For your first smart work wardrobe you do not need a full closet. Start with six basics in neutral colours: two tops, two trousers, an extra layer such as a cardigan and smart shoes. Choose pieces that combine with each other, fit well and can take a lot of wear. That way you dress neatly in the first weeks without spending a large budget straight away.
Start with a small base
Anyone starting a first job often feels the pressure to have a complete work wardrobe straight away. That is not necessary. You do not yet know exactly how formal the office is, what colleagues wear and which pieces you will really put on often. So start with a small base and build on it once you know the office. That prevents unnecessary purchases and makes sure your clothes suit your daily practice.
A handy guideline is that a new piece combines with several existing items. That way you multiply the number of outfits without your closet growing. With a small base you can already make different combinations.
The six basics
- A shirt or blouse in white or light blue. A simple base for many work wardrobes.
- A second top with a different structure, such as a fine-knit polo.
- A trouser in navy or black. A versatile basic piece.
- A second trouser in grey or taupe for variety.
- A cardigan or jacket for cool offices and important moments.
- Smart shoes in a calm colour, such as loafers or low pumps.
For women
A good blouse is the starting point. The Delphine in white is fitted with princess seams and consists of 35% bamboo, 30% microfibre, 30% polyester and 5% elastane. White combines easily and is a calm choice in many workplaces. Combine it with the Arabelli in navy, a high-waist trouser with pleats and 5% elastane. The high waist keeps a tucked-in blouse nicely in place.
For cool mornings or air conditioning, a cardigan can be handy. The Veronique cardigan in light grey is made of 100% lyocell and suits both white and navy. You can find more inspiration for the working week in the Office for Women collection.
For men
Start with a good shirt. The Hamilton in white is made of 100% cotton and has an Italian collar. Wear it with the Vincent in black, a slim-fit mid-rise trouser made of 33.5% viscose, 31.6% polyamide, 29.1% polyester and 6.8% elastane. For days when you want to be less formal, the Edmund in light grey melange is a fine-knit polo with quarter zip made of 100% lyocell. It works under a cardigan and can be worn tucked in or out. Discover more in the Office for Men collection.
What you can wear with this base
| Day | Women | Men |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Delphine with the Arabelli | Hamilton with the Vincent |
| Tuesday | Delphine, Veronique cardigan, Arabelli | Edmund with the Vincent |
| Wednesday | Veronique over the Delphine, Arabelli | Hamilton with rolled-up sleeves, Vincent |
| Thursday | Delphine, Arabelli, loafers | Edmund, Vincent, loafers |
| Friday | Veronique, Arabelli, sneakers | Edmund, Vincent, smart sneakers |
You can combine the same basic pieces differently several times a week.
What to buy first, and what can wait
- First: a trouser that fits perfectly and a top that you like. Those are the pieces you wear most.
- Next: a cardigan or jacket, and a second trouser.
- Later: a blazer or sport coat, an extra pair of shoes, accessories such as a belt or a good-quality bag.
- Maybe never: trendy pieces that you only wear once. Only let yourself be tempted by those once your base is complete.
Choosing colours: keep it calm
As a starter you can begin with three colours: a dark base (navy or black), a light one (white or light blue) and a soft in-between colour (grey or taupe). Everything you buy takes its colour from this palette. That makes combining simpler. Later you can add an accent colour, such as burgundy or olive.
Fitting and fit
Fit is more important than just the price of a garment. Pay attention to the shoulder, the sleeve length, the waist and the leg length. Try everything on seated and with your arms raised. If necessary, have a sleeve or leg shortened by a tailor. A small adjustment can clearly improve the fit.
How to care for your work wardrobe
With few pieces you wear them more often, so care counts. Let clothes air after wearing and always follow the care label when washing and drying. Our care instructions give an overview per material. Store each garment according to material and care advice; much knitwear keeps its shape better when folded.
The first months: expanding without overdoing it
After three months you know what you wear. Look for the pieces you have had the longest and put on most often, and complete those: a second shirt, a second cardigan, a blazer. For pieces you do not wear, check whether the fit, colour or function is the reason. A work wardrobe is not a project that is finished, but a small collection that grows with you.
Shop the look
Delphine: fitted blouse, white
Arabelli: high-waist trouser with pleats, navy
Veronique: fine-knit cardigan, light grey
Hamilton: cotton shirt with Italian collar, white
Vincent: slim-fit trouser, black
Edmund: fine-knit polo with quarter zip, light grey melange
Frequently asked questions
How much clothing do I need for my first job?
Six to eight pieces can be a practical base for a working week: two tops, two trousers, a cardigan or jacket and smart shoes.
Which colours do I choose as a starter?
A dark base such as navy or black, a light colour such as white or light blue and an in-between colour such as grey or taupe.
Do I need a suit for my first job?
Not always. At many offices a shirt or blouse with a smart trouser is enough. Ask about the dress code before you buy a suit.
What do I do if I do not know how formal the office is?
If in doubt, ask about the dress code and adjust your wardrobe once you know the working environment better. You can always take off a cardigan or jacket.
