Getting dressed for the office can sometimes feel like following a uniform code—predictable blazers, neatly pressed trousers, and crisp button-down shirts. While professional attire has its place, sticking strictly to the basics can make your work wardrobe feel repetitive. The good news? You don’t need a major fashion overhaul to make your outfits more interesting.
The secret lies in accessories. A thoughtfully chosen bag, a subtle touch of jewelry, or even a playful pair of shoes can add just the right amount of personality to your look—without raising any eyebrows from HR. Not only do accessories let you express yourself within the boundaries of a dress code, but they also boost your confidence. And when you feel good, you work better.
Here are five office-approved accessories that can elevate your professional style instantly.
1. Mary Jane Shoes
Classic work shoes—loafers, Oxfords, or ankle boots—are reliable, but let’s be honest: they aren’t always the most comfortable, especially when temperatures climb and the office air conditioning can’t keep up.
Enter the Mary Jane. With their timeless appeal, these shoes strike the perfect balance between professional and playful. They’re closed-toe, which keeps them within dress code rules, but their delicate strap and sleek silhouette add a little charm that typical office shoes often lack.
Opt for a pair with a small block heel if you want a bit of height, or go for flat versions if you prefer practicality. Either way, Mary Janes are versatile enough to pair with everything from tailored trousers to skirts, instantly making your outfit look more polished and intentional.
2. A Tweed Bag
Your work bag does more than carry your laptop and daily essentials—it’s a statement piece you bring into every meeting, lunch, and commute. While leather totes are a safe and timeless choice, they can sometimes feel predictable.
A tweed bag, on the other hand, adds character. With its rich texture and heritage feel, tweed brings an understated elegance that leans classic but never boring. An Irish tweed tote in black-and-white herringbone, for instance, feels sophisticated without blending into the sea of standard work bags.
If you’re not a tote person, you’ll find tweed satchels, saddle bags, or even structured backpacks that balance practicality with style. Plus, because tweed bags are often handwoven by skilled artisans, they’re built to last—even if you’re guilty of overstuffing them with files and snacks.
3. A Silk Scarf
Scarves are one of the most underrated office accessories. Small silk versions, in particular, are endlessly versatile yet often overlooked.
A silk scarf can do wonders for a simple outfit. Tie one around your neck to brighten up a plain blouse, drape it over your shoulders with a sheath dress, or wrap it around the handle of your work bag for an easy pop of color. This one accessory can shift your look from straightforward to chic with almost no effort.
Because silk scarves are available in countless patterns and hues, they’re also a subtle way to bring in seasonal colors or express your personality without breaking corporate boundaries. Once you add one to your rotation, you’ll wonder how your office wardrobe ever functioned without it.
4. Hoop Earrings
Jewelry options at work are often limited to small studs or dainty necklaces. But if there’s one piece that consistently works across industries, it’s hoop earrings.
Hoops are understated enough to remain professional, yet they add just the right amount of shine and polish. The beauty of this accessory lies in its versatility: you can choose slim, barely-there hoops for everyday wear or larger, statement-making pairs for casual Fridays and after-work events.
For a fresh twist, try variations like oval hoops or designs with subtle twists. These keep the look refined while ensuring your jewelry feels modern rather than predictable.
5. Sheer Tights
Tights may seem purely functional—something to keep you warm in winter or add modesty when wearing dresses and skirts. But with a bit of styling, sheer tights can become an accessory in their own right.
Instead of plain black, try delicate patterns like polka dots, herringbone, or subtle stripes. These designs remain office-appropriate while adding a layer of intentional style to even the most basic outfits. A skirt-and-blouse combination paired with patterned sheer tights suddenly feels curated rather than thrown together.
It’s a simple way to refresh your wardrobe without buying new clothes.
The Bottom Line
Office dress codes don’t have to stifle your personal style. The key is knowing how to work within the boundaries while still allowing your personality to shine through. Accessories like Mary Janes, tweed bags, silk scarves, hoop earrings, and sheer tights prove that small details can make a big difference.
When your wardrobe feels less like a routine and more like a reflection of who you are, your confidence grows—and so does your productivity. After all, a workday always feels a little brighter when your outfit inspires you as much as your morning coffee does.
