How to go back to work in style

How to go back to work in style

Whilst summer is still not officially over, it might as well be. And whether you’re a seasoned city worker facing the inexorable trudge back to work or a fresh faced young graduate who can’t wait to get stuck in, you’ll need some ‘back to work’ gear. You’ll want to start as you mean to go on though, so whether you’re returning to the office, or you’re about to begin a new chapter in your career, here’s how to go back to work in style.

THE SUIT

FORMAL, , A well-tailored, navy blue suit should feature in every man’s wardrobe, but if you want to subtly stand out then look for one with a faint pattern, like the micro-check of this Hackett two-piece. The suit is made of a luxuriously soft wool, and features flap pockets, a double vented rear and slim notch lapels, making it an assured option for the office.

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Hackett Blue Mayfair Check Wool Suit, £600 from Mr Porter

CASUAL, , If your workplace adopts a looser dress code then mix it up with separates. The neutral grey perfectly complements the deep navy of the trousers, which should either be tailored or rolled to ensure a sharp silhouette. This elegant combination will make you stand out among your less sartorially aware colleagues, but that’s a good thing.

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Aquascutum Milner Jacket, £450 from Aquascutum // Sunspel Navy Chino, £135 from Sunspel

THE SHIRT

FORMAL, , A crisp white dress shirt is to a man as a bone is to a dog. It should never be far away. This one features a modest, classic collar, single button cuffs, mother-of-pearl buttons and that signature Gucci slim-fit.

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Gucci White Slim-Fit Cotton Shirt, £195 from Mr Porter

CASUAL, , Although this is indeed a white shirt, there are some drastic differences from the one above, and it’s far more casual as a result. With its button-down collar, single chest pocket and curved hems, this classic oxford shirt is just at home with a pair of jeans as it is with an unstructured suit, making it ideal for those with a casual office dress code.

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J. Crew White Oxford Shirt, £70 from Mr Porter

THE SHOES

FORMAL, , Following on from their resurgence a couple of years ago, monk strap shoes are now a wardrobe staple. This formal, single-buckle style is a great alternative to the oxford or derby, and will lend you a confident air.

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Crockett and Jones Monk Strap Shoes in Black Leather, £375 from Liberty

CASUAL, , We’ve already discussed which boots styles you should be investing in this autumn, and the Chelsea boot is definitely up there. Slick, elegant and more versatile than you might think, this dark brown suede pair exude effortless style, and they’re casual enough to be worn with jeans.

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Russell & Bromley Burlington Suede Chelsea Boot, £165 from Russell & Bromley

, An even slicker alternative to the Chelsea boot would be a pair of suede buckle loafers like these from Fairfax and Favor. Constructed from fine nubuck and featuring a durable all-leather sole, they are perfect for slipping on after work for a night on the town, thanks to their evening-appropriate colour.

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Fairfax and Favor Mayfair Black, £135 from Fairfax and Favor

THE BAG

FORMAL, , The trusty briefcase has been serving men for the best part of two centuries. This one has been created to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Montblanc’s famous Meisterstuck fountain pen, and it more than lives up to the name with luxurious details like an intricate stainless steel lock, signature white star logo and a full-grain black leather finish.

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Montblanc Meisterstuck Grain Leather Briefcase, £785 from Mr Porter

CASUAL, , Another classic style, the satchel has seemingly been around forever, having been favoured by stylish college students and the fashion set alike. This one’s dark brown leather finish allows it to be worn with practically anything. The visible stitching, nickel-plated buckles and adjustable strap are nice touches too.

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The Cambridge Satchel Company Classic in Dark Brown, £108 from The Cambridge Satchel Company

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