WHAT TO WEAR NOW

Wherever you are, whatever your feelings about this past year’s work situation, there is one universal subject that fills all of us former office dwellers with a low level of anxiety: 

Return to office. 

Whether you’ve fallen into a groove and love working from the comfort of your couch, or you hate the isolation and miss all the office perks, returning to work represents yet another monumental change in the way you live—and dress for—your life. 

The truth is that for the past year or so, whether or not we want to admit it, we’ve been sartorially lazy. While we may have looked polished in the ever-present reflection of the Zoom preview, our lower halves have been languishing in the obscurity of yoga pants and sweats for the past 16 months. We’ve forgotten what it’s like to feel polished, presentable—even hot, as we’ve pushed aside classic standbys like polished denim, structured pieces, and pencil skirts in favor of easier choices like elastic waistbands, roomy fits, and nap-friendly fabrics. 

And while we’re super excited to get back the confidence boost of rocking a head-to-toe look, we also understand that the rules have changed. What used to work for the office may not still, and things that worked at home may now make sense at work. We know it’s all a little scary, but we’ve got some good news: we’re here to help. 

Welcome to Levi’s® Return-to-Office Guide. 

We’ve put together 4 office-ready looks that are chic, yet comfortable and range from start-up casual to polished professional, all with that classic Levi’s sense of style. Plus, we’re breaking down these outfits for the office and explaining why they work, so that you can replicate them yourself. You can thank us later (in person!)

Why it works:

• Elastic in the puff sleeves take your favorite pandemic accessory—elastic stretch—and make it back-to-office ready.
• The romantic silhouette with billowy volume, a square neckline, and offset bow is totally trending right now.
• Cinched waist and a relaxed leg give you the perfect amount of tailoring for a flattering fit that’s still laid-back and comfortable.
• The windowpane pattern and box pleating are borrowed from menswear and contrast the feminine silhouette of the top for a nouveau-suiting feel.

Why it works:

• A blue menswear stripe and denim are rooted in historical workwear garments (think train engineers) and we love the idea of that as a playful nod to “workwear.”
• A button front and foldover collar are all business, while a short sleeve and brightly-colored print are ready for happy hour.
• Light wash jeans are the epitome of laid-back chill and help to temper the tailored nature and regimented verticality of the printed shirt.
• We love the idea of out-of-the-box outerwear with this look. It plays on the idea of a suit jacket, while still letting you express yourself.

Why it works:

• This. Knit. Think of this cable knit vest as the upscale version of your go-to hoodie. Both are woven with the same general technique, but the only one says “polished and office-ready.” We’ll let you guess which one.
• We did tell you the ’90s women's fashion is back and there’s nothing like a bootcut to make you really believe it. We missed how flattering the wider ankle silhouette can be when it balances out the hip.
• The pop of complementary color in the pants adds just the right amount of attitude while still managing to stay professional. Plus, this particular shade is giving us contemporary Nantucket Red energy to match with our modern prep vibe.
• Layer up on outerwear. We love a layered look, especially when it involves some unexpected denim. It adds effortless complexity without getting too busy thanks to the essential nature of chambray.

Why it works:

• This look is just plain joyful. Bold colors meet splashy patterns, and it's a VIBE. Is that serotonin we feel?
• Inspired by blooming florals, this natural print is actually reminding us how amazing it is to leave the house. That is the kind of positivity we need right now, honestly.
• Dark streamlined denim lets the vibrant elements of this look absolutely shine. We love how balanced this is.
• Honestly, look at the model—just killing it with the power poses. If you channel half of this absolute electric confidence when you wear this look, you’ll be able to do anything when you go back. We’re not saying it's all because of the outfit, but the outfit definitely helps.