DRESSES THAT REDEFINE BUSINESS-FORMAL ATTIRE

A business-formal dress code is anything but restrictive when you choose apparel and accessories that express your own unique sense of style. Although a traditional suit is always a safe bet when an event calls for business formal, women shouldn’t overlook the convenience and sophistication of dresses.

Dresses not only help ensure you look and feel your best, but their versatility also allows for creative styling that can elevate your look. We’ll explain a few tips for following business-formal dress codes and introduce top designers known for offering on-point looks.

PROFESSIONAL DRESS CODE STYLING AND ACCESSORIZING

When it comes to understanding what business-formal attire is, think of it as the workplace equivalent of wearing your holiday best. You want to look polished and professional without being too dressy or too casual. It’s a fine line, but we have recommendations to ease your “what to wear?” worries. 

Silhouettes 

Although tradition dictates that dark solid colors are the business-formal standard, today’s office culture has everyone looking on the bright side. Even a bold print can qualify as business formal, depending on the silhouette.

When it comes to selecting a style, Neiman Marcus offers a wide range of office-bound options, be it a belted shirt dress, long-sleeve maxi dress, or streamlined midi. 

Length 

Today’s dresses come in a range of lengths, making it easy to find options for any occasion and setting. For a look that takes you to the boardroom and beyond, choose a close-fitting dress with a pencil skirt and skinny self-belt. Fridays are reserved for something more relaxed and fun, which is why a wrap dress in a pretty print proves you’re not all business all the time. 

Finishing touches

Jewelry is the decorative ornamentation that adds interest to any outfit. Whether it’s a subtle accent that shimmers quietly or the wow factor that immediately draws the eye in, even the simplest pieces can express character. Try a delicate strand of pearls, a pendant necklace, diamond stud earrings, or a sophisticated watch.

Footwear

Shoes are an excellent medium for expression. It’s one area with few dress-code restrictions, making way for chunky loafers, sleek booties, ballet flats, and sometimes even designer sneakers. Heels are always a professional go-to but no longer a requirement; it’s up to you to create your own unique image.

Handbags

A roomy handbag, shoulder bag, or chic tote should have enough space to hold all your essentials and then some, like a small laptop or tablet. Choose options with multiple pockets and dividers for easy organization. Some have built-in card slots and a zippered pouch, so you can leave the wallet at home. At first blush, a backpack may appear too casual in a professional setting, but one made of leather with a structured silhouette will fit right in.

6 BRANDS OFFERING FORMAL WORK DRESSES

When envisioning a room full of co-workers in business-formal attire, it’s easy to imagine an ocean of all-black outfits. However, myriad fabrics, colors, and designs are available to enliven professional looks. Designer brands create exquisite, work-appropriate dresses with a mastery of materials and form, so it’s easy to find a suitable dress for projecting confidence. 

Discover these six designers that create stunning, office-approved dresses:

Tory Burch

Tory Burch offers an array of ready-to-wear clothes that are both elegant and eye-catching, as exemplified by the Belted Carousel-Print Silk Shirtdress. This silk dress features a bold print that exudes confidence, while the pointed collars exhibit executive-worthy formality. The vibrant pattern needs little else to make a statement, so pair it with simple pave stud earrings, a thin bracelet, and unassuming footwear.

A.L.C.

This L.A.-based brand puts a twist on understated silhouettes with exceptional fabric choices and striking details. Every A.L.C. stays true to its mission of empowering women to look and feel their best. 

Misook

Misook is celebrated for top-of-the-line knitwear. The label passionately crafts garments that provide sophisticated and comfortable choices for any professional. This soft cable-knit dress features a ribbed mock neckline and cuffs in a beautifully rich “Italian clay” color. The simplicity of this piece leaves ample room for making bold styling choices, such as wearing earrings and rings that really shine.

Donna Karan

Donna Karan’s dress collection is perfect for a formal dress code. Even the softest knit fabrics have structure and sophistication. The collection features inspired color-block prints and other cool details.

Diane von Furstenberg

Bright tones and bold patterns permeate the Diane von Furstenberg collection of head-turning looks. The label’s signature wrap dresses are famed for their femininity and have evolved over the decades to include updated details, such as sweet puff and blouson sleeves, tiered skirts, and ruffled hems.

Vince

Fans of clean design adore Vince, and it’s no surprise why. The brand relies on expert cuts and rich colors to create a style best described as standout minimalism. The label’s dresses allow for a wide range of styling possibilities, to include pairing them with heels, flats, and even Oxfords and sneakers.

STAY SMART AND STYLISH ON THE JOB

First impressions count, and a wardrobe helps you put your best foot forward. Neiman Marcus has everything you need to assemble confidence-boosting outfits for meetings, conferences, interviews, and more. Looking to expand your office wardrobe beyond dresses? Our selection of tailored suiting offers the best business-professional attire, as does our selection of accessories and jewelry.

For more inspiration, explore the Neiman Marcus editorial archive, where we offer insight on using your wardrobe to its full potential. Learn about cocktail attire, how to wear a black dress, tips for dressing for a wedding, and more. Or, book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor for personalized styling advice.