I feel I am affected by a case of trend stubbornness: I simply do not like every of the workplace put on that’s “in.” Since coming again to work, I’ve seen that the way in which I costume has diverged fairly a bit from the opposite ladies in my workplace. I a lot want the tailor-made kinds of yore to the unstructured sweaters, ruffles and poufy sleeves which can be in every single place. Are there methods to replace my weekday uniform that do not contain giving up my blazers, slim-fitting energy attire and thin pants? — Anna, Branford, Conn.

The excellent news is that we’re in a post-trend world, the place just about something goes: not only for denim, the place skinny/boyfriend/pale/darkish/flared denims are all obtainable always, but in addition for many years (’60s ! ’70s! ’80s! ’90s!) and hemlines. That are up, down and in every single place in between.

The large sweaters, ruffly blouses and oversize jackets you might be seeing principally the general public expressions of the consolation, Zoom and nap dressing that grew to become widespread throughout the pandemic. It is a form of bridge dressing as we transfer from residence again to the office.

However odds are the tailor-made blazer and swimsuit are about to make a comeback, judging from the latest Balenciaga present held on the New York Inventory Alternate, which was heavy on the white collar-wear. To not point out the number of jackets seen even on the crimson carpet in Cannes.

All of which signifies that whereas there could also be unstated uniforms that replicate specific subcultures, particularly workplace subcultures, that does not imply that what you might be sporting just isn’t a part of the broader image.

Thus the query is much less how do you replace your wardrobe (your wardrobe is totally modern) than how do you stability becoming in along with your colleagues — demonstrating your membership within the group, which is admittedly what workplace costume codes are about — with feeling comfy and efficient (and genuine) as your self? That confidence, wherever you discover it, is just the most effective search for work.

Nonetheless, reaching some form of compromise shouldn’t be difficult. A neat jacket and slim trousers appears to be like nice with quite a lot of T-shirts or detailed blouses, which might be left untucked for a barely much less uptight impact. Anne Fontaine constructed a whole enterprise on iterations on the basic white shirt. They’re very costly however a terrific supply of inspiration Nonetheless.

Or attempt a mismatched blazer along with your skinny pants, to maneuver away from the matchy-matchiness of a swimsuit, which might appear dated. Take the sting off an influence costume with out shedding any of the punch by including some costume jewellery or a shawl. And if you wish to experiment with out the dedication of shopping for, rotate items out and in from providers like Lease the Runway till you discover a sartorial equilibrium that appears proper.

We have come a good distance from the person within the grey flannel swimsuit, however that does not imply dressing for the workplace is any simpler.

Your Fashion Questions, Answered

Each week on Open Thread, Vanessa will reply a reader’s fashion-related query, which you’ll be able to ship to her anytime through e-mail or Twitter. Questions are edited and condensed.