Work wardrobes and corporate wardrobes have changed a bit in the last few years, for obvious reasons. Some offices are still firmly suit-and-tie, and that’s fine, but most are starting to loosen things up a little. Chinos are making a comeback. Suiting separates are all the rage. There’s even rumours of sneakers (pro office tip: don’t wear sneakers to work until you see your boss wearing sneakers to work).

Yep, the old days of corporate chic are officially over (we’re calling it). In this article, we’re going to look at how to relax your work wardrobe, but you should also check out our Office Edit for shoe and accessory inspiration. We keep it updated, based on the latest workwear trends and product launches. Okay, time to loosen that tie. Here’s how to relax your work wardrobe.

Some offices will always require a suit and tie, global pandemic or not. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck hobbling around in painful business shoes. If your workplace insists on leather lace-ups, try something with more support, like our DYLAN dress shoes, maybe paired with a sleek MONTORO briefcase. They’ve got our special D’ORO innersole, backed with half leather sole. It’s like walking around on two very stylish marshmallows. For something a little more casual, and warm weather-friendly, check out our ALBERTO loafers. You can even kick these off under your desk for that weirdly satisfying socks-on-carpet feel.

A lot of offices are starting to realise there’s more to life than a three-piece suit. These are the ‘smart casual offices’ and they require smart casual shoes. (Pro tip: if your office has a mini-fridge stocked with beer, or any number of ping pong tables, it’s a smart casual office). This is the perfect excuse to mix up fabrics and relax your work wardrobe. During the summer months, opt for natural fabrics like linen and cotton, as well as roomier, wide-leg chino pants, cuffed high. For shoes, think Chukka boots, like the DECLAN in brown leather or the CORTES in a soft brown suede.

A few years ago, this would have been a hard ‘No’. But we’re living in a post-apocalyptic corporate world now, and the old rules are off. You can definitely get away with sneakers in the office now, especially as a commuter option. We’ve written an entire guide to business sneakers, but here are some simple rules to follow. Keep your sneakers clean and sharp. No crazy patterns, mud or clashing colours. Look for good-quality leather sneakers, like our DECO 2.0 or SMITH. And think about colour, too. White sneakers will work under navy chinos, while tan or khaki sneakers will complement an earthy linen suit. If in doubt, double check with your boss.