Sarah Sullivan | 6 Tips for Returning to the Office

Sarah helps people find & re-find and develop their own sense of style. She strongly believes in the positive impact of being happy with the way you look and that dressing up every day should be a joy, not a chore!

After a year and a half of working in loungewear and joggers (with maybe the occasional change into a smart top for a zoom call), it’s possible you will soon be venturing further than your home. Fear not, I’ve found some inspiration from my Mys Tyler Feed and created a guide for returning to the office.

So, if you feel like you have lost your style mojo over lockdown – don’t worry - read on and I’ll help you to dress up, show up and be confident.


  1. Dig out your blazer

Most of us have a blazer or a smart jacket lurking in our wardrobe. Perhaps you have only worn it for a wedding or special occasion. You can give it a smart-casual spin by putting it over a t-shirt and pairing it with jeans, a skirt, a summer dress, or a jumpsuit. You will instantly look like you have made an effort. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Amanda wears an oversized blazer from Madewell, size S. This style is no longer available, but you can shop similar styles here.


2. Add an accessory or two!

Add a bit of polish and personality to your outfit with a statement necklace or even a simple pendant, gold or silver earrings, a bright hairband or a bright bag. If a coloured bag isn’t your thing you can’t go wrong with a classic tan tote, it will literally go with all your outfits and it will be big enough for your packed lunch and laptop so win-win!!

Sandra @im.sandradee wears the Frank Shirt dress from Camilla and Marc in size 10, and sunglasses from Saint Laurent. Find similar sunglasses here.


3. Brighten up your lips!

You will be surprised at what a difference just wearing a bright lip color makes not only to your appearance but to how you feel too. It will add a spring to your step! Why not go all out with a bold red or try a more gentle pink shade.


4. Try some smart denim

There are lots of ways to wear denim for a smart casual dress code. Pair your denim skirt with a blazer t-shirt and fancy flats, wear your denim dress with a necklace, hairband and bright lip. Even a smart denim jumpsuit would be acceptable with polished earrings, a tan tote and flats. Or what about tucking a denim shirt into a skirt or trousers?


5. Not ready for heels?

Let’s face it most of us are out of practice when it comes to wearing heels! If you aren’t ready to break yourself in yet try a pair of elegant flats. The loafer or ballet shoe always looks smart and comfort is key, especially if you have a commute to the office. Marks and Spencer have a great selection of camel or black pairs or if you are feeling a bit braver go for a statement leopard print. Leopard print is also neutral so it will go with all your outfits.

Sonish @sonishspace wears Leather Loafers from M & S Collection in size 7. Available here.


6. If you only buy one new thing, make it a shirt dress!

It will look smart for the office and after work drinks, however can easily be dressed down for the weekends. It would even be beach appropriate. Sussan, Next and New Look have some fabulous ones at the moment plain or printed the choice is yours.

Isabel @thebellastylingco wears the Linen Day Dress from Sussan in size 12. Shop here.

Love, Sarah xx

To read more and connect with Sarah, visit her website https://www.stylesolutionsbysarah.co.uk/


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