A Celeb Guide to Workwear—No Dress Code Violations, Promise!

How to style office no-nos

By Raleigh Burgan Aug 17, 2016 7:30 PMTags
ESC: Lily Aldridge, Office No-nosJames Devaney/GC Images

When you look at Lily Aldridge in that magical green number, "office-appropriate" probably isn't a term that comes to mind.

Why is that? It's because you've been taught that when it comes to dressing appropriately (keyword: appropriately) for the office, there are certain style no-nos that should be avoided at all costs. To some extent, that's reasonable (that plunging V probably isn't the best thing to wear to your board meeting), but there's definitely a workaround for most style scenarios.

Low Necklines

A neckline like the Victoria's Secret model's isn't workplace-friendly—true—but it can be with a little outfit tweaking! Wear a turtleneck underneath to create the perfect high-low levels, keeping the look somewhat symmetrical, while also off-balancing the sexiness of your lace bodysuit. You're covering up without really covering up. Keep all your accessories minimal and business-like when working with such a statement. This gorgeous combination will disguise the fact you're not willing to play by their rules.

Fleur Du Mal Rose Lace Bodysuit, $227; Rebecca Minkoff Mini Suki Crossbody, $175; Uniqlo Women's Chiffon Pleated Skirt, $30; Jeffrey Campbell Perpetua Mules, $110; French Connection Polly Plains Roll Neck Top, $48

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Denim Cutoffs

Firstly, who doesn't love denim cutoffs? But rocking a pair like Kelly Rowland's to your place of work doesn't yet seem plausible. A golden rule when it comes to this look is choose your shorts wisely. Of course, it's going to be an impossible feat if your shorts are overly ripped or showing too much skin (read: No one should be seeing your cheeks), but if you go for a darker wash with minimal distressing it's smooth sailing.

Topping any outfit off with a blazer equals instant business casual vibes. And to complete the look, go for a plain-white tee, sneakers, a cool clutch and some sort of accessory. A bandana is always a nice touch.

TNA Slope T-Shirt, $32; J.Crew Paisley Bandana, $13; Clare V Supreme Margot Printed Leather Clutch, $215; Rag & Bone Catskill Clean Denim Cut Offs, $85; Mango Patch-Pocket Blazer, $45; Adidas Stan Smith Sneaker, $75 

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Sheer Clothing

If it's see-through, chances are it's too scandalous for the office, right? Wrong. Throw a cami or long bralette underneath Kendall Jenner's long-sleeved top and you're good to go. Some mom jeans (or really any high-waisted denim for that matter), chunky ankle-strap heels, a choker and cute bag later and you've got yourself one high-fashion number. Style tip: Tuck your top into your pants for a cleaner, more polished look.

Zara Mom Jeans, $40; Les Petits Joueurs Alex Black Widow Shoulder Bag, $875; Are You Am I Lilou Leather Choker, $49; H&M Camisole Top, $10; Zara Plumetis Blouse, $30; Steve Madden Irenee Ankle Strap Sandal, $80

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Slip Dresses

You already know there are many playful ways to style a slip dress outside of work, but it's another thing to style one for work. The trick is to cover up as many areas where your skin would usually be showing as possible. Throw a T-Shirt, tank or bralette under your slip dress then have fun with all the add-ons! Do be selective when it comes to your accessories though because one black choker later and you're looking at a '90s-themed getup (which isn't bad when you're off the clock, but can come off a little too youthful in the office).

Zara Long Shiny Dress, $70; H&M Rib-Knit Short-Sleeved Top, $18; Zoe Chicco 14K Gold Knuckle Rings, $150; BP. Round Handle Faux Leather Tote, $49; Aldo Qilalla Sunglasses, $16; Forever 21 Faux Leather Ankle Booties, $35 

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