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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. The best workwear for women is what you feel professional and comfortable in — but also lets you express some personal flare. Chinese Clothing Manufacturers
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, the best flats, and more.
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.
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 pants were a luxury item out of your reach? Well, Quince has the remedy. In addition, they also make some of the best white button-downs for women and men.
Read our full review of Quince here.
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.
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.
Mango is a lifestyle brand that concentrates on well-crafted wardrobe staples with a Mediterranean flair.
Sizing options: Varies by style, many range between XXS and 4XL
Barcelona-born Mango is a full-service lifestyle brand with collections for adults, teens, kids, and even the home. Mango draws inspiration from its traditional Mediterranean roots, while its office collection has a more contemporary flair. Classic suits and blazers can be styled over their comfy basics for an office ensemble with both utility and versatility.
Mango's office collection also includes chic accessories such as tech sleeves and elegant jewelry. Many of their pieces are designed to transition easily from work to nightlife and have the stamina to maintain relevance through ever-shortening trend cycles.
& 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.
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.
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
Mens Clothing Wholesale Vendors 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.