How to dress smart for office: From pleated panels to relaxed tailoring, it's about redefining power dressing

Workwear trends: For women, double collars, pleated panels, and sculptural jackets are replacing the old idea of stiff formality (Images: WERQ)

Workwear is having a moment of quiet revolution and it is no longer confined to stiff formality or monotonous corporate codes. This season’s office wardrobes are embracing fluidity, structure, and understated confidence. It’s less about dressing to “fit in” and more about making an impact, without saying a word.

With the rise of hybrid workplaces and a growing focus on self-expression, power dressing is being rewritten in silhouettes that feel both commanding and effortless. The new workwear wardrobe is about personal power dressed in simplicity.

New age styles:

The emphasis this season is on wearability with an edge. Natural fabrics and plant-based blends are not just sustainable but they also keep you comfortable during long workdays, particularly in warmer climates. The charm of soft tailoring lies in its ability to create clean lines without rigidity. Think boot-cut trousers that work as a modern alternative to skinny fits or boxy cuts, and jackets that shape the shoulders while allowing movement.

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At work, soft tailoring, boot-cut pants that elongate, cinched waists that define without restricting, and shoulder-sculpting jackets instantly add posture. Priyanshi Singh, Founder & Creative Director of fashion label WERQ, captures the workwear shift perfectly as she shares, “Investing in good office wear isn’t just about trend — it’s about intention. The right pieces should balance form, function, and personal power. For the Indian climate and body types, we recommend breathable, movement-friendly fabrics like organic cotton twill, plant-based blends, and lighter suiting materials with structure but without stiffness. Cuts that skim the body, not cling or drown it work best.”

Make a statement in silence:

Modern women don’t just want to “fit in” at work—they want pieces that help them take up space. So this season, it's about sharp silhouettes softened by movement, and tailoring that says ‘I lead’ without ever having to say it out loud. When the garment itself carries the confidence, you don’t need to try too hard, the outfit does the talking for you, adds Priyanshi. She says, “Power dressing is being redefined right now with edgy designs. The biggest shift is toward 'quiet impact' with clean lines, purposeful detail, and bold structure that feels effortless. For women, double collars, pleated panels, and sculptural jackets are replacing the old idea of stiff formality. For men, relaxed tailoring with elevated fabric textures is key. Think monochrome suiting, tonal layering, and softer shoulders. To avoid looking too loud at the office, it’s all about balance. Pair one statement element like a corset-belted blazer or a structured pleated dress with clean, minimal accessories. Let the garment carry the confidence.”

Also read | Dressing for office: Go for structured blazers, statement dresses, monochrome looks

For women, the power suit has been re-imagined with clever details like pleated panels on dresses, belted blazers that hint at strength without being overpowering, and jackets with sculptural shoulders that add instant poise. Men’s workwear is moving in a softer direction too, with relaxed fits, tonal layering, and subtle textures like brushed cotton and matte finishes adding depth to neutral palettes.

The trend is not about loud logos or overly complicated looks. Instead, the idea of “quiet impact” emphasises letting tailoring and structure speak for themselves. A simple corset-belted jacket, for instance, paired with minimal jewellery and clean loafers, says far more than any flashy accessory ever could. For men, monochrome suits in earthy tones like sage, charcoal, or sand layered with a sleek tee instead of a traditional shirt, are redefining the boardroom aesthetic.