Go Back to Work in Style

Right, time to put the champagne flutes down and dust off your laptop bag. It may be time to hit the desk again, but hey, free love is here—in the form of a 70s revival, that is. But if you’re scratching your head about how to get your wardrobe suitably prepped to tackle Monday morning missions, read on. It’s going to be one hell of a style year, and your 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. look is no exception. Here’s four outfit ideas to try on for 2016 that’ll get you noticed for all the right reasons.

Tower High

Key piece: Platforms and flatforms

Show ’em who’s boss with a stacked-up strut that’ll turn heads (and maybe even encourage a double-take). Shoes are a great place to inject some fun into your work wardrobe while still looking kick-arse professional. Strap into platforms and chunky heels with a bit of bite. If you’re a flats girl, stay comfy in wedges or flatform pumps with a cute angled heel.

Tone Select Scala Pattern Necklace, ¥7,560; Stella McCartney Faux leather platform brogues, approximately ¥106,698; Just Female Black Cotton Wool Knit Dress, approximately ¥13,833; Ships “Reservation” Carol J Bamboo Tote, ¥33,480; Romwe Lapel Pockets Suede Long Vest, approximately ¥3,154; Cannibis ladies Luvra magic tights ¥5,184.

Pimp Your Peepers

Key piece: Statement glasses

We’re transitioning from a long cycle of clean-cut minimalism to a new era of more-is-more. Like any journey, start with small steps and tackle 70s shapes and colors bit by bit. Eyewear is a great place to experiment and works a treat to add zing to existing classic pieces. If you’re keen to update your glasses, move away from the geeky school-yard specs we’ve come to love and give curved and butterfly-shaped frames a go.

Tom Ford Notched-Brow Optical Frames, ¥53,941; Nicholas Kirkwood Carnaby patent-leather pumps, approximately ¥58,790; Victoria by Victoria Beckham Belted satin-trimmed wool-crepe jacket, approximately ¥15,3897; Max Mara Whitney Tote, ¥162,907; G-Shock for Beauty & Youth Watch, ¥16,848; Opening Ceremony Cabbage Knit Embroidered Skirt, ¥12,607.

Turn Up the Volume

Key piece: Flared pants

If you only go for one trend this season, let it be a dramatic silhouette of wide-leg or slightly flared pants topped with a classic turtleneck. This one’s perfect for girl-on-the-go readiness. You’ll be able to dress this outfit up and down as you see fit, and there’ll certainly be no messing about going from boardroom to bar while still looking like you’ve nailed the new season.

En Route two-way setup pants, ¥18,144; Charles & Keith fringe loafers, ¥4,914; Wouters & Hendrix playfully precious drop earrings, ¥29,384; Carven striped sweater, ¥32,407; Ed Robert Judson clutch and tote bag, ¥28,728; Nars Bad Influence nail polish, ¥2,327.

Drop the Bomb

Key piece: Bomber jacket

If your workplace falls into the I-wear-whatever-I-like category (ah lucky you!), I say go all out and let your weekend wear work double time, making a cameo in your office look. To channel an edgier trend for winter, pick up a jacket with raglan sleeves and elasticised waist, otherwise known as the bomber or baseball jacket. This guy will add serious kudos to any LBD or classic pencil skirt you’ve got lying around. Plus, the roominess means you stay super snug while ducking out on the inevitable 3 p.m. coffee run.

Casadei suede pumps, ¥56,189; Noma td combi riders jacket, ¥35,640; Junya Watanabe Comme Des Garcons studded decoration shirt, ¥23,012; On the Sunny Side of the Street curblink ring, ¥19,440; Clane tight knit skirt, ¥12,096; Flawless dark velvet iPhone case by Monika Strigel, approximately ¥4,731.