How to stay fashionable at work this Autumn/Winter

Staying fashionable in the office doesn’t have to mean sacrificing professionalism.

With fashion houses, style experts, and glossy magazines unveiling the must-wear trends for autumn/winter 2025-26, there’s plenty of inspiration to refresh your work wardrobe. From bold outerwear to playful textures, this season strikes a balance between sophistication and flair – perfect for Malta’s office scene, where mild winters call for smart layering and thoughtful choices.

For men: Sharp, stylish, and season-proof

1. The soft suit with a twist
Forget stiff tailoring. This season’s suit comes in unexpected textures like velvet or subtle checks, often paired with pastel shirts – yes, even pink is trending. In Malta’s softer winter light, a blush-toned shirt under a classic navy or charcoal suit adds a fresh, confident touch.

2. Luxe outerwear, office edition
The big winner on men’s runways? The statement coat. From white structured overcoats to pieces with faux-fur trims, outerwear is being elevated to boardroom status. Throw one over a fine knit and tailored trousers, and you’re instantly polished – even if the outfit beneath is simple.

3. Workwear meets street
Quilted jackets and down shells are no longer just weekend gear. Layer them neatly over a shirt or turtleneck, pair with dark denim or slim trousers, and you’ve nailed “casual-but-credible.” Clean trainers or leather boots keep it smart enough for meetings.

4. The power of separates
Gone are the days of the perfectly matched suit. Mismatching blazers and trousers – say, grey jacket with navy trousers – creates an effortless yet professional edge. A fine roll-neck layered underneath completes the look and keeps you warm on crisp mornings.

5. Elegant minimalism
Sometimes less really is more. Monochrome palettes in soft greys, beiges, or browns, paired with a sharp shirt and slim trousers, show quiet authority. The trick is in the detail: Quality fabrics, a good watch, and polished shoes.

For women: Power dressing with personality

1. The blazer + midi skirt combo
Strong shoulders aren’t going anywhere. A tailored blazer, perhaps in a wool blend or even velvet, worn over a pencil or A-line midi skirt, exudes confidence. Pair with ankle boots for an office look that feels both commanding and chic.

2. Dresses with drama (but still professional)
A sheath or wrap dress in a neutral tone becomes instantly autumn-ready with the addition of an oversized trench or a faux-fur-trim coat. Heels or knee-high boots finish the look, taking you seamlessly from desk to dinner.

3. Trousers + statement top
This season is all about detail – think blouses with puff sleeves, soft ruffles, or dramatic collars. Ground them with sleek tailored trousers, whether slim or wide-leg, and you’ve got a look that balances playfulness with polish.

4. The texture play
Velvet, silk, leather, and knitwear are all making waves. The trick is to mix, not overload. A satin blouse with a leather skirt, or a knit cardigan over wide-leg trousers, adds richness to your outfit without veering into fashion-week excess.

5. Neutral base, colour pop
Build your outfit around timeless neutrals like camel, grey, or navy, then add a pop of this season’s trend colour – pale pink, soft lilac, or a pastel scarf or bag. It’s the easiest way to stay on-trend without alarming HR.

By borrowing runway cues and translating them into wearable looks, you can walk into the boardroom feeling both fashionable and professional. After all, style is just another way of saying you mean business.