Ensure that just because the weather turns sour, your wardrobe doesn’t with these top office fashion tips to keep you stylish and warm this winter…

With the leaves falling, the temperatures dropping, and the heating being cranked up more frequently, it can only mean one thing: winter is on its way! And, while it might be one of the most wonderful times of the year, knowing how to dress can be difficult, especially when you work in an office.

So, whether you need to learn how to layer up, or you want to make some new wintery investments, we have the fashion-forward advice you’re looking for. Here, we’ll be sharing our top five office fashion tips to follow this winter…

Opt for stylish but practical shoes

When the winter weather approaches, the ground gets icy and snow begins to fall, so you might need to rethink your shoe choice. If you’re used to wearing heels, you might want to change these for a block style that’ll be safer and more sturdy while you’re trudging through piles of wet leaves. And you don’t have to spend a fortune to look good, be sure to keep an eye out on sales such as black Friday or fast fashion brands for cheap high heels for the office this winter. If part of your work dress code includes wearing dress shoes, you’ll need to put some thought into these too. If your best pair have wooden soles, you should consider switching these for rubber alternatives — not only will they still look great, but they’ll be much more slip-resistant. If your work footwear usually includes slipping on some suede pumps or brogues, you might want to make the switch to leather this season. Not only will they still give you a polished look, but they also withstand the wet weather better.

Layer your workwear

The key to any winter outfit is to layer up. For both women and men this could include putting a thick knitted jumper on over the top of your work shirt or adding an extra layer with a tailored blazer. This can ensure you still look professional, sophisticated, and stylish while keeping warm when the heating hasn’t quite kicked in yet.

If your work has a more relaxed dress code, investing in a chunky Aran knit and some thin thermal tops you can wear underneath will be the perfect way to wrap up. There are extra style points available for polo-neck knits, which will keep your neck warm when you brave the cold. We love this men’s Aran sweater from Guernsey Woollens Ltd. The chunky texture makes it the perfect winter piece, and the timeless cream shade will ensure it goes with an array of your existing workwear. Similar designs are also available for women — this one from WoolOvers will be the envy of your colleagues and, as it has a longer fit, you can keep the top of your legs warm as well!

Choose thicker materials

Corporate dressing for women can often mean tailored skirts and tights. If you want to stick to this aesthetic, we recommend getting a pair of fleece-lined tights, like these Pretty Polly ones from UK Tights. They’ll insulate your legs on the commute, in the office, and everywhere in between.

If you’re a man who’s required to wear work suits, you’ll need to think carefully about the materials they’re made from. If your selection mainly consists of cotton styles that keep you cool in the summer, try investing in a woollen suit. These are a great all-rounder option and will give you a luxurious look for work. Suit tailors like Hawes & Curtis are bound to have a great selection and, with so many colours and fits to choose from you’re bound to find one that suits your needs and style.

Pick an on-trend coat

The worst part of working through the winter is facing the bitterly cold mornings on the commute. But, there is an easy way to make your journeys more bearable: with a warm and stylish coat, making this an integral point on our list of office fashion tips! The A/W18 catwalks were lined with varieties of outerwear to take your outfit to the next level, so why not get some inspiration from the brains behind your favourite luxury brands?

For ladies looking to keep it professional, this Burberry trench coat will be perfect. Not only will the colour and fit make it a timeless piece you can wear all year round, but it also has a detachable hood to keep you dry in the unpredictable British weather. Men can go with a similar style or choose a more tailored puffer jacket to keep it sophisticated. Both are available in a range of colours from a variety of high-street and designer brands, so don’t be afraid to be bold in your picks.

Prepare with accessories

With the additional winter layers coming out, it can be easy to forget to wrap up with the little elements like scarves, gloves and hats. To make a fashion statement on your commute to work, we recommend getting a matching three-piece knitted accessory set. These can lend your outfit some co-ordination or act as bold standout pieces for an extra style boost.

For women, a faux fur bobble hat will be a great addition, while men may appreciate a quick pull-on beanie hat. As these are both popular winter options, you’re bound to find an array of colour options to complete your winter look with.

Dressing for warmth, style, and professionalism can be tricky. But, with our top office fashion tips, you can ensure you look and feel great in the office all winter long.