Most of my weekdays are spent in the Marie Claire office, which is why I built a complete collection of professional outfits, like custom pantscrisp button down shirtsand elegant blazers to create an easy work uniform. I also rely on a rotation of the best work dresses to anchor my semi-corporate style capsule wardrobeespecially during the summer months.
Most work days you can find me in a minimalist style sheath dress with a light cardigan draped over my shoulders. I'm going to put on flat shoes, like ballerinas Or strollersthat make it easier to run from one meeting to the next. For a casual look in the heat of summer, I would pair a linen dress with a pair of work sneakers next to an oversized handbag It's big enough for my laptop and everything I need.
I'm not the only one in the Marie Claire office that swears by a collection of work dresses to conquer its 9-to-5 job. Entertainment Director Neha Prakash and Celebrity and Royal Family Editor Rachel Burchfield champion of minimalist summer dresses, while the editor-in-chief of the news Halie the Savage prefers to complement its range of work dresses with playful prints. Beauty editor Gabrielle Ulubay and editor-in-chief of fashion e-commerce Julia Marzovilla I recommend shift dresses and nap dresses for a comfortable fit, and contributing editor Katherine J. Igoe She says shirt dresses are her favorite.
Everyone has their own style and preferences, but the best work dresses should always prioritize making you look and feel your best. You can always have fun with dress codes that call for silhouettes with lower hemlines and higher necklines. That's why Marie Claire curated a selection of the best work dresses—from the best lightweight linen dress styles to printed summer dress styles—complete with reviews and editor seals of approval.
Minimalist dresses
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“I love patterns and bright, bold colors elsewhere, but in the office, I generally like to stick to solid hues and structured silhouettes,” says Burchfield, who shares that Calvin Klein’s tulip-sleeve dress is her favorite.
Prakash agrees, noting that she prefers dresses in neutral tones like Toteme's linen-blend maxi dress. “This dress may look simple, but it works—pun unintended—to each “In a professional situation, whether I am participating in a coffee chat, an office meeting or an elegant business dinner.”
Midi and Maxi Dresses
For the most part, a dress with a hemline that falls below the knee or around the ankles will work for any office dress code. Proenza Schouler and Victoria Beckham both master the fit-and-flare silhouette, while brands like Reformation compromise with a plethora of fitted, midi-length styles. If you do opt for a fitted style, just be careful not to go for a bodycon fit.
Loose straight dresses
Getting dressed for work during a heat wave is no easy feat. Ulubay relies on J.Crew’s sheath dress to help you get through summer’s hottest days in style. “The way it’s cut means it never clings too much to my skin, and the linen fabric is super breathable,” she says. Try similar styles from Veronica Beard and COS, which are short enough to keep you cool but still work-appropriate.
Pointed Shirt Work Dresses
Defined by a neat pointed collar, crisp cotton fabric, and charming button fronts, a shirt dress has a professional edge that makes it a non-negotiable workwear staple. If you’d rather stick with a standard shirting style, try Everlane’s boxy Oxford dress. To add a touch of texture to the look, Igoe recommends Brochu Walker’s Havana dress. “The tiered fabric makes the dress look very chic,” she says. Alternatively, opt for Tory Burch’s pleated poplin shirt dress that adds volume and a sleek belt from waist to toe.
Brochu Walker The Havana Dress
Easy to wear wrap dresses
The beauty of a wrap dress is that it can be worn on its own. With its crossover design and cinched belt, you don't need to add much to this look, making dressing for the office a little easier, especially if you're in a hurry. Depending on how much coverage you want, Veronica Beard and Ralph Lauren offer options with longer sleeves, while Mango designs a chic sleeveless version.
Fitted sheath dresses
For days at the office, when you want a “serious” aesthetic, slip into a sculpted sheath dress that commands attention. Vince and Akris offer polished daytime alternatives in bright, cheerful hues, while Theory’s all-black take can easily be transformed into a chic look for after-work drinks or dinner.
Breathable linen and cotton dresses
By organizing your wardrobe summer work outfits For the warmer months ahead, you’ll want a few breathable styles in soft linen and lightweight cotton blends to help keep you cool. Keep your look neutral with Staud and Tibi, or try a pop of bright color with L’AGENCE. These airy dresses are also ideal for warm-weather occasions outside the office, like a trip to the beach or a picnic in the park.
Comfortable Nap Dresses
According to the editor-in-chief of Fashion E-Commerce Julia MarzovillaHill House's signature nap dress is so comfortable, she could literally fall asleep in it. “The fabric is super lightweight, and the roomy construction doesn't make me overheat,” she says. Banana Republic and Ganni also offer roomy nap dress styles to choose from when comfort is a priority.
Ganni Cotton Poplin V-Neck Maxi Dress
Printed dresses in neutral tones
“Like many other fashionistas, my work wardrobe leans too heavily toward neutrals,” says the news editor. Halie the Savage“This Rixo dress keeps me in my comfort zone, palette-wise, but mixed prints are so much more fun than standard black and white,” she adds. Patterned styles from DÔEN and Veronica Beard also feature playful prints without coming across as maximalist.