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Recently, a reader posed an insightful question about office attire that prompted me to dive deeper into the topic. Here’s the question she raised:
What are we wearing over tops at work (now that the weather is warming up and the AC is about to kick back on)? I just made shareholder at my firm so I want to look presentable, but I’m 5 ft 2 and cardigans read frumpy on me.
I completely relate to this as a shorter, busty woman. While cardigans can be practical, they have never conveyed the sense of authority I desire; I primarily wear them for warmth. Also, a huge congratulations on becoming a shareholder!
Readers shared some fantastic ideas, ranging from lady jackets, knit blazers, and linen blazers to seersucker blazers. Other suggestions included cropped boxy cardigans and a particularly interesting recommendation for “an Aritzia bomber from the Babaton line” crafted from suiting fabric. (I believe it might have been this one or that one? If you recognize your comment, please let us know!)
Readers, what styles are you choosing to wear over tops at work as we transition into spring? Are you opting for more formal workwear options like blazers and lady jackets, or experimenting with trendier styles like bombers, moto jackets, and denim blazers?
As summer approaches, here are some of our top recommendations for stylish pieces to wear over tops at work. Additionally, keep reading to discover more unique but trendy options for Spring 2025… here’s a sneak peek:
Stylish and Professional Options for What to Wear Over Tops at Work
If you’re on the hunt for a fresh addition to your spring wardrobe, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the versatility of a topper in classic colors like white, light blue, or light gray! These colors not only complement various outfits but also enhance your overall professional appearance.
Latest Trends in Sweater Lady Jackets for the Office
Some of the standout options for lady jackets that are perfect for work include sweater jackets from brands like ba&sh, Boden, and J.Crew. (Recently, M.M.LaFleur has also introduced some great pieces!) For those on a budget, consider checking out Mango, Tuckernuck (offering sizes from XXS to XXL), and CeCe. If you prefer a more structured, Chanel-style jacket for a polished look, explore options from IRO and L’Agence. Brands like Mango, J.Crew Factory, and Madewell often carry these styles at more affordable prices.
Chanel-Style Jackets That Elevate Your Work Wardrobe
As we venture into 2025, our favorite Chanel-style jackets for work are making a statement. Explore options from well-known brands like Chanel, IRO, L’Agence, and Veronica Beard. For those who prefer a more knitted look, consider styles from St. John and ba&sh. Brands like J.Crew and Nic & Zoe provide a wide range of styles available in both regular and plus sizes. On the budget-friendly side, check out CeCe, Tuckernuck (XXS-XXL), J.Crew Factory, and Mango. Furthermore, Nordstrom carries a variety of options across all price points!
Chic Knit Blazers Perfect for Professional Settings
Knit blazers strike a harmonious balance between the comfort of a sweater jacket and the structure of a traditional blazer. Brands such as J.Crew Factory and Gibsonlook have been reader favorites for many years, while newer options from Everlane and Liverpool are gaining traction. Notably, Ann Taylor and M.M.LaFleur both feature knit suiting lines that are well worth exploring.
Lightweight and Stylish Linen Blazers for Summer 2025
If you are searching for lightweight blazers to wear during the summer months, particularly in linen and breathable fabrics, you’ll find an abundance of stylish options in 2025. Notable retailers include J.Crew, Ann Taylor, J.Crew Factory, Boden, Frank & Eileen, Quince, Old Navy, Brooks Brothers, and Hobbs. Additionally, explore Uniqlo’s machine washable Airsense line and M.M.LaFleur’s new Breeze line for more options.
Discover the Best Seersucker Blazers Available in 2025
If you’re on the lookout for seersucker blazers or suits this year, there are plenty of stylish options to explore. Retailers like Ann Taylor and Loft have some excellent selections. Additionally, Nordstrom features options from Akris Punto, Tahari, Wildfang, and Scotch & Soda.
Our Favorite Sweater Jackets for a Cozy Yet Professional Look
Trendy Toppers for Business Casual Outfits
As mentioned by several readers, there’s a wide array of innovative jacket shapes available right now, including bomber jackets, cropped blazers, moto jackets, and even some nostalgic styles like denim blazers and short-sleeved blazers.
Stylish Bomber Jackets to Elevate Your Look
As previously mentioned, Aritzia carries bomber jackets in unique materials such as suiting fabrics. I particularly like this linen bomber jacket from Sanctuary, which is available at Evereve. You can also find a variety of intriguing bomber jackets on Shopbop, including this cozy sherpa style and a lovely sweater-like version.
Cropped Blazers: The Perfect Blend of Style and Comfort
Cropped work jackets are set to remain popular in 2025. Retailers like Abercrombie & Fitch and Tuckernuck offer a variety of options, while Nordstrom stocks styles from Akris, Open Edit, Steve Madden, L’Agence, and many more. Spanx also features a cropped blazer in their Perfect line!
Another trending style in cropped jackets includes options that lean less toward traditional blazers, such as this Quince cropped jacket with wide patch pockets or an Akris linen jacket, which also features wide patch pockets. Additionally, this LaMarque version available at Evereve adds ruffled short sleeves to the ensemble. (Am I crazy to think this resembles a modern take on the shacket?)
Edgy Moto Jackets Making a Comeback
Moto jackets have made a resurgence in recent years, featuring unique materials. This seersucker moto jacket from Akris serves as a prime example; you can also explore a soft denim option available at Evereve or a half-sleeve faux leather version from Evereve as well. Another great example is this twill jacket from Aritzia, which is almost sold out but showcases how the trend is evolving.
Denim Blazers: A Trendy New Look for Work
In 2025, denim blazers are making a subtle comeback. You can find various styles at retailers like Nordstrom and Ann Taylor, along with options from Quince and Cinq à Sept. Another innovative choice is the new ribbed jardigan fabric offered by M.M.LaFleur, which resembles denim, and there’s even a “cotton blend” floral jacket available at Brooks Brothers.
Short-Sleeved Blazers: A Fresh Take on Office Wear
Historically, short-sleeved blazers have been challenging to style, but they are gaining popularity once again. Brands like Ann Taylor offer a diverse range, including an adorable bright green tweed option. Evereve has various short-sleeved moto jackets, and this double-breasted short-sleeved blazer is currently on sale at Derek Lam. Interestingly, short-sleeved denim jackets are also emerging as a fashionable choice!
