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    1. Fashion
    2. Fall fashion

    Everything I'd Buy for Back-to-Office Dressing

    Dress code approved.

    Natalie Gray Herder's avatar
    By Natalie Gray Herder
    Published 21 August 2025 In Buying Guides

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    Collage of Fall Office Outfit Ideas
    (Image credit: Original Illustration by Makena Frederick)
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    Just because I'm not headed to the classroom doesn't mean I don't deserve a bit of back-to-school shopping. My summer travels are winding down, and I'm making my full-time office debut, so it's time I refresh my corporate wardrobe. Our office keeps it pretty casual compared to other companies, but there are still a few dress code–adherent staples I like to buy. Cashmere sweaters, high-neck dresses, and tailored trousers come to mind first, but footwear and accessories are where I let my personal style shine. This year, there are four brands I've been gravitating toward when it comes to office style: Boden, Madewell, and Steve Madden have the perfect mix of timeless wardrobe pieces and on-trend accessories. To discover my selections from each of these brands, keep reading.

    Fall Shopping

    (Image credit: Original Illustration by Makena Frederick)

    I'm basically copying and pasting the three looks featured in the graphic above into my wardrobe. Each one is so cute, comfortable, and looks put-together for a day at the office and beyond. I love the timeless silhouettes paired with on-trend prints, specifically gingham and polka dots. This brand is living proof that dress code–approved styles don't have to be boring.

    Rib Henley Top-Navy

    Boden
    Rib Henley Top in Navy
    $99
    $99 AT BODEN

    Knightsbridge Gingham Jacket-Chestnut Gingham

    Boden
    Knightsbridge Gingham Jacket-Chestnut Gingham
    $299
    $299 AT BODEN

    Smart 7/8 Pants-Port Gingham

    Boden
    Smart 7/8 Pants in Port Gingham
    $159
    $159 AT BODEN

    Eva Cashmere Vest-Navy

    Boden
    Eva Cashmere Vest in Navy
    $139
    $139 AT BODEN

    Valentina Taffeta Midi Skirt-Navy

    Boden
    Valentina Taffeta Midi Skirt in Navy
    $169
    $169 AT BODEN

    Yoke Panel Maxi Dress-Brown Spot

    Boden
    Yoke Panel Maxi Dress in Brown Spot
    $149
    $149 AT BODEN

    Fall Shopping

    (Image credit: Original Illustration by Makena Frederick)

    The standard work tote has gotten quite the makeover thanks to Madewell. Woven textures, suede fabrics, and stud detailing can be found all over the retailer's accessories shelves in-store and online. My personal favorite is the Essential Bucket Tote, which comes in a wide array of colorways and fabrics. Shop their latest bags and accessories below.

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    The Studded Tote

    Madewell
    The Studded Tote
    $218
    $218 AT MADEWELL

    The Essential Medium Bucket Tote

    Madewell
    The Essential Medium Bucket Tote
    $168
    $168 AT MADEWELL

    The Handwoven Leather Tote

    Madewell
    The Handwoven Leather Tote
    $218
    $218 AT MADEWELL

    Russell Oval Sunglasses

    Madewell
    Russell Oval Sunglasses
    $75
    $75 AT MADEWELL

    Metal Keeper Belt

    Madewell
    Metal Keeper Belt
    $78
    $78 AT MADEWELL

    Small Silk Bandana

    Madewell
    Small Silk Bandana
    $48
    $48 AT MADEWELL

    Fall Shopping

    (Image credit: Original Illustration by Makena Frederick)

    No commuter flats here! Each of these Steve Madden shoes is cool enough to wear in and out of the office—no need to bring a pair to change into. Footwear is where I get the most experimental with my office looks. It's the easiest way to incorporate new trends, and this fall, it's all about boat shoes, mules, animal prints, and suede materials.

    Lytton Burgundy Patent

    Steve Madden
    Lytton Kitten Heel Ankle Boot in Burgundy Patent
    $180
    SHOP NOW

    Lydia Taupe Suede

    Steve Madden
    Lydia Taupe Mary Jane Ballet Flat in Suede
    $100
    SHOP NOW

    Madison Leopard

    Steve Madden
    Madison Loafer in Leopard (Was $100)
    $100$60
    SHOP NOW

    Randall Burgundy Patent

    Steve Madden
    Randall Ballet Flat in Burgundy Patent
    $110
    SHOP NOW

    Rafe Black Leather

    Steve Madden
    Rafe Slip-On Flat in Black Leather
    $110
    SHOP NOW

    Sag Brown Leather

    Steve Madden
    Sag Flat Loafer in Brown Leather
    $100
    SHOP NOW

    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Natalie Gray Herder
    Natalie Gray Herder
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    Editor

    Natalie Gray Herder is an editor on the branded content team at Who What Wear and Marie Claire. Originally from Los Angeles, Natalie decided to make the move to NYC after graduating from Loyola Marymount University in 2019. She had plans of applying to law school until doing a 180 to follow her more creative passions: writing and fashion. She is an avid researcher, reader, and explorer in and out of the office. She is inspired by the street style of her fellow New Yorkers and her laid-back roots in California. 

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