Classic Corporate

Corporate wear for women

Some offices still mean it when they say corporate. This is the formal end of Forcast workwear: structured suiting, tailored trousers, pencil skirts, fitted dresses and the shirts and shells to go under them, in sizes 4 to 18. It is what to wear for law, finance, client meetings and the boardroom.

What a corporate wardrobe needs

Start with a black or navy suit. A single-breasted jacket like the Lauren Single Breasted Jacket with its straight pant is the foundation, and the matching pencil skirt follows if your office leans formal. Add a second blazer in a different cut, such as the Nikki Double Breasted Blazer, so the same trousers work twice. A sleeved work dress in ponte covers the days you do not want to think about it.

How to wear it

Tucked, not loose. A collared shirt or satin shell tucked into high-waist work pants or a pencil skirt keeps the line clean, and a fitted top under a structured blazer keeps the shoulders sharp. Closed-toe heels or a pointed flat finish it. Keep jewellery fine and the belt slim, and let the tailoring do the talking.

Pieces that leave the office

A double-breasted blazer over a satin cami is dinner-ready. A pencil skirt with a knit is a weekend outfit. Tailored culottes with a tee and flats are Saturday. Buy the suit in a colour you will wear on repeat and every piece earns its place.

How to shop it

• Build from a suit set, then buy the second blazer separately.
• Keep two or three shirts and blouses in rotation so one is always pressed.
• Add a work dress for the mornings you are short on time.

Sizes run 4 to 18. Because jackets, pants and skirts are sold separately, you can size each one to your own proportions; the size guide has the measurements.