From den to desk: WFH fashion that does its job in the office

The dress codes that once defined working from home versus the office are increasingly interchangeable as a flexible approach to work-life balance enters the fashion fray. The traditional wardrobe choices that once boxed off both environments are less rigorous and there are lots of looks to keep your feet safely in both camps. All the big brands, from glamorous Joseph Ribkoff to N&C Kilkenny, have adopted a neutral work zone that takes you from the drawingroom to the boardroom in convincing fashion.

The new approach is laid back though stylish in an effortless way, but steers clear of going pyjama-rama or legging it into work in a velour tracksuit and flip flops. Leggings and Lycra should only be adopted by yoga gurus or personal trainers.

According to fashion expert Holly McGurk of McGurks Fashion Group: “Women can easily achieve a sleek, sophisticated look without the discomfort of restrictive and sometimes weighty materials with summer looks from sophisticated and affordable brands such as Joseph Ribkoff. Relaxed tailoring is the key message for anyone curating a wardrobe to take them from the home office to the boardroom. Mix and match the jacket and trousers and create a combination of looks for any occasion.”

This summer there is more emphasis on quality and comfort, with looser fitted blouses, jackets and trousers in the men's wear section too. One of the best-sellers this season is the Marks & Spencer’s linen-rich suit from their Italian Linen Miracle stable. The latest linen crease-resistant technology reduces creasing during daywear so you can stay looking smart. We all know the pitfalls of linen. It looks great as you sashay off to work as crisp as a wafer – but by the time you get off the bus you loosely resemble an unmade bed with crumpled material and crinkled jackets.

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Their new linen contains added stretch to allow movement with ease. The navy or cream single-breasted suits offers a streamlined look and the cool lining provides extra comfort and pairs perfectly with matching trousers.

Louis Copeland delivers laid-back executive choices using a selection of designer favourites from the single-breasted casual jacket to the cream narrow chinos and suede loafers.

Going sock-free is also a trend as a cooler, barefoot option for strolling down the corridors. Play the footsie index with smart shoes with dandelion tassels or loafers by Gucci or Ferragamo. Alternatively, if you are sole searching for a cheaper yet chic version, pop into Zara and come out like a well-heeled executive.

The latest office armour is designed with emphasis on comfort and sustainability in mind as we steer clear of fast fashion labels.

Women who are seeking the effortless yet affluent image, seen in TV series such as Succession, can team high waisted wide-legged trousers with slim T-shirts and neat cashmere cardis. Clinch the look with accessories such as statement belts, gold chains and a ruthless sense of ambition while you deftly climb the corporate ladder in a pair of kitten heels.

For bags of panache with less investment required, check out the tie-waist dresses from N&C Kilkenny – ideal for comfort as well as style. Nail your business deals with hard-wearing shellac nails and sharp silhouette trousers and stilettos – keep a pair of flats for meandering home.

McGurk also advises customers to invest in a neutral jacket with a laid-back style that is sure to take you anywhere. Team it with the ever popular white, stretch-denim jeans for summer-friendly flair or over a floaty skirt and sandals.