The dress code in offices is becoming more relaxed nowadays, but sometimes it still feels good to dress smart and appropriately in the workplace. This has led to wearing denim in the workplace being a sticky subject. How should you wear it? Trilogy Stores, premium denim retailers of straight cut jeans for women, provide us with some insight:

Styling the jeans

Is your office super relaxed? If not, or you’re new to wearing denim for work, play it safe with black denim. Worn with a patterned shirt tucked in, black high-waisted jeans can create a more fitted look than black work pants. The high-waist element of the jean can elongate your legs — perfect when matched with your favourite pair of heeled courts. Buy a pair of black jeans with a playful hem to add an edge to your outfit that’s still smart.

Culottes are a very popular choice outside of the office and there’s no reason why you can’t bring the trend to the desk. Black or indigo jean culottes paired with a smart blouse, oversized jacket, and peep-toe flats is one outfit that would look summery yet work-appropriate. Tuck your blouse in to neaten up your outfit and add heels when heading out for after-office drinks. Similarly, in warmer months, don’t feel you have to shy away from cropped leg jeans.

Pair them with loafers and a cami-blouse combination and you’ll be fine. If you feel like adding a pop of colour to your look, but don’t want to go too loud, opt for a pastel palette. Lilac or sky-blue denim can complement a smart shirt well — ideal for keeping it bright and cool when the sun is shining too. And don’t worry about looking too casual in classic blue skinny jeans. With a sleeveless white shirt tucked in and a checked blazer, you can create a fashionable ensemble that’s anything but boring. Slip on your point-toe pumps and begin your commute.

 White jeans are also okay. Often thought of as ‘holiday jeans’, they can be styled so that they’re suitable for work. Worn with a dark or pastel shirt, white denim can be work-appropriate — choose a pair with a slim-leg to create a smart, summer look.

Styling a skirt

A pencil skirt alongside a shirt is the classic style for women in the office. It’s one way to feel feminine without revealing too much and can look uber stylish as part of a power suit.

Why not trade in your black midi garment for a denim skirt? Why not try to experiment with different colours? Similar to when wearing denim jeans, pastel coloured fitted skirts are a fun go-to for the warmer months — tuck in a chiffon blouse and wear with heeled sandals or pointed ankle boots. Or, if you’re feeling more daring, opt for a bold red or green denim skirt and wear with a classic black V-neck to tone it down. Co-ordinate your outfit with a complementing coloured cross-over or tote bag.

 There are obviously numerous ways for you to style denim in the office. Make sure that this dress-code is accepted in your office before you start wearing jeans to work, and if it is, there’s no need to hold back! From stylish indigo culottes to studded pencil skirts, bringing denim to the office can keep you fashionable and well-dressed. Don’t forget to accessorise appropriately too, cross-body bags are a good way to inject some colour into your outfit and a tailored blazer is a perfect staple piece to formalise your wardrobe.