How to Embrace Workwear Trends for Back to School?

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I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but this fall season, our focus is on the strong trends of autumn/winter at Modalova. 

The fashion week shows have proven it: the styles and fashion trends for the upcoming seasons will be eclectic, structured, yet a bit laid-back.

In our previous posts, we talked about the blazer and the distressed leather jacket, which will be two major jacket trends for autumn. 

But another one has been spotted. This is the workwear style. 

For this fall, work clothes, straight cuts, ties, and pleated skirts will be in the spotlight. 

How can you make this androgynous trend your own? How can you successfully adopt this style straight out of the 80s? Answers in this article.

Workwear Trend: Modernized Work Clothes

Inspired by the work clothing of laborers, workwear outfits had already made a name for themselves among the general public. But it seems that a new fashion momentum has been given to this attire. 

At the autumn/winter 2023-2024 fashion week, haute couture houses and designers have revamped the codes of workwear. On the runways, straight skirts, opaque tights, cardigans, buttons, ties, and deconstructed suits were in the limelight. 

The standards have been reimagined to offer a more androgynous and sexy version of workwear style. The cuts are asymmetrical, the textiles varied, and the looks bolder. Diversity and unisex designs are firmly in the spotlight to provide clothing that suits everyone. 

While the codes of this style are updated, workwear clothing remains faithful to the same guideline: comfort.

The Codes of Workwear in Brief 

Workwear is coming back strong this fall. But among all the trends for fall 2023, it’s easy to overlook this aesthetic if you’re not familiar with its outlines. 

Let me introduce them to you.

Workwear is influenced by the worker style. Bikers, lumberjacks, firefighters… There are many workwear looks, but they all share one point: they embody the essence of the worker from days gone by. We’re looking at a “vintage” look where authenticity reigns supreme. 

It’s also all about comfort. Loose cuts, clothing that feels good, functionality; workwear style is initially more focused on comfort and practicality than aesthetics. Today, workwear is halfway, but still respects this principle: to adorn oneself in comfortable clothing. For this, think of cargo pants, overalls, loose shirts, etc. 

Don’t forget about the notion of sustainability. We invest little, but wisely, so that the pieces we wear last for years. This deeply connects to the notion of simplicity. Workwear-type clothing is generally minimalist, so they can easily anchor themselves in everyday looks. No frills, just aesthetic essentials.

The Key Pieces of the Workwear Trend 

The Jumpsuit 

The jumpsuit places the aesthetics of the working class at the center, but with style. With a more modern twist, workwear jumpsuits come in total denim or linen, deconstructed or oversized with patchwork or monochrome designs. In short, they are effortless, but always cool to wear. 

The Denim Jacket 

A classic, a timeless piece that we adore and can’t live without. The denim jacket is surely one of the basics that has stood the test of time. But above all, it perfectly recalls the codes of workwear. For the fall, to capture the essence of work blues and other vintage clothing, opt for a fitted denim jacket, like the iconic Carhartt workwear jackets. And in a more modern version, look for cropped, oversized, or patchwork denim jackets, etc.

Baggy Jeans

Another star of the workwear look is denim. Not slim, but wide like a baggy, with large pockets everywhere and cuffs. It reminds us of the 50s in the United States and the working vibe, with added style. It can be worn with everything, simply, but above all with ease.

The Pleated Skirt  

More contemporary, it perfectly embodies what workwear is in 2023. The pleated skirt is modest yet bold at the same time. It is beautifully crafted by the trendiest designers like Miu Miu or Saint Laurent. With a shirt and a tie, you are on the verge of overplaying the back-to-school look, but that’s also the essence of the workwear trend.

Ankle Boots 

When it comes to shoes, we naturally opt for a sturdy and durable pair that embodies the codes of workwear. I’m thinking of a pair of leather ankle boots that would pair perfectly with pocket denim, a white crop top, and a bomber jacket. But don’t limit yourself to just one model. A pair of platform loafers elevated by socks and a pleated skirt will also infuse your look with workwear vibes.

The Shopping List to Dress in Workwear Style

Image in the header: © Sandra Semburg