Pullovers in the workplace? Yes, it's possible! Here's 9 ways to work smart with your sweater

Make that pullover work

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Some days, just some, we do not feel like being all ‘chiffon and blousey’. Meh. We want to be as dressed down as we can possibly be, whilst also looking dressed up. Sounds complicated, but it’s easier than you think! Say hello to the comfy-but-chic pullover attire.

We sure hope these tips give you some wriggle room to get creative with your office #OOTDs!

 

Accessorise with a plain pullover

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To keep things classy, your best bet is to go with a plain pullover like this one in a subtle beige, then add some statement earrings to instantly elevate your look. The focus will be on your earcandy, which comes in a winning combination of rose gold vermeil and raw-cut amazonite stones.

Rib-knit jumper, H&M

Monica Vinader siren rose gold vermeil amazonite earrings, Net-a-Porter

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it

Balance things out with a structured bag

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Pullovers can be rather shapeless, so you want to opt for a structured bag to balance the “puffiness” and not veer into casual territory. A smart and sleek bag is all you need – this one from Gucci resembles a modern, female version of the briefcase, and the striking red, which shouts #girlboss, just seals the deal.

Lanvin two-tone wool sweater, Net-a-Porter

Gucci Sylvie medium chain-embellished leather tote, Net-a-Porter

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it

It's all in the details

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Strategy is the name of the game when you’re incorporating a tricky piece into your work outfit. Choose pullovers with chic details so you don’t look like you just rolled out of bed. For instance, ruffle trims embellished with crystals and faux pearls, and a striped ruffled bib and cuffs add visual interest and lend polish to your look.   

Mother of Pearl Freda embellished ruffle-trimmed waffle-knit wool-blend sweater, Net-a-Porter

REDValentino ruffle-trimmed striped cotton sweater, Net-a-Porter

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it

Always go with heels

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Heels are a surefire way to look professional. Throw on some pointy ones so you don’t just get that much-desired height boost, but also look even more put together with the tapered toe box. These suede shoes in a unique dark grey-blue, together with a complementary striped pullover, will get your boss’ stamp of approval.

Saint Laurent striped cashmere sweater, Net-a-Porter

Suede court shoes, H&M

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it

Pair with a pencil skirt

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The pencil skirt is a staple in the work wardrobe, and the form-fitting piece can be teamed with a neutral pullover for a modern ensemble. Tip: Go with a cropped pullover to highlight your natural body proportions – you also don’t have to tuck it into your skirt, which is already pretty unforgiving on the waist!

The Elder Statesman cropped cashmere sweater, Net-a-Porter

Altuzarra Vic houndstooth stretch-crepe pencil skirt, Net-a-Porter

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it

Throw on a blazer

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The best way to hide the fact that you’re wearing a pullover to work is to… cover up. Wear a spiffy jacket to amp up the formal vibe and hardly anyone will notice your inner layer. Best if the jacket is of an eye-catching (but not overly distracting) shade, so the attention will solely be on your outer wear.

Knitted jumper, H&M

Tailored suit jacket, Topshop

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it

Match with fitting pants

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Tailored pants is another work wardrobe essential. A pair of dogtooth checkered trousers with a defined silhouette can afford you some leeway with a slightly more casual top, like this khaki jumper. Oh yes, we’re definitely loving the ties at the cuffs – it’s all about the details, remember?

Ribbed jumper, H&M

Dogtooth check suit trousers, H&M

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it

Layer with a white blouse

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This trick never gets old. Pull off preppy chic by wearing a crisp white blouse under your pullover. Together with some sophisticated earrings and strappy heels, you’ll be on top of your cosy work outfit game.

Oversized jumper, H&M

Wide cotton shirt, H&M

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it

Avoid pullovers with graphic prints and slogans

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Last but not least, remember that your favourite loud pullovers are best left for weekend brunch. If you’re hesitating about a piece, it’s better to drop it. Sometimes, we may get too comfortable pushing boundaries that we forget the workplace is still a workplace after all – we can’t expect to be taken seriously wearing a Spongebob Squarepants pullover.

Image: 123rf.com

READ MORE: How to wear fifty shades of… blue to the office and On-point outfit ideas to wear on days you’re just not feeling it