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31 Pieces That’ll Take You From The Office, To Happy Hour, To A First Date And Look Good Through It All

Here’s how to go from boss babe to ready to mingle in an instant.

Posted on Jun 12, 2026

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by Flavia C Nunez BuzzFeed Contributor

I am a contributor and former fashion editor with over a decade of experience creating fashion content, previously leading the fashion department at award-winning magazine Real Simple, where I expanded and deepened audience through trend forecasting, creative storytelling, and inclusiveness.

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

1. A tailored linen vest top perfect for when you have the biggest work presentation (or interview) and there's just no way a celebratory outing doesn't happen once it's clock-out time because, yes, you prepared to another level for it, but there's no denying the extra boost of confidence you'll feel once you put this piece on. 

J.Crew

Promising reviews: "I bought this for my daughter, who is starting her career. It fit well, true to size. I had bought a similar J. Crew vest in an earlier collection that I thought fit small around the waist, and that was not the case with this one. The fabric and construction are very nice, as expected, and I love the trendy style." —Lampsa

"Versatile, complimentary, well-made top. Can dress it up or down." —anonymous

Get it from J.Crew for $84.50 (originally $138; available in sizes 00–24 and three colors).

2. A pair of very-of-the-moment baggy barrel jeans with a semi-subtle print that will bring an unexpected twist to your work wardrobe. You'll inevitably become the most popular fashionista in the office, to such an extent that everyone will want to sit with you during lunch and ask what your plans are later. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I was a little unsure about ordering these pants since I’m in my 70s, and I wasn’t sure if I’d look good in them. I’m so glad I went for it! I absolutely love them, and with a more modest top, they work perfectly for me. It’s always a treat when young people compliment them. I feel confident wearing them." —Chip

Get it from Amazon for $35.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and 13 colors/prints).

3. A ruffled-tier dress that seems a little too dressy for on-duty hours, but can be tamed down if you pair it with a basic black blazer (just make sure it's linen, with these temps, we need a breathable fabric if we're layering up) and classic loafers, instead of heels.

Bloomchic

Get it from Bloomchic for $52.90 (available in sizes M–6X).

4. A sleek lace-hem slip skirt to add a romantic (and trendy) touch to your otherwise all-black daily uniform. It's pieces like these with little details, like the lace hem, that'll upgrade your workwear capsule wardrobe into a for-any-occasion one. 

Gap Factory

Promising review: "Really cute, elegant! Is perfect." —Maria F

Get it from Gap Factory for $23.97 (originally $69.99; available in sizes S–XXL).

5. A floral single-button blazer because, whether they are real or not, blooms make everything better, including making your Sunday scaries a little more bearable.

Nordstrom

Get it from Nordstrom for $139 (available in sizes 14–24, petite and regular sizes).

6. An adorable mini bucket handbag that'll fit everything you need to and from the office. But if your commute requires you to become a bag person, then this cutie is small enough to store in your desk for when spontaneous plans emerge.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Super cute small vegan bag! Great price. The crossbody strap is well-made and sturdy. The hardware is great quality, as well. I bought the beige-cream color, and it works well with everything, even white jeans. The size is perfect, it holds a lot, isn’t too small at all." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in five colors).

7. A cute tie strap corset top that feels conservative for professional settings (there's nothing a cardi can't do if you still need more coverage), but also very flirty for that date you finally landed with your current crush. 

Torrid

Promising review: "I purchased this top a month ago to wear with my high-wasted jeans and pants. I love the V in the front, which is not too low, cute, and the ties. I do, however, have to wear a jacket over it for work and can wear it with one when I go out with the girls." —Monet27

Get it from Torrid for $11.99+ (originally $35.90; available in sizes M–6X and three colors).

8. A sharp two-piece set made to be worn every single summer Friday in your foreseeable future. I mean, you could wear the vest top every day of the week if you wanted to, but let's be realistic about the shorts (which, IMO, are long enough to be office appropriate), Fridays and weekends are written all over them.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Beautiful style and color. Very classy. The fabric is sort of like a gabardine, which is a material used in suits, so it’s professional looking." —janetc

Get it from Amazon for $50.99 (available in sizes S–XL and 13 colors/prints).

9. Or an oversize two-piece suit set that comes with pants instead, and so you don't have to even think about what to wear when getting ready in the morning. Wear a cami under the vest during the day, and then right before hitting HH, sneak into the restroom to take the layer off and wear the vest as a deep V-neckline top. Who's bringing sexy back now, JT!?

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This is a solid purchase. Professional, good-quality material. I am impressed with how nicely made it looks. The jacket is lined and contains shoulder pads — small pads, not extremely boxy, making it look classy and professional. The pants are wide-legged and not lined. Both pieces look nicely put together with a tank underneath, or can be worn separately as well. The pants are long, I am 5'6", and they were dragging slightly. Goes beautifully with a pair of stilettos. Yes, would recommend, and may consider purchasing more colors 😀." —pfr88

Get it from Amazon for $46.17+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 14 colors).

10. A smocked maxi dress that'll show your curves, but in a modest and non-restrictive way, so you can feel comfortable all day long and then indulge when you finally make it to that restaurant you've been wanting to go to for ages. 

Banana Republic Factory

Get it from Banana Republic Factory for $84 (originally $140; available in sizes 0–18, petite and tall fits, and four colors/prints).

11. A soft pencil skirt made from modal, a fabric that has some weight to it but is still very breathable and, best yet, wrinkle-resistant! You may be sitting in front of a desk from 9–5, but once your watch turns 5:01, there won't be a wrinkle in sight. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Love the color and feel of this skirt. It’s very soft and stretchy. It’s wrinkle resistant, not see-through, and a great value for the money! I love wearing it to work!" —Susie Larsen

Get it from Amazon for $26.98+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 15 colors).

12. A versatile slingback pump that, according to reviewers, is super comfy (thank the designers for that cushioned footbed!) and will dress up any 'fit — that's the beauty of a good neutral elongating heel. 

Nordstrom Rack

Promising review: "Best most comfortable sling back I’ve ever owned! I have received over 3K likes on social media and even more compliments while out!!! Highly recommend! 10/10." —versatile/chic

Get it from Nordstrom Rack for $49.97 (originally $79; available in sizes 5–11 and 14 colors).

13. A sleeveless wrap top screaming "sexy boss," respectfully, of course, and that'll bring your office attire from employee of the year to CEO status. Seriously, it's all in the details in this one, like the wide shoulders (so you can wear your comfiest and most supportive bra), the asymmetrical hemline, and the contrasting buckle, that'll level you up.

Lane Bryant

Get it from Lane Bryant for $29.97 (originally $49.95; available in sizes 10/12–26/28).

14. A pair of pleated linen Bermudas, because, as I previously mentioned, shorts can be office-appropriate if done right — in this case, a longer hem with beautifully placed pleats in a flowy silhouette does the trick.

Boden

Promising review: "These are great shorts. I bought a pair in black first and was so impressed I had to have a second pair! The material is good quality linen, which means the shorts hang well, including the front pleats. Much more versatile to wear than some shorts, as they almost look like a skirt from the front. I'm just over 5 feet tall, and these hang just above my knees. Great overall fit. They'll get plenty of wear this summer." —Gaynor

Get it from Boden for $140 (available in sizes 2–20/22 and three colors).

15. A crisp A-line dress that'll feel as if you're wearing your typical shirtdress, but let me tell you, it looks intentionally unique and very functional because it has what we love the most about dresses, aka pockets!

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This dress is absolutely gorgeous! The fit is so great and hugs in all the right places while still being super comfortable. The material feels high-quality, and I got so many compliments while wearing it. Definitely one of those dresses that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Highly recommend!" —mimi05

Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 13 colors).

16. A pair of linen wide-leg pants so you can keep the comfy vibes of the weekend going for the rest of the week while looking put together and fresh. 

Anthropologie

Promising reviews: "These pants are amazing! They fit so nicely and come in so many different styles. Can’t have too many!" —RobynF

"These pants are perfect. The size and leg are great. Material is lightweight but not see-through. Can be worn casual or dress up." —erin36

Get it from Anthropologie for $138 (available in sizes 23–34, and 16–26 plus, petite and tall fits, and five colors/prints).

17. A chunky beaded choker necklace because if you are anything like me, we don't really swap out earrings and bracelets on the regular but when it comes to other accessories we like to experiment and make grand statements.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Very fashionable necklace. I am very happy with this necklace. It goes perfectly with almost all my dresses and tops. It is high quality and doesn’t feel overly chunky." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (available in 18 colors).

18. A ribbed tube top you should definitely layer up with a tailored jacket for when you're on duty, but then take that sucker off and see how your coworkers get whiplash when you stroll down the hall toward the exit. 

Abercrombie & Fitch

Promising reviews: "Perfect tub top for a night out. It is heavy but shouldn’t be too hot for the summer." —LC

"Perfect date night top! Very comfortable and have no issue with it falling down." —Kgirschick

Get it from Abercrombie & Fitch for $65 (available in sizes XXS–XL and four colors).

19. A mesh midi skirt in a minimal silhouette but with maximum eye-catch potential — I mean, how can it not? with all those bold prints, which is exactly how you do understated but still make people stare.

Banana Republic

Get it from Banana Republic for $140 (available in sizes XXS–XXL, petite fits, and three prints).

20. An otherwise-classy pleated trouser but in the trendiest of shapes — that's right, the barrel leg. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I purchased for a two-week trip, limiting my clothing/accessories choices to one carry-on. These pants were amazing. Super comfortable, dressed them up and down. Decided to wear them home for the six-hour flight. Not a wrinkle." —wsf

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 10 colors).

21. An embroidered button-front dress that'll become your one-and-done go-to look and still be considered a master in the art of effortless glamour — what a title to get in under 30 seconds.

Gap

Promising review: "I'd been eyeing this dress for a while and finally got the red one! It's beautiful! Well-made, cotton, lined, and has pockets!! I was worried about the fit in the chest, but it's perfect and has a bit of stretch. It fits better than expected and really complements my curves." —Jessica H

Get it from Gap for $148 (available in sizes XXS–XXL, petite and tall fits, and three colors).

22. A square-toe ballet flat because you don't have to wear uncomfortable and unwalkable shoes, heels or not, anywhere.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These are very cute and stylish cowhide shoes that immediately stand out. The cowhide pattern gives them a unique, trendy look while still feeling classic and easy to style. The square toe adds a modern touch, and the lace-up detail elevates them beyond a basic flat.

"They are comfortable right out of the box with no break-in needed. The material feels soft and flexible, and the fit is true to size. They sit nicely on the foot without rubbing or pinching, and the sole provides enough support for everyday wear, whether you are running errands, going out to brunch, or dressing them up for work.

"Overall, these flats are a great mix of fashion and comfort. If you are looking for a statement shoe that is still wearable and practical, these cowhide flats are a great choice and a fun addition to any wardrobe." —C. S. Valdez

Get it from Amazon for $26.81+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 12 colors/prints).

23. An off-the-shoulder blouse you'll be able to leave over your shoulders while you're hunched over your keyboard, then pull down once the classic margarita makes it into your hands on Taco Tuesdays.

Loft

Get it from Loft for $41.97 (originally $69.95; available in sizes XXS–XXL, and petite fits).

24. A voluminous balloon trouser because balloon pants are everywhere at the moment, and you're not just a boss babe, you're a chic boss babe who stays current and knows how to bring a street style into the workplace and beyond without looking too trendy. 

Eloquii

Promising review: "My new fave pants. I’ve already worn them twice in one week. Once out to a bar and once to work. So cute and chic." —Loreal S

Get it from Eloquii for $145 (available in sizes 00–4XL, three inseams, and nine colors).

25. A fun bubble maxi skirt, so you can include a little variety in your skirt repertoire. It's cool, it's bubbly, and it'll get you tons of compliments from everyone and their mom. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "After wearing this bubble-skirted, sleeveless white dress from Amazon last summer, I quickly looked for skirts, knowing they would be the next big skirt trend. The brand Elleven is the best, I feel, because of its longer length, internal lining and structure, fitted waist, and generous pair of lined pockets. The material is a blend that, once straightened from transportation, you can actually sleep in and go to work. Without saying, it travels beyond expectation. People comment on its trendy style every time I go out. I have all colors now except beige. It washes and dries easily. Stains hardly ever. The price is worth it. If you're looking for a new style this winter, give it a try." —Linda A Shields

Get it from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 15 colors).

26. A cap-sleeve midi dress for days when your schedule requires a breezy and chill outfit with a side of business, meaning there's nothing major happening at work, but after, is a completely different story.

Target

Promising review: "The dress fit is amazing. It’s fitted through the shoulders and chest and flows away from the body. If you don’t have an hourglass figure, this will give you one. I paid full price, and it was worth it IMO." —Ballersboo

Get it from Target for $21 (originally $35; available in sizes 16–30).

27. A statement leather belt, since sometimes the day calls for a traditional outfit, like black trousers and a white shirt combo, but that doesn't mean we neglect the accessories, and a belt like this one certainly makes things way more interesting. 

Quince

Promising review: "I have gotten so many compliments on this belt in the few times I have worn it. It is gorgeous and well-made. Elevates every outfit into a polished look." —Amanda B.

Get it from Quince for $58 (available in sizes XS–XL and three colors).

28. A tie waist blouse, because not all collared shirts have to be a button-up; sometimes they could be a little more flirty and laid back, but still look like they belong on the executive floor. 

Ann Taylor

Promising review: "Love this linen side tie blouse, but take note that it runs big. I normally wear SMALL, but it’s huge. I’m reordering and hoping the XS fits. The color is such a beautiful, vibrant orange. Seems to steam well and the wrinkles will reappear over time." —TwinsAndOne

Get it from Ann Taylor for $59.62 (originally $79.50; available in sizes XXS–XXL, petite fits, and five colors).

29. A polished denim midi skirt so you can still do the denim-on-denim look without having to wear jeans to work, not that I'm against it. And so you can show some leg during that hot date you have right after.

Mango

Get it from Mango for $69.99 (available in sizes XS–XL).

30. A 100% cotton midi dress you'll be able to wear year-round thanks to its breathability. To the office, wear it with a blazer and loafers. On a date, kitten heels, and a clutch are your besties. And to happy hour, there's no way a pair of sneakers and a baseball cap won't make you look like the coolest person at the bar. 

Madewell

Promising review: "This dress is incredibly cute. The fabric is fantastic and not at all see-through. It has pockets and a great weight. I highly recommend this dress." —Annimal

Get it from Madewell for $158 (available in sizes 00–16 and striped navy).

31. A basic crewneck bodysuit, because when in doubt, wearing a tee that won't untuck is the secret weapon. This smooth option will go with every single bottom you own, and it's so comfy, I bet you'll be getting many more right after you try it on. 

Skims

Promising review: "This bodysuit's color is as exquisite as the Fits Everybody T-shirt I purchased for my other outfit I needed for an important weekend for my husband’s work event. The fit was so wonderful, and the bodysuit made my outfit!" —Kelli R.

Get it from Skims for $64 (available in sizes XXS–4X and brown).

Still looking for the perfect wardrobe update for *y-o-u*? Try these:

* Plus-Size Reviewers Swear By These 27 Summer Fashion Pieces Under $100

* Summer Fashion Pieces For Anyone Who Wants To Look Cute But Doesn’t Want To Sacrifice Comfort

* Don’t Have Time To Shop For Summer Clothing? Voila! We Found 31 Pieces For You

* Loungewear Pieces You Wouldn’t Mind Having To Answer The Door In

Plus, basics, tops, accessories, and finds from Bloomchic, Free People, J.Crew, Old Navy, and Walmart. 

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Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.