They say the people you’re around most have the biggest influence on you. But is the same true for style? Pre-pandemic, being surrounded by an office swarming with cool lewks on the daily was enough to inspire new outfit templates. And, if you’re anything like me, people you pass on the street are fodder for your iPhone notes entitled ‘outfit ideas’. Couple that with the ‘gram, Pinterest, and ever-formative Tumblr, our sources of inspiration are unbridled. To answer, it the people you’re around IRL? Is it the accounts you follow? It’s a cocktail of both. So while we’re not getting our office fix, I gift to you: eight dress-centric outfits styled virtually by THE ICONIC HQ staff. Take that, trackies!
NICOLE, HEAD OF STYLE
“I'll always look for multifunctional pieces that I can style to get the best cost per wear. This SIR The Label dress is cute for Friday night drinks but can be worn with a checked boyfriend blazer to warm it up and make it work for the office or daytime catch-ups. Plus, when summer comes, it's going to be a great beach dress ... Black forms the base of my wardrobe so I add whatever happens to be the latest trend, print, or colour on top of it."
ANGELA, SENIOR DESIGNER
“This denim Topshop dress ticks all the boxes for me: stylish yet casual, can be worn now with tights and in spring with sandals, great value for money, and it has POCKETS. The cost per wear is practically zero. I’d add tan knee-high boots or Common Projects sneakers for effortless cool, depending on what mood I’m in. I’d season with a minimal ring and a fun headband as a subtle nod to the ’70s.”
SRISHA, ENGAGEMENT MARKETING COORDINATOR
“I'd rock this classic LBD at a festie (when they’re finally back)! It’s cute and confident, but comfy at the same time. I often find myself purchasing men's sneakers, hence the boot-like sneakers by White Mountaineering ... And to finish? Gold earrings, a utilitarian camera bag to take the all-important pics, and a pair of black shades by Poppy Lissiman.”
HELEN, PRODUCT MARKETING MANAGER
“I can't go wrong with a floral midi dress! It’s easy to dress up with heels and a leather jacket for dinner or, for a casual look, I’ll throw on adidas Supercourts and an oversized jumper over the top. Finally, a pair of simple gold hoops bode well to either occasion.”
AMREETA, PR MANAGER
“I love everything about this dress! I’m a fan of paring down tailored pieces so I’ll add sneakers and a fun clam bag. It’s an ensemble I’d wear out on a Saturday night... In my true personal style, I’m channeling comfort while keeping things elegant and effortlessly chic.”
ASHLEY, EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
“I love the versatility of a knit dress. It can be dressed down with denim for a beach picnic or dressed up with heels for date night. In winter I’ll double up on knitwear for added warmth. Keeping it minimal also means your accessories can change the look completely depending on your mood.”
EVELINE, UX DESIGNER
“While I find separates easier to mix up my wardrobe, the beautiful colours and pleats in this Gorman dress are irresistible! It’s such a simple, flattering silhouette. And it’s versatile – think a glam layered look with boots and a long-sleeved tee in winter or show a bit of skin and style it on its own for summer.”
Choose your own adventure. You’re ready to shop anything but tracksuits.