Affordable Office Wear When You’re Over 40

Times are a-changing and for many of us that means the businesses, offices and retailers in our areas are starting to open up. This also could mean slowly transitioning back into your office if you were working from home for the last three months. I, for one, am very excited about the prospect of going back into the office. It may be difficult to believe, but I miss my routine; my morning coffee and banana oatmeal at my desk, chit-chatting with my co-workers and my multi-screen set up. Going back to work also means the return to office wear (i.e. regular clothes) which doesn’t surprise me how much I miss it. I want to highlight some great options for this month that will get you back to work in style and on a budget. 

Office Wear Inspiration From The Spring 2020 Runway

Even though I want to emphasize affordable office wear, I think it’s still fair to give credit where credit is due. We obviously get a lot of our inspiration for looks and styling from the runways. For the spring 2020 shows, there was a lot of luxury and trends that just don’t seem appropriate for the current times (think sheer and sequins), especially when we all seem to be going back to basics. However, there are still collections that we can look to to get some nice ideas for when we do shop those more affordable options. I really liked the suiting and separates in the Rag & Bone show. The sophisticated pinstripes mixed with the relaxed fit trousers and blazers were a great combination to try to recreate. 

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Wearing Affordable Office Wear Over 40

So now that it’s time to get back to work, whatever will you wear? It’s a great excuse to go shopping for some new items and it’s quite impressive what you’d be able to find and what you are able to get for a smaller budget than what you may have been working with before. A great oversized blazer should be the first piece you seek out. It can be paired with just about anything: over a dress, with jeans, trousers or any skirt. Plus, they tend to be universally flattering. This TopShop Crepe Blazer makes for a great option. It’s lightweight and perfect for summer weather. Plus the pop of color of the pink would compliment any skin tone. 

For bottoms, I must admit, I’m a huge fan of Old Navy Pixie Pants. They just fit nicely, are incredibly forgiving and comfortable and the plethora of colors and patterns they come in are seemingly endless. This makes them the perfect summer office pant that you can stock up on. Did I mention they are almost always on sale? This new high waist option is currently being promoted for only $24 per pair; which really can’t be beat. I have several pairs of these pants and I never regret my choice to buy them or wear them. An Old Navy signature which should be a wardrobe staple for anyone. 

Finally, what office wear wardrobe would be complete without a stylish dress to help you break away from the monotony of separates? This Tommy Hilfiger shift dress is fun and a little unexpected for the office, but still office appropriate in my opinion. Styling this with a loose blazer and a pair of penny loafers or mules will finish off your office look. I also love the orange color, which can be a good reminder of the sunny weather waiting for you outside as you sit under the fluorescent lights of your office. So what do you think? Are you ready to shop for some affordable new pieces and go back to the office? Let us know!

Expert Style Tips

1. Be bright! Who likes drab office wear? Unless you work in a conservative work environment, there is no reason to stick with dark or bland colors. Many workplaces now have loosened up their wardrobe policy, so take full advantage! Many years ago I missed out on a pair of 3.1 Phillip Lim Silk Crepe trousers. They were high-waist and wide legged and I still get upset when I open my closet and they are not there; they would have been the perfect office piece. So, instead I have to find an alternative, like these Banana Republic High-Waisted Tapered Leg pants. The bright color and fit make them ideal for the office and will play up any other pieces you pair with them. 

2. Heels are overrated. Don’t get me wrong, I still absolutely love my heels. They make me feel chic and sexy! However, I can’t remember the last time I wore any semblance of a heel with my summer wardrobe, especially in the office. These days, slides, sandals and loafers are perfectly acceptable in most office environments. That being said, I have stocked up for many reasons, I don’t feel the need to kick them off to give my feet a rest under my desk, I can actually drive in them while commuting and I don’t have to lug around a spare pair of comfortable shoes with me day-in day-out. A pair like these Sperry Saybrook Loafers will take you through the entire season and beyond. Not to mention, the quality and comfort are undeniable. 

3. Work wear doesn’t have to break the bank. Yes, we all want to have beautiful investment pieces to be able to wear forever, but these days some of us are choosing to be a little more mindful of our spending. All of these options that I provided in this post are under $100 – some well under. All you have to do is do a little digging and you will definitely be able to find some quality pieces for an enviable price. 

Shop Affordable Office Wear

Pictured above from left to right:

Topshop Crepe Blazer, $42.50

Old Navy High-Waisted Pixie Ankle Pants for Women, $24

Calvin Klein Floral Printed Flutter-Sleeve Top, $47.60

Banana Republic High-Rise Tapered Cropped Pant, $53.70

Steve Madden Karolyn Sandal, $24.99

Sperry Saybrook Loafer, now $74.96

Tommy Hilfiger Faux-Pocket Shift Dress, $58.99

Are you ready for the office? What new pieces do you need for work?

–Carmen Turner

You may like to read What To Wear When You Are Working From Home and Stay at Home Chic: Trends You Can Wear Now And Later.

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