Can You Wear Jeans in the Office?
Absolutely. But not all jeans, and not in every workplace.
As workplace dress codes have relaxed, denim has become completely normal in many professional environments. The challenge is that there is a big difference between wearing jeans and looking considered in jeans.
For me, it comes down to fit, finish and what you style them with.
A clean, well-fitting jean in a dark or mid-blue wash can form the foundation of a very polished work outfit. Straight-leg, wide-leg and more tailored, trouser like denim shapes can work particularly well.
I then think about the pieces around them.
A great blazer, structured jacket, crisp shirt, knit, loafer or polished flat can immediately shift denim from weekend dressing into professional territory.
However, most importantly I always suggest clients “read the room”.
A creative agency, technology business or relaxed corporate environment may embrace denim. A conservative professional services environment or an important client or board meeting may require something entirely different.
One of the biggest changes I’ve seen in workplace dressing is that the rules are no longer as clear as they once were. That doesn't mean there are no rules, it means we need to become better at understanding context.
My simple formula for office denim:
Great fit + considered wash + polished pieces around it + appropriate environment.
Jeans can absolutely look professional.
With style,
Caitlin
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