Level Up Your Office Style This Season With These Smart Dresses

work dresses
The 25 Best Work Dresses for Women


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Once upon a time, dressing for the office was synonymous with wearing tea-length dresses and neutral colors. Nowadays, though, the sky's the limit in the professional workwear department. There are shirtdresses that can go from beach to boardroom with ease, frocks with floral prints, bold patterns, and vivid colors galore, and even modest minis that effortlessly transition through the change of seasons. TL;DR the options are endless. Whether you work in a formal environment or your office has a more laid-back dress code, here are the best work dresses to shop for your 9-to-5.

MORE: The Best Women's Sneakers to Wear to Work

Emerald Green Tweed Jackie Dress

On days when you want to stand out in a sea of suits, this preppy tweed number with chic braided details has you covered.

Material: 100% polyester

Size Range: XXS-XXXL

Colors: 10+

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftnuck.com%2F%2Fproducts%2Femerald-green-tweed-jackie-dress&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Emerald Green Tweed Jackie Dress</p><p>tnuck.com</p><p>$268.00</p>

The Havana Dress

This maxi can go from desk to drinks without a second thought. And the fact that it comes in a rainbow of colors is the cherry on top.

Material: 65% polyester, 35% cotton

Size Range: XS-XL

Colors: 20+

MORE: T&C Tried & True: The Brochu Walker Havana Dress Is the Most Versatile Piece of Summer

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brochuwalker.com%2Fproducts%2Fhavana-dress-red&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>The Havana Dress</p><p>brochuwalker.com</p><p>$328.00</p>

Resume Dress in Stretch Linen Blend

This aptly-named frock is great for interviews, meetings, presentations, and whatever else your job throws your way.

Material: 67% linen, 33% Sorona

Size Range: 00-24

Colors: 3

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcrew.com%2Fus%2Fp%2Fwomens%2Fcategories%2Fclothing%2Fsuiting%2Fstretch-linen%2Fresume-dress-in-stretch-linen-blend%2FL6602&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Resume Dress in Stretch Linen Blend</p><p>jcrew.com</p><p>$198.00</p>

Peak Lapel Mini Dress in Admiral Crepe

This sleeveless trench-style dress was made for a woman in charge.

Material: 70% triacetate, 30% polyester

Size Range: 00-16

Colors: 3

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theory.com%2Fpeak-lapel-mini-dress-in-admiral-crepe%2FO0109611_Z0N.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Peak Lapel Mini Dress in Admiral Crepe</p><p>theory.com</p><p>$205.00</p>

Tailored Flare Midi Dress

When it comes to easy office styles, Me+EM makes some of the best dresses in the workwear biz. Case in point: this bold, flared number that can be dressed up and down with ease.

Material: 91% viscose, 8% polyester, 1% elastane

Size Range: 2-14

Colors: 2

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.meandem.com%2Fus%2Ftailored-flare-midi-dress-super-blue&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Tailored Flare Midi Dress</p><p>meandem.com</p><p>$545.00</p>

The Felisa Dress

With a V-shaped neckline, belted waist, cap sleeves, and a pencil skirt, this modest mini will make you feel put together, comfortable, and ready for business.

Material: 53% polyester, 40% recycled polyester, 7% polyurethane

Size Range: 00-20

Colors: 3

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmmlafleur.com%2Fproducts%2Ffelisa-rhubarb&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>The Felisa Dress</p><p>mmlafleur.com</p><p>$255.00</p>

Fluid Crepe Cap Sleeve Midi Dress

We love a dress that can be worn beyond the office, and this draped LBD is exactly what we had in mind.

Material: 100% viscose

Size Range: 0-12

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.meandem.com%2Fus%2Fcap-sleeve-midi-dress-black&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Fluid Crepe Cap Sleeve Midi Dress</p><p>meandem.com</p><p>$295.00</p>

Rhea Dress

Combine delicately puffed shoulders with a fitted bodice, and what you get is at is the perfect daytime dress around. Pair with ballet flats or style with heeled sandals—it'll look great no matter what.

Material: 100% cotton

Size Range: 00-16

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fullajohnson.com%2Fcollections%2Fdresses-7cf056%2Fproducts%2Frhea-dress-midnight-navy-blue&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Rhea Dress</p><p>ullajohnson.com</p><p>$570.00</p>

Belted Striped Cotton Shirtdress

Few styles are more classic than a striped shirtdress. Wear with sandals while on the clock, or pair with white sneakers when you're off duty.

Material: Cotton

Size Range: 00-18

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ralphlauren.com%2Fwomen-clothing-dresses-jumpsuits%2Fbelted-striped-cotton-shirtdress%2F638600.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Belted Striped Cotton Shirtdress</p><p>ralphlauren.com</p><p>$248.00</p>

Wes Pintucked Cotton-Poplin Maxi Dress

Cut from lightweight cotton poplin, this pleated number that effortlessly accentuates the body is a must on blistering hot days. Our recommendation: Give the look a spin with strappy heeled sandals to show off your well-pedicured toes.

Material: 100% cotton poplin

Size Range: 0-12

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.net-a-porter.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Fproduct%2Fkhaite%2Fclothing%2Fmidi-dresses%2Fwes-pintucked-cotton-poplin-maxi-dress%2F1647597332754730&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Wes Pintucked Cotton-Poplin Maxi Dress</p><p>net-a-porter.com</p><p>$1680.00</p>

Chloe Dress

Posh enough for the most important meetings and elevated enough for weekend excursions and lunch with the ladies, what you're looking at is a shirtdress that can be worn absolutely everywhere. The key is just switching up the accessories.

Material: 80% polyester, 20% cotton

Size Range: XXS-XXXL

Colors: 7

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftnuck.com%2Fcollections%2Fworkwear%2Fproducts%2Fslate-blue-chloe-dress&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Chloe Dress</p><p>tnuck.com</p><p>$298.00</p>

Poplin Pleated Shirtdress

Tory Burch takes the classic shirtdress up a notch with a pleated skirt and a nipped-in waist finished with a belt. We wouldn't expect anything less.

Material: 65% polyester, 35% cotton

Size Range: 00-14

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.toryburch.com%2Fen-us%2Fclothing%2Fdresses%2Fpoplin-pleated-shirtdress%2F157497.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Poplin Pleated Shirtdress</p><p>toryburch.com</p><p>$698.00</p>

Bloom Shirt Dress

On days when the weather can't quite make up its mind, a floral shirt dress with three-quarter length sleeves is the perfect solution to your "what should I wear today" dilemma. Pair with Mary Janes during the warmer months, and once the temps drop under 50 in fall, wear with knee-high boots.

Material: 100% viscose

Size Range: 2-22

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Frixolondon.com%2Fen-us%2Fproducts%2Fbloom-dress-ditsy-cream&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Bloom Shirt Dress</p><p>rixolondon.com</p><p>$360.00</p>

Tunica Pinstripe Puff Sleeve Sheath Dress

Proof that workwear can be both playful and professional.

Material: 87% cotton, 8% cashmere, 5% silk

Size Range: 2-16

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7665531&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Tunica Pinstripe Puff Sleeve Sheath Dress</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><p>$1245.00</p>

Elle Knitted Wrap-Front Midi Dress

When in doubt, go for a classic—and by that we mean, a tea-length wrap dress.

Material: 65% viscose, 34% nylon, 1% elastine

Size Range: XS-XL

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.reiss.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fstyle%2Fsu201616%2F172837%23172837&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Elle Knitted Wrap-Front Midi Dress</p><p>reiss.com</p><p>$290.00</p>

Amor Ribbed Knit Cashmere-Silk Polo Midi Dress

Workwear shouldn't feel blah. Consider opting for a sophisticated dress in a vibrant hue to brighten up your look (and the office).

Material: 70% Cashmere, 30% Silk

Size Range: XS-L

Colors: 3

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.modaoperandi.com%2Fwomen%2Fp%2Fgabriela-hearst%2Famor-polo-neck-ribbed-knit-cashmere-silk-midi-dress%2F618748&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Amor Ribbed Knit Cashmere-Silk Polo Midi Dress</p><p>modaoperandi.com</p><p>$1550.00</p><span class="copyright">MODA OPERANDI</span>

Archetypes Belted Gathered Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

The stakes are high if you work in office full of fashion-forward woman. Our solution? A dress as polished as this belted Alaïa number is guaranteed to earn you the title of best dressed employee.

Material: 100% cotton

Size Range: FR34-FR46

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.net-a-porter.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Fproduct%2Falaia%2Fclothing%2Fmidi-dresses%2Farchetypes-belted-gathered-cotton-poplin-midi-dress%2F1647597325491123&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Archetypes Belted Gathered Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress</p><p>net-a-porter.com</p><p>$2930.00</p>

Ruben Seamed Denim Shirtdress

Sure, denim tends to lean on the casual side of things, but when you pair this accentuating number with slingbacks and chunky earrings? Elegant as can be.

Material: 100% cotton

Size Range: 00-14

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saksfifthavenue.com%2Fproduct%2FVeronica-Beard-Ruben-Seamed-Denim-Shirtdress-0400020842747.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Ruben Seamed Denim Shirtdress</p><p>saksfifthavenue.com</p><p>$428.00</p>

Jackie Belted Stretch Gabardine Sheath Dress

A basic black dress need not be boring, as proven by the asymmetrical neckline and thin belt on this polished number.

Material: 63% polyamide, 33% viscose, 4% spandex

Size Range: 0-18

Colors: 4

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F3182016&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Jackie Belted Stretch Gabardine Sheath Dress</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><p>$375.00</p>

Dakela Ruched Sheath Dress

The side ruching on this simple sheath flatters the waist and adds interest to an otherwise understated silhouette.

Material: 67% viscose, 29% polyester, 4% elastane

Size Range: 0-14

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7621409&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Dakela Ruched Sheath Dress </p><p>nordstrom.com</p><p>$545.00</p>

Lina Linen Midi Dress

On sweltering summer days in the city, this linen, corset-like midi will come in handy.

Material: 100% linen

Size Range: 0-20

Colors: 2

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbananarepublic.gap.com%2Fbrowse%2Fproduct.do%3Fpid%3D882367&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Lina Linen Midi Dress</p><p>bananarepublic.gap.com</p><p>$160.00</p>

Love Story Floral Print Cap Sleeve Dress

A smocked dress with ditsy floral details makes this a great office option during the warmer months.

Material: 100% polyester

Size Range: XS-XL

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7620922&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Love Story Floral Print Cap Sleeve Dress</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><p>$128.00</p>

Linen-Cotton Bouclé Tweed Buttoned Dress

Prim and proper is the name of the game with this elegant tweed frock.

Material: 68% linen, 16% cotton, 16% polyamide

Size Range: 00-18

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lafayette148ny.com%2Flinen-cotton-boucle-tweed-buttoned-dress&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Linen-Cotton Bouclé Tweed Buttoned Dress</p><p>lafayette148ny.com</p><p>$998.00</p>

Lydia Belted Off-the-Shoulder Striped Cotton-Blend Poplin Midi Dress

A little bit skin-baring, a little bit demure, this elegant collared dress will score you compliments left and right all day at the office.

Material: 97% cotton, 3% elastane

Size Range: FR34-FR46

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.net-a-porter.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Fproduct%2Faltuzarra%2Fclothing%2Fmidi-dresses%2Flydia-belted-off-the-shoulder-striped-cotton-blend-poplin-midi-dress%2F1647597326451202&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Lydia Belted Off-the-Shoulder Striped Cotton-Blend Poplin Midi Dress</p><p>net-a-porter.com</p><p>$1495.00</p>

The Perfect Vest Dress

With a silhouette-enhancing shape and smoothing fabric that feels like a hug around the body, it's no wonder why Spanx calls this style the "perfect" dress.

Material: 68% rayon, 28% nylon, 4% elastane

Size Range: XS-3X

Colors: 3

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fspanx.com%2Fcollections%2Fdresses-jumpsuits%2Fproducts%2Fthe-perfect-vest-dress&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.townandcountrymag.com%2Fstyle%2Ffashion-trends%2Fg43840176%2Fbest-work-dresses-women%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>The Perfect Vest Dress</p><p>spanx.com</p><p>$168.00</p>

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