‘Businesswoman Special’ and the updated art of uniform dressing

Social media's fascination with the 'businesswoman special' means mixing corpcore with a good dose of stealth wealth.

By Aaron Kok - 21 Sep 2023

Share this article

In the 1997 cult film Romy and Michele's High School Reunion, there is a scene where the two characters change into a set of black blazers, and remind themselves that from that point on, they are "sophisticated, educated, successful career women". They then proceed to ask a diner staff if they have a "businesswoman special", and right there and then, a meme was born.

But when you break it down, aren't we all a little Romy and Michele, especially when we get up each morning and go through the same routine of getting dressed for work? You pull out something, throw it on, and you're off to the coffee shop for a morning java before settling down at your desk by 9am.

That's the art of uniform dressing – knowing that everything you own fits your style so seamlessly that you could get dressed in a snap. Sure, it's not dressed up, but uniform dressing doesn't aim to wow. It aims to retain function and comfort, and it's about being presentable without being distracting.

Now throw in stealth wealth – or 'quiet luxury', if you prefer – and that's social media's new approach to the 'businesswoman special'. It's a look that's ready for signing deals and moving up the ranks, without the bells and whistles.

Short textured weave blazer, $119, Zara

1/11

Dark tailoring is the choice for most CBD-ians, but there's plenty of mileage in a light cream blazer too. Perfect for pairing with those Casual Friday denims.

shop now

Small Drop bag, $4,250, Bottega Veneta

2/11

The Drop bag is a great investment piece to consider. The unique droplet shape provides ample storage space, and slings on as a shoulder or a crossbody style.

shop now

Multi-stitch cardigan, US$119 (S$160), Arket

3/11

What's great about this cardigan is that you could wear it over your office blouses, or throw it on as a top on its own.

shop now

Wide cargo trousers, $84.95, H&M

4/11

Cargo pants are still going strong, and this one meets the trend at a budget-friendly price tag.

shop now

Black leather high-heeled shoes, $1,790, Fendi

5/11

Mix business with a little bit of pleasure with these Delfina pumps. Mary Janes from the front, a party-ready gold block heel in the back.

shop now

Pearl chain necklace, $884, Hatton Labs at Farfetch

6/11

Interspersed by beads in a variety of blue tones, this necklace is as versatile and timeless as it gets.

shop now

Braxton shirt, $375, Annie Bing

7/11

Contemporary luxury brand Annie Bing is known amongst insiders for her no-fuss, well-made clothing. This Braxton striped shirt is no exception. Whether you're wearing it tucked into a pencil skirt or over a tank top and pants, it promises good mileage.

shop now

Deconstructed wool jumper, US$135 (S$183), COS

8/11

A sliced-up neckline gives this classic black jumper a little twist.

shop now

24-carat gold plated Gilded Crustacean hoop earrings, £225 (S$390), Alighieri

9/11

Reminiscent of seashells, these sculptural danglers will elevate any plain work 'fit.

shop now

Leather penny loafers, $1,690, Miu Miu

10/11

Perfect for the days when you want to give your feet a little break from the stilettos.

shop now

Convertible belted metallic bouclé-tweed and georgette midi dress, US$559 (S$752), Self-Portrait at Net-A-Porter

11/11

Beyond just being another dress, you can detach the top and skirt and wear them separately. Talk about bang for your buck.

shop now