I’ve Struggled To Find Workwear That Makes Me Feel Great – Until I Found This High Street Collection

Workwear has become something of a misnomer in 2025, with the events of the past five years, not to mention the hybrid working model, muddying the waters over what exactly constitutes an office-appropriate outfit. Perhaps controversially, however, I’m keen to reacquaint myself with the concept. I’m tired of wearing a rotation of tracksuit bottoms at home (and, frankly, the less said about my dressing gown the better). Instead, I’m ready to embrace a new kind of workwear, which thankfully doesn’t resemble the kind of ‘power’ dresses, high-heeled pumps and pinstripe blazers last seen in Industry. What it does involve is a smarter approach to everyday clothes that will actually make you excited for office days, while still holding their own at the weekend.

Whistles has always been on my radar for exactly this sort of wardrobe for years, but its latest collection is definitive proof that it’s the best place on the high street for new-and-improved workwear.

First up, co-ords (i.e. coordinating separates that can be paired together or worn by themselves). I’ve got my eye on a black linen set, comprising a button-down vest that’s nicely tailored at the waist and a flared midi skirt. Together, I think it makes a comfortable yet decidedly chic alternative to trouser suits (I also plan to pair the waistcoat with knee-length denim shorts for off-duty).

Any workwear outfit worth its salt needs a cover-up of sorts. Luckily, the jacket of the season, a leather blouson, is perfect for the office. Its popularity has been helped in no small part by a superlative version at Whistles. The Kate burnished leather jacket has a worn feel to its fabric that means it looks as though it’s been in your wardrobe for years, while the boxy silhouette will lend effortlessness to whatever you’re wearing (shirting, jeans, linen, you name it). The barn jacket has also been such a hero over the past year. Whistles’s Fern waxed jacket is out in a new colour just in time for summer when, yes, it’s probably still worth having a cover-up to hand at all times.

Finally, the dresses. I don’t wear many to work because they usually either feel too smart or too casual. Whistles, however, has several versions that strike the ideal balance. Its Karina sleeveless midi dress has the gorgeously sleek lines and contrast stitching of something with a more expensive price tag than £149, while its simple tank silhouette is chicer than anything puff-sleeved. For smarter occasions still, I’ve bookmarked the brand’s fringed midi dress, an elevated column with details at the neck and hemline that give it a little something extra.

Finally, workwear that we can all get on board with.

Shop: The Best Workwear Buys From Whistles

Natalie Hammond is senior fashion news editor at Grazia. She loves winter, hates summer and can often be found writing about the weather (and what on earth to wear).