Top 5 'Post-WFH' Professional Style Trends to wear for Returning to the Office Without Sacrificing Comfort
Remember the golden age of 2020-2022? The uniform was simple: business on top, comfort on the bottom. We mastered the art of the "Zoom-ready" look, pairing a professional blouse with our favorite fleece-lined sweatpants just out of frame. We traded structured blazers for cozy cardigans and power heels for plush slippers. It was an era defined by unparalleled comfort, and frankly, we got used to it.
Now, as the hum of the office calls us back, a collective question hangs in the air: Do we really have to give up the comfort? The thought of squeezing back into rigid, restrictive workwear can feel like a step backward. Stiff collars, unforgiving waistbands, and shoes that pinch—it all seems a bit archaic after years of freedom and flexibility in our attire.
The good news is, the professional world has changed, and so has its dress code. The pandemic didn't just change where we work; it fundamentally shifted how we approach our work lives, including what we wear. The new professional style is a beautiful hybrid, a perfect marriage of the polish required for the boardroom and the ease we've grown to love. It's about looking sharp, capable, and put-together without sacrificing the freedom to move, breathe, and feel good in your own skin. This is the new era of "power casual," and here are the top five trends to help you nail your return to the office.
1. The Deconstructed Knit Blazer
The traditional, structured blazer has a formidable reputation. It’s a symbol of power and professionalism, but it can also feel like a suit of armor—stiff, confining, and not exactly built for comfort. Enter its modern, more relaxed cousin: the deconstructed knit blazer, or "blazer-gan" (blazer + cardigan). This single item is arguably the most essential piece for your post-WFH wardrobe.
Unlike its sharply tailored predecessor, the knit blazer is crafted from comfortable, stretchable fabrics like ponte, merino wool, or a thick cotton blend. It lacks the heavy lining, shoulder pads, and rigid construction of a traditional blazer, allowing it to drape beautifully over your frame and move with you. It provides the same sharp silhouette and professional cue as a classic blazer but feels as comfortable as your favorite cardigan. It’s the ultimate sartorial magic trick.
How to Wear It:
- Keep it simple: The easiest way to style a knit blazer is to throw it on over a simple, high-quality base layer. A silk camisole, a fitted crewneck t-shirt, or a thin merino wool sweater in a neutral color like white, black, or beige works perfectly.
- Pair with modern trousers: Combine your knit blazer with wide-leg trousers or sleek, straight-leg pants for a balanced and contemporary silhouette.
- Choose versatile colors: Start your collection with blazers in timeless neutrals like navy, charcoal, camel, or black. These will work with almost everything in your existing wardrobe. For a pop of personality, consider a muted jewel tone like emerald or burgundy.
2. The Elevated Wide-Leg Trouser
If the thought of buttoning up a pair of stiff, unforgiving suit trousers makes you shudder, you're not alone. We've spent years in joggers and leggings, and our bodies have forgotten what it's like to be constricted. Thankfully, the new wave of professional trousers prioritizes both style and comfort, with the wide-leg silhouette leading the charge.
These trousers are a game-changer. Crafted from fluid, drapey fabrics like Tencel, crepe, or lightweight wool blends, they offer an elegant flow and unrestricted movement. Many modern designs incorporate "secret" comfort features like discreet elastic panels in the back of the waistband or a flattering high-waisted, paper-bag style with a comfortable tie. They provide a sophisticated, elongated look that feels as freeing as your favorite loungewear. This blend of elegance and ease is something we often discuss on the Goh Ling Yong blog—it's about finding smarter, more efficient ways to present your best self.
How to Wear It:
- Balance the volume: Since wide-leg trousers have a lot of volume on the bottom, pair them with a more fitted top to maintain a structured, professional silhouette. A tucked-in silk blouse, a form-fitting ribbed knit, or a simple bodysuit are excellent choices.
- Mind the length: The hem of your trousers is crucial. For a modern look, they should either be full-length, just grazing the top of your shoes, or a cropped style that hits an inch or two above the ankle. Avoid an awkward mid-calf length.
- Footwear matters: Pointed-toe flats, loafers, or a sleek block heel work beautifully to elongate the leg. A simple, clean-lined sneaker can also work for a more creative or casual office environment.
3. Polished Knitwear as Your New "Blouse"
The crisp, collared button-down shirt is a corporate classic, but let's be honest—it can be fussy. It wrinkles easily, can gap at the chest, and often feels restrictive around the neck and shoulders. The post-WFH alternative is polished knitwear. This isn't your weekend slouchy sweater; this is about refined, elegant knits that function as sophisticated tops.
Think of pieces crafted from luxurious, fine-gauge materials like merino wool, cashmere blends, or high-quality viscose. Styles like the mock-neck sweater, the short-sleeved knit top (or "sweater tee"), and the refined knit polo have taken center stage. These tops offer incredible comfort and stretch, conform to your shape without clinging, and provide a clean, minimalist aesthetic that looks incredibly chic under a blazer or on its own. They are wrinkle-resistant and travel well, making them a practical and stylish choice for the modern professional.
How to Wear It:
- Focus on fit and fabric: The key to making knitwear look professional is the quality. Look for a smooth, tight weave and a fit that skims the body rather than being oversized or sloppy.
- Tuck it in: Tucking a fine-knit sweater into high-waisted trousers or a skirt instantly elevates the look, creating a more defined and polished waistline.
- Layer strategically: A sleeveless or short-sleeved knit shell is the perfect layering piece under a blazer or cardigan jacket. It provides warmth and coverage without adding bulk in the arms, ensuring your blazer still fits smoothly.
4. Smart, Comfortable Footwear
The days of commuting in one pair of shoes and suffering in another at your desk are over. The biggest collective sigh of relief in the return-to-office era has been the widespread acceptance of comfortable footwear. The pandemic accelerated a trend that was already bubbling: a move away from sky-high, painful stilettos toward shoes that are both stylish and walkable.
The new office shoe wardrobe is built on a foundation of sophisticated flats, sturdy block heels, and chic loafers. Chunky-soled loafers have become a fashion staple, offering a trendy edge and all-day comfort. Elegant, pointed-toe flats in soft leather or suede provide a sharp, leg-lengthening effect without the pain of a heel. And for those who still want a bit of height, the block heel is the answer, providing stability and support that a stiletto simply can't match. Investing in high-quality, comfortable footwear isn't just a trend; it's a smart career move—as a professional like Goh Ling Yong would likely agree, you can't be at the top of your game if you're distracted by aching feet.
How to Wear It:
- Invest in quality materials: Look for shoes made from genuine leather or suede. These materials will mold to your feet over time, offering a custom-like fit and superior breathability.
- The Loafer is your workhorse: A classic leather loafer, whether it's a sleek penny loafer or a modern lug-sole style, is incredibly versatile. It pairs equally well with tailored trousers, dresses, and skirts.
- Don't underestimate the power of a pointed flat: A pointed-toe flat gives the illusion of a heel by creating a long, elegant line. It’s the perfect choice for days when you want to look extra sharp without sacrificing comfort.
5. The "One-and-Done" Power Dress
On those mornings when you’re short on time or mental energy, a great dress is your best friend. The "one-and-done" dress is a single piece that makes you look instantly put-together with minimal effort. The post-WFH version of this wardrobe hero is, you guessed it, all about comfortable fabrics and forgiving silhouettes.
Forget restrictive sheaths and body-con styles. The new power dress comes in the form of a knit midi dress, a relaxed shirt dress, or an elegant wrap dress. A high-quality knit dress made from a substantial ribbed or ponte fabric can look incredibly professional while feeling like you're wearing your favorite pajamas. A shirt dress in soft, breathable Tencel or crisp cotton offers a classic look that can be dressed up or down. These styles don't require complex styling—just add your favorite comfortable shoes and a few simple accessories, and you're ready to conquer your day.
How to Wear It:
- Define your waist: While the silhouettes are more relaxed, you still want to look polished. Use a belt to cinch the waist of a shirt dress or a flowy A-line dress to create a more defined and professional shape.
- Accessorize thoughtfully: A simple dress is a perfect canvas for accessories. Elevate your look with a statement necklace, a silk scarf, or a structured handbag.
- Layer for versatility: Throw a knit blazer over your dress for a more formal meeting, or wear a fine-knit turtleneck underneath a sleeveless dress in cooler weather. This extends the life of your pieces across seasons.
Comfort is the New Power Suit
Returning to the office doesn't have to mean returning to discomfort. The landscape of professional attire has evolved for the better, embracing the idea that you can be both comfortable and competent, relaxed and respected. By incorporating these five trends—the versatile knit blazer, the elegant wide-leg trouser, polished knitwear, smart footwear, and the effortless power dress—you can build a modern work wardrobe that works for you, not against you.
This new approach to dressing for work is about more than just fashion; it’s about feeling confident and empowered to do your best work. When you're not distracted by a waistband that digs or shoes that pinch, you're free to focus on what truly matters.
What's your go-to comfortable-yet-professional outfit for the office? Share your favorite post-WFH style tips and tricks in the comments below
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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