RIP Casual Fridays
You better werk, b*tch. Actually, no, pardon. You better work. W-O-R-K. Because with the world in shambles, back to the office you go — and power-dressed the part.
The phenomena currently at play show their faces every so often: In the wake of uncertainty, people tether themselves to things they are familiar with, to things that lend them a sense of purpose and stability, and reward themselves, à la Lipstick Effect, with palm-sized luxuries as treats for their discipline.
Fashion replicates those sentiments to mirror our lifestyles, and has therefore looked quite Severance by way of '80s office siren lately, what with its big shouldered sport coats, pleated pants, and lacquered lace ups. Don't believe me? Scroll SSENSE and see.
Now cross-bred with a sense of personality-attributing eccentricity, our clothes represent the current state-of-affair's dichotomy; of being in between feelings of professionalism and creativity, eyes-on-the-prize and extraversion, money-making and small splurges.
Serving Corpcore Realness
Juun.J Denim Blazer
A boxy top layer cannot be opted out of in today's no-longer-work-from-home attire. This jeans blazer undoes the classic template's stuck-upness in favor of something more rebellious but equally put together.
Thom Browne Tie Shirt
There are few accessories that read as conservatively corporate as a tie. Thom Browne's near-campy take on the pinstripe button-down lend the look a playful air, and un-stuffs it for a more modern, less serious getup.
Séfr Semi-Sheer Merino Shirt
On the topic of conservatism, this thing would have probably gotten you escorted out of the firm way back when, but offers a cuntemporary — I'm sorry, contemporary — option for businessy outfit propositions.
Gimaguas Twill Trousers
Though I'll let it slide for up-top, we will not be heading to the office in jeans down below. Instead, pick a pair of trousers. Subtle workwear details take away from the severity of proper suit slacks, but help them remain no less in the realm of not-too-casual.
Post Archive Faction Tech Khakis
These lighter, subtly gorp-style tech pants by PAF are another example of how to incorporate leisure into corporate without missing the mark.
Hugo Boss Suit
Of course there's always the possibility to go with a straight up two-piece like this one. It's bright hue and slightly roomy fit give it that deciding factor to distinguish cool from clerk vibes.
PORTER - Yoshida & Co. Briefcase
Are you even employed if you don't sport a briefcase?
LEMAIRE Suede Tote
Even if you're not, you'll still want a voluminous, bowling-esque bag to evoke the impression of having to lug plenty of important things around.
GmbH Loafers
Oh, the loafer. A trusty companion in and outside of the cubicle. GmbH's hammer/pickaxe logo makes for a pleasantly ironic jab a the labor theme at hand.
KLEMAN Derby Shoes
These terracotta derby shoes balance formal footwear with outdoorsy-oddball, for kicks that sit as nicely beneath multi-pocketed weekend cargos as they would a 9-to-5's go-to chino.
