Dramatic flair meets comfort: What’s new in office fashion trends this autumn and winter?

Choosing the right outfit during Malta’s transitional period between summer, autumn and into winter can feel tedious, with weather shifting unpredictably. Adding to the challenge of planning workwear five days a week, staying stylish and comfortable in the office becomes a balancing act.

In keeping with its annual tradition, MaltaCEOs.mt explores fashion trends that have infused office wear for Autumn and Winter 2024/2025.

Although autumn has yet to fully set in (unsurprisingly), MaltaCEOs.mt speaks to established stylists Malcolm Gauci and Robert Agius, who shared their insights into the best office bag, top winter must-haves and common faux pas.

Malcolm is a creative content creator and multi-award-winning fashion stylist who has styled various local influencers such as Love Island host Yazmin Helledie. Meanwhile, Robert is a fashion and hair stylist as well as a model, who styled iconic local celebrities including Ira Losco.  

From office to evening drinks: Elevating looks for different contexts

Office wear is no longer just about looking polished behind a desk. With a rise in after-work networking events between October and November, choosing versatile outfits that effortlessly transition from day to night can be a game-changer. These adaptable pieces not only save time but make it easy to switch seamlessly from formal meetings to evening gatherings.

Robert says that clothing items like long, big-shouldered coats or blazers are “absolutely essential,” this season as they transition smoothly from the office to evening drinks.

Furthermore, he believes that classic Chelsea boots are key for both men and women in a professional office setting. “They offer the perfect balance of style and comfort, especially on rainy days.”

For those who are more adventurous in their fashion choices, he recommends a leopard print pair to add a bold touch.

Malcolm also suggests investing in blazers as a versatile option to transition between a formal and smart-casual setting.

Go-to transitional pieces for Malcolm would be a classic white shirt, a pair of jeans and a knit sweater/cardigan for layering.

Are heels going out of style? Unlikely

Opting for style and comfort is not only a trend that is being applied in clothing but also when it comes to footwear. With many incorporating trendy sneakers like the adidas sambas or a classic converse, are heels going out of style?

The stylists tell MaltaCEOs that no, or at least according to Malcolm, “not necessarily.”

He acknowledges that while heels are no longer the go-to for many office workers, they aren’t necessarily out of style. However, he notes that trends are leaning towards a more practical, comfort-focused approach, with many options that still look stylish and polished.

“My preferred pair of shoes for the office would be loafers – comfortable and timeless,” he says.

On the other hand, Robert remarks that heels will likely never go out of style in the office, however, this winter kitten heels will stand out for many.

Nonetheless he comments that while they offer comfort, they aren’t everyone’s favourite.

“Additionally, we can expect to see Mary Jane flats, mules, clogs, and riding boots making a strong appearance this season,” he continues.

Choosing the perfect office bag: XXL, practical and stylish

Turning the focus to accessories, the stylists identified the ideal office bag, emphasising standout characteristics being big to accommodate all items and while also being practical, luxurious, and stylish.  

Malcolm points out that the XXL shoulder bag was a standout piece on many runways this season, making it the ideal office bag. This, he adds, is ideal for people who like to carry everything they need.

“It’s incredibly stylish and exudes a luxe feel,” he states.

Meanwhile, Robert recommends a large faux leather tote as, not only accommodates all work essentials but also looks stylish.

To elevate the look, he recommends pairing it with a smaller crossbody bag to create a fashionable two-bag look, “which I’ve always loved.”

A fashion no-no: Open-toe shoes and skinny jeans

MaltaCEOs.mt also asks the stylists what they would avoid wearing at the office.

“Open-toe shoes!” Robert replies. He shares that while personally he is not a fan, he does not see open-toe shoes to be suitable for the office and that they “come across as too casual” for a professional environment.

Meanwhile Malcolm suggests eliminating skinny jeans.

“The shift towards relaxed silhouettes is leaving skinny jeans on the back burner. Straight-leg, bootcut, and wide-leg jeans are taking centre stage, offering a more modern, comfortable fit,” he says.

‘It’s the weekend, what will I wear?’

A great outfit can spark a sense of confidence, creating a cycle of positivity that affects how you carry yourself and how others perceive you. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it boosts self-assurance and can empower you to face the day’s challenges.

Now that Malcolm and Robert have shared their insights into office wear, MaltaCEOs.mt asks a final question about their winter must-haves and trends that can be worn outside the office.

Malcolm kicks off by sharing that this autumn and winter season combine dramatic flair with comfort, creating a wardrobe that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

“Designers are embracing dark romanticism, using Gothic-inspired velvet and lace with Victorian details to bring moody elegance into everyday looks,” he continues.

Similarly, Robert remarks that people can expect to see a strong focus on statement, extravagant collars and bold oversized shoulders in outerwear.

“The standout features will undoubtedly be a hit, appealing to a wide range of tastes and adding a touch of drama to any wardrobe,” Robert says.

Stressing this point, Malcolm remarks that outerwear takes centre stage with exaggerated, oversized coats in faux fur and leather, ranging from neutral to rich jewel tones for both bold and classic styles.

During these  two seasons sustainability remains crucial, according to Malcolm, as brands focus on recycled materials and layered, durable designs.

“This season fuses nostalgia with a forward-looking longevity in fashion,” he adds.

When it comes to autumn and winter must-haves, Malcolm recommends styling retro-inspired knitwear like cozy-cardigans, and oversized suits for “a polished yet relaxed vibe”, along with wide belts to cinch and define and bold 80s-inspired earrings “that instantly elevate any look.”