I’m a fashion editor – five items you need in your work wardrobe and how to style them for every day of the week

WITH the cost of living rising by the day, clothes for work may not be at the top of your shopping list.

However, with more and more of us heading back into the office, the struggle over what to wear everyday is real.

But I’ve found all you need is five flexible and affordable pieces from the high street to build a capsule wardrobe.

Not only are the pieces a good price, they will allow you to make the most out of your wardrobe while being more sustainable.

By having these staple items you can mix and match to make multiple outfits that will take you through your entire working week with ease.

Taking the stress out of planning an outfit, this workwear capsule will save you time, effort and of course money.

But where to begin?

My advice is to think about the core staples you wear to work — and in most cases what you can mix into your home-life wardrobe too.

STAND-ALONE PIECES

A wide-leg trouser is a timeless classic and in a neutral colour like this beige pair from M&S below you can be sure it will go with the majority of other items in your wardrobe.

This pair, which retail for under £30, also has an elasticated waist, which is great for making sure you’re extra comfy while still looking smart.

Next up is a white shirt, my absolute wardrobe hero. This one below comes in at £25.99 from Reserved.

Something that never goes out of style, a white shirt can be layered underneath items such as jumpers or dresses, worn separately with trousers or a skirt — and can even be worn over the top of dresses.

A comfortable midi-dress is also a must — it’s easy to throw on and looks great without having thought too much about your outfit.

This printed £25 number from TU at Sainsbury’s below is an absolute steal and the print is bold which I love.

Apart from wearing it as a stand-alone piece, you can add a blazer over the top to smarten it up — or wear it with a jumper over the top to make it look like separates.

Plus you can mix and match any footwear, be it chunky ankle boots or ladylike heels. They all work with a trusty midi.

ELEVATE YOUR OUTFIT

Jumpers — like this multicoloured one below for £14.99 at H&M — can be great for layering.

Plus with office aircon (and cold winter temperatures) they’re also vital for keeping you warm.

If you feel like wearing a jumper with trousers isn’t really smart enough for your office attire, then add your white shirt underneath with the collar out at the top.

This styling hack elevates your outfit and gives the illusion of having dressed up — without making any effort.

To finish off your working week wardrobe you need a blazer — opt for a colour that goes tonally with your wardrobe so you’ll get the maximum use out of it.

This lovely lilac one for £39.99 from Stradivarius above is a great staple.

This way whenever you want to freshen up your look you can add it over the top for an easy, stylish addition.

And there you have it, five easy pieces to mix and match, making your working week wardrobe a lot easier to navigate.