down for coffee on a Saturday afternoon or up for a big meeting.
What to buy:
J. Crew Willa Blazer in Italian City Wool Blend Shop at J. Crew External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
J.Crew Parke blazer in Italian stretch wool Shop at J.Crew External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
J.Crew Faux-Leather Pencil Skirt Shop at J.Crew External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
J.Crew Regent Blazer Shop at J. Crew External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for elevated basics: Modern Citizen
For sleek basics that won't break your budget, look no further than Modern Citizen.
Sizing options: Varies by style, with most options ranging from XS-XL.
Modern Citizen's neutral pieces make it easy to build a chic, minimalist wardrobe without spending a fortune. The site also lets you search by occasion to quickly find what you're looking for. Go to the "Work" collection to find a curated group of pieces that'll look great in or out of the office.
Read our full review of Modern Citizen here.
What to buy:
Modern Citizen Fei Organic Cotton Tie Front Midi Dress Shop at Modern Citizen External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Modern Citizen Spencer Wrap Maxi Skirt Shop at Modern Citizen External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for creating a capsule wardrobe: Eileen Fisher
For clothes that are as comfortable for the office as they are WFH, check out Eileen Fisher.
Sizing options: Varies by style, with most options ranging from XXS-XXL.
Eileen Fisher is all about easy dressing. Simple, clean shapes and great fabrics are the ethos of the brand. And thanks to the timeless styles and truly top-notch materials, you can expect to have them for decades.
The brand's wide-legged pants and breezy blouses can be mixed and matched to create your new — surprisingly comfortable — work wardrobe. And since most of these pieces are minimal, and come in a range of complementary hues, all you need is a few to create the ultimate capsule wardrobe.
Read our full review of Eileen Fisher here.
What to buy:
Eileen Fisher Boiled Wool Jersey Wide Leg Pants Shop at Eileen Fisher External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Eileen Fisher Peruvian Organic Cotton Crepe Vest Shop at Eileen Fisher External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best one-stop-shop: Madewell
Madewell might be known for its jeans, but the brand has plenty of casual and business casual styles for the office.
Sizing options: Varies by style. Plus, petite, tall, taller, maternity, and curvy fits are also available.
In 2006, J.Crew introduced its sister brand Madewell as a premium denim brand for women. While you can still purchase denim, Madewell has evolved into an all-around clothing brand with everything from casual styles like jeans to office-appropriate styles like blazers, skirts, and sweaters. The retailer also makes great shoes like these patent leather mary janes and some of the best work bags, like this leather bucket tote.
In addition to the many new styles Madewell has to offer, the brand also has a pre-loved section that includes upcycled collaborations, vintage finds from a variety of brands, and archival Madewell pieces for resale.
Whether your office is super casual or still a bit formal, Madewell has garments that will fit into your wardrobe. And with frequent sales and promotions, you'll save money on almost everything you buy.
What to buy:
Madewell Plus Oversized Dorset Blazer Shop at Zappos External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Madewell The Janet Pump Shop at Madewell External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Madewell Cropped Utilitarian Jacket in (Re)generative Chino Shop at Madewell External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Madewell Rib Raglan-Sleeve Cardigan Shop at Madewell External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user."Best for sustainable workwear: Reformation
With great emphasis on sustainability and ethics in its business practices, Reformation makes clothes you'll be proud to wear.
Sizing options: Sizes 0-12 available. Petite fits available for select styles.
Reformation started out as a small vintage clothing boutique in Los Angeles, but quickly grew into an original line of women's apparel with a focus on sustainability. All of the brand's clothes are made in their LA factory or at sustainable partner factories around the world.
While you can get everything from casual styles like jeans to formal styles like wedding dresses, Reformation is a wonderful place to shop for some of the best women's workwear for looking stylish and feeling professional. Pieces like the Catrina Blazer are super trendy and easy to layer with items already in your wardrobe.
What to buy:
Reformation Galactic Knit Two-Piece Shop at Reformation External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Reformation Willene Dress Shop at Reformation External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Reformation Basil Cashmere Sleeveless Sweater Dress Shop at Reformation External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." 
Reformation Billie Linen Vest Shop at Reformation External link Arrow An arrow icon, indicating this redirects the user." Mara Leighton Senior Digital Culture Reporter Mara Leighton is a senior digital culture reporter. If you want to get in touch, please send an email to mleighton@businessinsider.com, or send a DM on twitter to @maraleighton. Read more Read less Amir Ismael Editor, Insider Reviews Amir Ismael is an editor for Insider Reviews, Insider's e-commerce branch of the service journalism team. As a collector of sneakers and fashion, Amir is passionate about all things related to style. He's covered everything including the industry's shift to producing more sustainable clothing, the most comfortable loungewear, all of the best places to shop for affordable business casual attire, and more. He's used his expertise in footwear and the footwear industry to review all kinds of shoes from sportswear giants, well-known casual brands, and startups. Amir's coverage also includes eyewear, watches, and grooming products like electric razors and men's skincare. Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, Amir has led Insider Reviews' face masks coverage with thoughtful recommendations based on CDC guidelines, expert opinions, and his own testing. During his time at Insider, Amir previously handled deals of the day coverage, and worked as a generalist writing hundreds of reviews ranging from phone cases and headphones to bed sheets and blenders, and has also covered major shopping holidays including Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. Before joining the Insider Reviews team in 2017, worked as a freelance writer for Complex Sneakers and Sole Collector where he contributed to daily sneaker news and release dates, feature-length articles, and interviews with artists, designers, and athletes. Amir graduated from William Paterson University in 2015 with a degree in journalism and public relations. Say hello to Amir at aismael@businessinsider.com or on Instagram @amirjismael. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here. Learn more about how we test style and beauty products. Read more Read less Gabrielle Chase Associate Style & Beauty Editor Gabrielle Chase is an Associate Style & Beauty Editor at Business Insider. She helps maintains explainer articles about her team's favorite brands and products. Her review of Allbirds sneakers goes beyond the surface level of aesthetics and takes a closer look at the company's sustainability practices. While the style trend cycle grows increasingly shorter, Gabi applies a healthy dose of skepticism to whatever's currently being hyped up on her For You Page. She started her career climb as a fashion intern at Interview Magazine. Before Business Insider, she wrote for ELLE Magazine's online series "The Launch."She graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a double major in journalism and Spanish. Gabi lives in Brooklyn, models, loves K-pop, and frequents her local movie theaters.If you'd like to ask a question— or just want a girl's girl to talk about fashion with— connect with Gabi via email at gabriellechase@businessinsider.com.Learn how the Insider Reviews team tests style and beauty products here. Read more Read lessYou can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.
Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@businessinsider.com.
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