These 12 Editor-Approved Spring Work Outfits Clock Overtime

Temperatures are finally on the rise, and as a fashion editor, I'm on a mission to incorporate the best spring work outfits into my closet. With busy days running around to see the latest spring fashion trends, I'm striving to build a workwear wardrobe that embodies ease and a stress-free morning, no matter what the weather holds. I've found that layering lightweight pieces, like the best tank tops and cashmere sweaters, is the most effective way to put my fashion-related stress to rest.

Since my Marie Claire office dress code requires a certain level of sophistication, I gravitate towards thin yet substantial pieces that feel elevated. Button-down tops, tailored blazers, and trench coats are just a few examples of buildable essentials that carry me through each spring season, and they will do the same for my spring work outfits in 2024.

Versatility is also a key factor when styling outfits that capture the excitement of the spring street style trends. Fashion experts' secret is that they often invest in styles you can mix and match on repeat. Practicality never goes out of style.

To help your warm weather work outfit blossom, Marie Claire curated an inspiration board of 12 spring work outfits that incorporate the must-haves, like the best work sneakers (that aren't just for commuting), work bags that can do it all, and the latest work-appropriate denim trends that will win you best dressed at the office. 

Tailored Neutrals

Warmer months are perfect for experimenting with light neutral tones, like cream and beige. Combine the two for a polished semi-monochromatic look, and add in some tailoring to elevate your spring work outfit to quiet luxury-esque heights. To turn up the volume, pair your neutral pieces with contrasting accessories in some of the boldest spring color trends, like a bright apricot kitten heel or a slate grey laptop bag that will easily hold your computer and an extra pair of shoes.

Layering for Sweater Weather

This winter, fashion editors layered their sweaters over coats, but as the experts transition into spring, we can still apply that approach to win the wearing versus styling debate—we'll just be throwing our cozy knits over our white T-shirts instead. Chilly mornings mean you'll likely leave the house with a sweater on, but a sweater-styled over-the-shoulder is the if you know, you know outfit look to embrace as temperatures rise throughout the day. Add tailored trousers, kitten-heeled boots, and your favorite pair of cat-eyed sunglasses for the perfect spring work outfit formula to wear on repeat.

Spring-to-Summer Transition

White dresses are high on everyone's list for 2024; stick with a low-key daytime version of the trend to make it work-appropriate and not overly bridal. Opt for an interesting neckline, a flowy shape or a drop-waist, and a breathable fabric, like a linen dress, which will keep you cool during balmy spring days. Because linen is so suitable for high temperatures, you can easily transition this piece into your summer work outfit rotation.

Trench Coats for Rainy Days

Spring is the season of inevitable rain showers, so plan to bring your handy umbrella and keep a durable trench coat close on damp days. Opt for a double-breasted style with details like front ties for a cinched-waist look and side pockets to store all your small essentials.

The Power Suit

Nothing says business more than an oversized blazer paired with a crisp button-down top and floor-grazing trousers. The play on proportions demonstrates a strong sartorial stance that will boost confidence in the boardroom.

Easy, Breezy, Comfortable

As a fashion editor, I can confidently say that everyone needs at least one loosely structured maxi skirt in their spring wardrobe. Whether you’re bouncing from one meeting to the next or rushing to a work lunch, the relaxed fit of an airy skirt will allow you to operate easily on the go. If your office default is pants, and you're wondering how to style a skirt, try it with a sleeveless turtleneck, dainty kitten heels, and a bold pair of chunky hoop earrings for that perfect '90s vibe.

Office-Appropriate Shorts

Despite what some might say, wearing shorts to the office doesn't have to be a fashion faux pas; it really depends on the type of shorts you choose and being mindful of their length (the fingertip test usually applies in the workplace). In this case, consider a pair of Bermuda shorts. They're long enough to meet the demands of an office dress code but short enough to keep cool on sunny spring days. Pair a Bermuda short style with cute ballet flats and a classic button-down to keep your outfit from falling into casual Friday territory.

Breaking Seasonal Rules

Forget the white before Memorial Day and white after Labor Day rule for your spring work outfits. Get ahead of the seasonal curve with a chic matching set like a buttoned waistcoat and a coordinating skirt. There are endless options, but we love a tailored vest and a high-waisted skirt. They’ll work flawlessly together but can also be worn separately. To shake things up, throw on a pair of embellished shoes or mesh flats in a punchy color, like red.

Grown-Up Prep Style

Put a grown-up spin on the quintessential schoolgirl outfit inspired by the Miu Miu runways and this street-style look. If a pleated mini skirt at the office is a hard no, try a midi pencil skirt outfit instead. Then, once again, delve into the art of layering with a button-down, a sweater or a cardigan, and a slightly boxy collared jacket. 

The Fullproof Outfit Formula

The one work outfit formula I will proudly wear over and over again this spring is a structured blazer, a ribbed tank, straight-leg (slightly cropped) jeans, and Mary Janes. My ideal mode of dressing involves pieces that don’t require overthinking, and this blueprint offers a guaranteed way to master an uncomplicated spring work outfit.

A Pop of Pink

It’s no secret that shades of pink, mostly the hot pink trend, ruled the ready-to-wear runways last year thanks to Barbie and the ongoing popularity of the girlhood aesthetic trend. This spring, designers like Sandy Liang, Chanel, and Comme des Garçons are using the youthful hue in shades of bubblegum, cherry blossom, and blush in place of an intense all-pink color palette. It's also a great warmer weather color to incorporate into your spring work outfits. A pink blazer over a white dress is a nice way to play into the color without going full-on Barbiecore.

From Day to Night

If you’re a busy bee whose social calendar always involves post-work drinks and dinners, you’ll need an outfit that seamlessly takes you from day to night. A neutral dress with dark accents will do the trick. In the office, wear this piece with comfortable flat shoes, and swap out a slingback or peep toe heel (both of which are big spring 2024 shoe trends) as you make your way into the evening. A sleek black tote or your favorite roomy designer handbag is a great accessory that's not afraid to work the overtime shift.