Back to work styling

The world of work has seen significant changes over the past four years. The majority of companies now operate a hybrid working model, with just 30 per cent of the work force being based fully on site today, compared with 57 per cent pre-pandemic. As a result, informal and casual dressing in the workplace is far more acceptable than ever before. Even businesses in the City are relaxing their dress codes, a trend that was just bubbling under the surface in the years before 2020.

That said, the overarching trend in menswear for 2024 is the return of smart dressing, with shirts and ties, double-breasted jackets and – err – tailored shorts taking over the runways. Whatever your personal style and work setup, the shift in workplace attire means there is increased freedom, flexibility and creativity in how you dress, whether you go for jeans and trainers or tailored pieces.

So, if you want to refresh your working wardrobe for 2024, now’s the time to do so, especially if you’re returning to the office post-February half term and wanting to make an impression. Here are our key pieces for back-to-work styling.

The white shirt

Whatever your personal style and the dress code of your workplace, it’s always worth investing in a new white shirt. After all, a good-quality white shirt – such as Thomas Pink’s Tailored Fit Formal Plain Poplin Shirt – will be your go-to for any number of events and occasions. The White Classic Fit Formal Cotton Basketweave Shirt is another wallet-friendly option that ticks the 9-5 box, as well as being suitable for weddings or even wearing unbuttoned at the weekend. With a range of different fits to choose from – and even regular or long-sleeve options – it’s almost like buying a tailor-made shirt.

Colour

A white shirt is a wardrobe staple, but don’t shy away from introducing a bit of colour this year – especially if you’ve enjoyed some winter sun over half term and want to show off your tan. Pink is our namesake, and our signature shirt is the Coral Pink Tailored Fit Formal Superior Solid Plain Shirt. It’s a rather bold shade but surprisingly flattering and versatile, and the Italian woven poplin fabric is strong and durable, with a soft, lustrous feel. A softer hue is the preppy Pale Pink Slim Fit Smart Casual Weekend Oxford Shirt. Both will definitely make you want to keep your camera switched on during your next Zoom call.

Pattern

Keep your work wardrobe looking fresh by introducing contemporary stripes and checks. Thomas Pink’s eclectic and comprehensive collection of stripes ranges from subtle (Blue & White Tailored Fit Formal Fine Stripe Shirt) to all-out 1980s exuberance (Blue & White Tailored Fit Formal New England Stripe Shirt). The same goes for check shirts, which come in barely perceptible patterns (Pale Blue & White Slim Fit Formal Prince of Wales Check Shirt) to boxy ginghams and lumberjack- style loud checks (Navy Blue & Blue Slim Fit Smart Casual Brushed Twill Check Shirt). It doesn’t matter if the look is on the casual side and, for a preppy stylish feel, you could always play with adding a solid colour or patterned tie.

Tailoring

A blazer is one of those magic items that instantly takes your outfit up a notch. Whether thrown over smart trousers and a shirt or jeans and a T-shirt, it adds an elegant yet contemporary edge with aplomb. Choose a Thomas Pink Unstructured Jacket, available in a variety of neutral colours – navy, grey, blue, khaki or brown – to serve as the optimum finishing touch to any outfit. The “unstructured” silhouette is a hangover from the pandemic, when the dial shifted towards looser, slightly oversized styles, but the unlined construction simply means a more comfortable and versatile fit. A true investment piece that works just as well on the weekend as it does in the office.

Bags for life

Not so long ago, choices for men in the accessories department were few and far between. But now on the morning commute we are far more accustomed to seeing men with bags of all shapes and sizes, whether it’s a robust backpack, a contemporary briefcase or even a trendy bum bag worn with swagger à la A$AP Rocky. So, treat yourself to a new 9-5 bag to put a swing in your step and shake up your wardrobe. In 2023, Thomas Pink collaborated with B Corp-certified British bag manufacturer Troubadour on a curated edit of workwear bags. These include a backpack, briefcase, a duffle bag and a caboodle crossbody. The designs are sleek and minimalist in black with a subtle pink logo, and the larger items come with a handy shirt bag and removable straps. Chic, modern and effortless to wear, whether you’re travelling by foot, bicycle, train or tube.