The Fashion expert reveals what really matters when it comes to office styles

When we speak with Cassandra Haider virtually via Zoom, she looks over her computer at the Scottish sea, which she describes for us using her charming Scottish accent. The author and editor of the British magazine The Gentlewoman commutes daily between the coastal town of Fife in Scotland and her office in London – and is fashionably prepared for any situation.

As a long-time fashion editor and even one of the 500 most important people in the industry, according to Business of Fashion in 2023, she surely knows what it takes. Now, Arket releases “The Cassandra Haider Edit” in her honor. A capsule collection for fall 2024, a collection that took inspiration from her life between the Scottish Sea, the train to London, and the office of The Gentlewoman.

Cassandra Haideris talked to InStyle.de in an interview about how to always improve office wear, what she likes to wear at work, and how the collection with Arket came into existence.

British office chic: Cassandra Haider on her collection with Branded and styling tips

MegaloPreneur: What do you believe is important for a fashionable office outfit?

–Of course, start with well-fitted pieces—a fitted blazer and fitted trousers are a must. Then add a pop of individuality bold tie or an elegant watch to give the suit a finishing touch. Opt for a neutral color palette to keep it sophisticated, yet do not be afraid to play around with textures and subtle patterns. Lastly, remember, most of all, comfort is key: choose fabrics that move with you and make you feel confident. Strike that perfect balance between polished and personal.

When you envision a woman who needs to follow through on an office dress code at work – what advice do you have for her if she wants to step up her office clothes a notch?

–For the woman who navigates a workplace dress code but would love to elevate her office style, here are some smart tips: Start with a great, tailored piece of basic clothing: think structured blazer, any really great pieces of chic sheath dresses that fit perfectly. Add subtle yet stylish flair with a statement necklace or a pair of elegant pumps that add a certain something without rocking the dress code. Bring some freshness to your wardrobe with textures and fabrics with a silk blouse and tailored wool skirt. Stick to classic, neutrally versatile colors but by all means, spice it up with a tasteful pattern or splash of color with your accessories. Finally, your outfit should be comfortable so you feel confident and poised through the workday.

How would you describe the average British office style?

–There is a blend of classic elegance with understated sophistication in the most typical British office style. For men, it’s often worked suits in neutral tones like navy, gray, or charcoal, with crisp white or light blue shirts and ties that might have subtle patterns or textures. For women, it’s likely more fitted garments, such as pencil skirts or trousers, paired with a blouse or a fitted blazer. This color palette is rather muted, but famous for its traditional colors including navy, black, and beige. Footwear is polished and quite practical, from the ubiquitous leather brogue of the male office worker to the closed-toe pump of the female one. Accessories are rarely used, yet always stylish, capturing an essentially professional, yet approachable image. Generally speaking, the British office style creates a balance between old-fashioned formality and modern professionalism.

What do you think should be present in every office wardrobe?

–Every office wardrobe should have a few core pieces. However, starting with a perfect classic and well-fitted blazer in a neutral color such as black, navy, or gray is recommended. Then, add two or three tailored trousers or pencil skirts to complement these sharp outfits. Lastly, if budget allows, get some versatile shirts and blouses in solid colors with subtle prints. Add to this a few smart dresses to move seamlessly from meetings into after-work events. Of course, loose, comfortable yet stylish shoes, such as loafers or pumps, complete the look, along with a professional, structured handbag or briefcase. Last, but certainly not least, a few accessories, like a sleek watch or minimal jewelry, may be added to both personalize the outfit and maintain the overall neat look.

What kind of outfit do you think you look the most polished wearing at work?

–Over a crisp, breathable blouse paired with tailored trousers or a knee-length skirt, a very well-tailored blazer scores the perfect balance between comfort and professionalism in the office. Polished but comfortable shoes, such as classic loafers or low heels, cut. In that outfit, one can move freely about the place during the day yet maintain a sharp, put-together appearances. I also love having a stylish, yet practical, bag where things can be well organized and easily grabbed. And the combination keeps me feeling confident and stress-free no matter what the workday brings.

Do you prefer jeans of a certain style to wear in the office? Dark high-waist jeans from Brand, Levi’s, or APC.

–Dark high-waist jeans from Brand, Levi’s, or APC, will all be great office options. Each one will add a certain sense of sophistication to the business casual look. I would go for APC jeans – the difference is their Parisian stylish edge in smooth, flowing silhouette lines, and versatile, multi-dimensional ways of styling.

Office style, as we approach autumn and winter 2024, is predicted to become comfortable elegance. Here, tailored suits with a modern twist will be sported in the finest wool and cashmere fabrics. High-neck sweaters and turtlenecks will be strong contenders, providing both warmth and polished flair. Earthy tones and deep, rich colors such as emerald green, burgundy, and charcoal will dominate the palette and give depth to office attire. Layering will be key with the return of fashionable blazers over warm knitwear, and stylish trench coats and overcoats that are sleekly tailored. Footwear will come through for a fusion between utility and fashion, such as sleek ankle boots and chic loafers.

Were there any people in mind while designing the products?

–The products should be designed with the target audience in mind, hence for office attires, pieces would be created that should provide a style perspective as well as functionality for professionals.

For instance, if one is focusing on high-waist jeans offered by brands such as Branded, Levi’s, or APC, then the design should give satisfaction to persons who love classic yet modern fashion. They shall be made with an acumen for versatility, that is, one should be able to flow from work to leisure easily. The idea would offer comfort and class which finds relevance in today’s offices while still allowing self-expression.

So, it would fundamentally be suitable for the professional man of today with a penchant for elegance, practicability, and a dash of personality to be noticed in one’s wardrobe.

Which of the groups would travel best?

–For traveling, consider versatile, but comfortable articles with minimal care requirements. Choose a lightweight wrinkle-free blazer to complete a tailored look, then pair it with stretchy trousers or leggings for comfort. Smart dresses on crease-resistant fabrics are ideal for easy transitions from day to night wear, whereas cozy knitwear keeps you warm and flexible for layering. Outerwear that has linings that can be easily removed or added for changing climates, with stylish yet comfortable footwear such as loafers or low-heeled boots, is perfect for a person who doesn’t want comfort and style to take a backseat during your travels.

And what do you wear in the home office?

–When it comes to wearing in a home office, prioritizing comfort and practicability rules over everything else. For casual chic, I would instead opt for something casual yet composed, such as soft knit sweaters to complement stretchy, fitted jeans or comfortable trousers. Alternatively, tailored joggers paired with a stylish yet casual blouse may also do the trick. The bottom line is to pick pieces you are comfortable wearing throughout the day yet still presentable when video calls or virtual meetings arise. Very soft, breathable fabrics and easy-to-care-for items create a professional ambiance while working from home.

Do you have any rituals that help you relax when you get to the office after a long day at work?

–Indeed, yes. There are several rituals that unwind after a long day at work. One favorite ritual is starting with a relaxing bath or shower to help shift one’s mode from work to relaxation. After that, I like to get settled in a cozy room with some great reading or smooth music. A little light stretching or yoga can also really help release tension. And finally, turning off screens and spending some time in a quiet space—be it sipping on an herbal cup or meditating—really relaxes and rejuvenates me for the next day.

The most beautiful items from the collection:

–Now, these are probably the most beautiful pieces: a great classic tailored blazer, chic midi-length dress, luxurious knit sweaters, elegant trousers, and a showcase or stands to put them on with unique watches or tasteful jewelry. Every piece of clothing brings elegance and class, quality, and versatility to the combination, thus being some top highlights in the collection.