The 30 best work dresses brands
Calvin Klein, Banana Republic and J.CREW lead our ranking of 30 work dresses brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Work Dresses brands, ranked
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1
Calvin Klein
Ribbed knit and pinstripe sheaths with a self-tie belt at the waist, cut for office days.
Top products: Sheath Dress
Website: calvinklein.us |Brands like Calvin Klein
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Banana Republic
Clean-lined sheath dresses and wool-blend work styles, priced a little above basics but still easy to wear daily.
Top products: Sheath Dress
Website: bananarepublic.eu |Brands like Banana Republic
Popularity 9.5/10
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3
J.CREW
Structured wool sheath dresses and striped shift styles with polished details, a step up in tailoring.
Top products: Empire Waist Shift Dress
Website: jcrew.com |Brands like J.CREW
Popularity 8.9/10
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4
LOFT
Affordable everyday workwear with textured knits, back zips and petite sizing for shorter frames.
Website: loft.com |Brands like LOFT
Popularity 8.5/10
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5
Talbots
Classic cuts in cotton and lace with a dedicated petite range, suited to conservative offices.
Top products: Shift Dress
Website: talbots.com |Brands like Talbots
Popularity 8.4/10
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6
Anthropologie
Embroidered midi dresses and puff-sleeve knits from in-house labels, with a whimsical, vintage-leaning feel.
Top products: Delphine Sweater Twofer Mini Dress
Website: anthropologie.com |Brands like Anthropologie
Popularity 8.1/10
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7
Zara
Trend-driven shapes in fitted sheaths and tailored midi dresses, usually priced below designer labels.
Website: zara.com |Brands like Zara
Popularity 7.6/10
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8
Boden
Bright prints and fluted sleeves give Boden's British take on office dressing a cheerful edge.
Top products: Delia Dress· Easy Day Dress
Website: bodenusa.com |Brands like Boden
Popularity 7.0/10
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9
J. Jill
Comfort-focused knits and stretch fabrics in roomy fits, sold largely through catalogue and online.
Website: jjill.com |Brands like J. Jill
Popularity 6.5/10
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10
Old Navy
Budget-friendly jersey and stretch knit sheaths, often in stripes, a casual option for relaxed workplaces.
Website: oldnavy.gap.com |Brands like Old Navy
Popularity 6.3/10
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11
LuLaRoe
Soft jersey dresses sold through independent consultants, with cuts that favour comfort over structure.
Website: lularoe.com |Brands like LuLaRoe
Popularity 6.2/10
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12
White House Black Market
Polished pieces in ruched and floral midi styles, with petite and tall sizing for office-ready looks.
Top products: Ruched Midi Dress
Website: whitehouseblackmarket.com |Brands like White House Black Market
Popularity 6.2/10
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13
Lilly Pulitzer
Palm Beach prints in bold colours make these resort-inspired dresses a louder choice for offices.
Website: lillypulitzer.com |Brands like Lilly Pulitzer
Popularity 5.9/10
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14
Tommy Hilfiger
Preppy logo details and tweed or dotted prints, with classic shift and bodycon shapes at mid prices.
Website: usa.tommy.com |Brands like Tommy Hilfiger
Popularity 5.6/10
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15
Free People
Bohemian silhouettes, soft textures and relaxed fits, a looser alternative to structured office dresses.
Website: freepeople.com |Brands like Free People
Popularity 5.6/10
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16
Michael Kors
Michael Kors Shoes, handbags and crossbody bags are the signature lines of the American accessories label founded in 1981. Wallets, footwear and jewelry are also made under the label. Its designs feature a polished, glamorous look built around logo hardware...
Website: michaelkors.com |Brands like Michael Kors
Popularity 5.5/10
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17
Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher, named after the said lady Eileen, was founded in 1984, with only $350 as an investment. It now has 65 stores across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It is a women's apparel label that designs...
Website: eileenfisher.com |Brands like Eileen Fisher
Popularity 5.5/10
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18
Diane von Furstenberg
Diane Von Furstenberg is a dynamic fashion brand that makes truly classy pieces of outfits for women. They specialize in manufacturing wrap dresses and tops by blending soft and comfortable fabrics and tailoring them into the most exquisite apparel. Their...
Website: dvf.com |Brands like Diane von Furstenberg
Popularity 5.4/10
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19
H&M
H&M, a Swedish fashion retailer, sells affordable clothing for men, women, teens and children. Its women's dresses, sweaters and skirts follow fast-moving trends at low prices. Accessories sit alongside its clothing, and the retailer sells online in many countries.
Website: www2.hm.com |Brands like H&M
Popularity 5.3/10
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20
Madewell
The core beliefs of Madewell lie in improving and promoting a worker-friendly environment. They work only with the suppliers who understand their vision and maintain it. To Madewell, every outfit has a story, so they weave together the story and...
Website: madewell.com |Brands like Madewell
Popularity 5.0/10
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21
Torrid
Torrid makes plus-size women's clothing, including tops, blouses, dresses and jeans, along with intimate apparel, skirts, formal wear and swimwear. The American brand started in 2001 with a store in Brea, California, and has grown into a chain across the...
Website: torrid.com |Brands like Torrid
Popularity 5.0/10
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22
J. McLaughlin
If you enjoy breaking the latest trends and creating your own style, J.McLaughlin has been waiting for you. Their men’s and women’s collection is jaw-dropping. The varieties include Sophia and faux suede dresses, and uppers, while their men’s collection boasts...
Website: jmclaughlin.com |Brands like J. McLaughlin
Popularity 4.9/10
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23
Chico's
Chico's, a clothing brand sold online and in its own stores, offers soft knit tops, tailored jackets and stretch denim in its women's line. Many pieces use comfortable, fluid fabrics and come in petite, regular, and plus sizes. Blouses and...
Website: chicos.com |Brands like Chico's
Popularity 4.7/10
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24
Theory
Theory's women's dresses, trousers and knitwear are part of its range. The label pairs clean, minimal cuts with careful construction for both workwear and off-duty wear. Its men's clothing and sweaters follow the same understated approach.
Website: theory.com |Brands like Theory
Popularity 4.5/10
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25
Ralph Lauren
Based in New York, Ralph Lauren sells men's and women's clothing built around classic American style. Its men's polo shirts, long sleeve shirts and women's collections carry the brand's pony logo. The men's and women's lines share a classic look,...
Website: ralphlauren.com |Brands like Ralph Lauren
Popularity 4.3/10
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26
Express
Express builds fashion apparel, and its jewelry includes dog tag necklaces, silver chain styles, and infinity pendants. As an American fashion retailer, Express offers these pieces alongside its clothing. Silver circle and infinity pieces work well layered or worn alone...
Website: express.com |Brands like Express
Popularity 4.2/10
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27
Lands' End
Lands' End is all about feeling comfortable every day. The company aims to deliver products that provide comfort and help to keep you in style. Every person wants to feel good constantly. Whether 50 degrees summer day or a chilly...
Website: landsend.com |Brands like Lands' End
Popularity 4.2/10
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28
Anne Klein
Anne Klein is your one-stop-shop for the best designer clothing, accessories, shoes, etc. The label became noted for its characteristic clean lines and primary forms after being founded by Anne Klein and her husband, Arnold Greenberg. You'll appear polished from...
Website: anneklein.com |Brands like Anne Klein
Popularity 4.1/10
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29
Liz Claiborne
With a vision for women who lead active lives, Liz Claiborne is a widely known and award-winning designer of women's clothing. We believe every woman deserves to have her signature style - one that is chic and sophisticated but also...
Website: jcpenney.com |Brands like Liz Claiborne
Popularity 4.1/10
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30
Trina Turk
Swimwear with designer cover-ups and sheath dresses define the Trina Turk range, which is rooted in its California origins. The swimsuits range from two-piece sets to plus-size bikinis, paired with kimono robes and other cover-ups. Trina Turk also makes women's...
Website: trinaturk.com |Brands like Trina Turk
Popularity 3.9/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calvin Klein | calvinklein.us | /calvinklein | calvinklein | @calvinklein |
| Banana Republic | bananarepublic.eu | /BananaRepublic | bananarepublic | @BananaRepublic |
| J.CREW | jcrew.com | – | – | – |
| LOFT | loft.com | – | loft | – |
| Talbots | talbots.com | /TALBOTS | talbotsofficial | @TalbotsOfficial |
| Anthropologie | anthropologie.com | /Anthropologie | anthropologie | @anthropologie |
| Zara | zara.com | – | – | – |
| Boden | bodenusa.com | /JohnnieBoden | boden_clothing | @bodenclothing |
| J. Jill | jjill.com | /jjillstyle | jjillstyle | @jjillstyle |
| Old Navy | oldnavy.gap.com | – | – | – |
Work Dresses Buying Guide
For the modern working woman, finding the right dress for the office can be a daunting task. It's not just about finding a dress that looks good, but also one that will keep you comfortable throughout the day. There are also many different styles to choose from, and you want to make sure the dress you buy is one that you'll feel confident wearing. Here's a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the perfect work dress.
Know Your Office Dress Code
Before you start shopping for a work dress, it's important to know the dress code of your office. Some offices require formal business attire, while others allow business casual. If you work in a creative field, your office may have a more relaxed dress code than a traditional office. Knowing your office dress code will help you determine what styles and fabrics are appropriate for your workplace.
The Material
The material of a work dress is important for both comfort and appearance. You want to choose a material that is comfortable to wear all day, but also one that looks professional. Here are some common materials to consider:
- Cotton: Cotton is a natural material that is breathable and comfortable, making it a popular choice for work dresses.
- Polyester: Polyester is often used in work dresses because it's durable and easy to care for. It also has a professional appearance.
- Wool: Wool is a great material for work dresses, especially in the winter. It's warm and comfortable, and has a refined look.
- Silk: Silk is a luxurious material that looks and feels elegant. It's a great choice for formal offices and special occasions.
The Style
When it comes to work dresses, there are many different styles to choose from. The style you choose should depend on your personal taste, as well as what is appropriate for your workplace. Here are some popular styles to consider:
A-line dress
An A-line dress is a classic style that flares out from the waist, creating a flattering silhouette. This style is appropriate for most workplaces and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Sheath dress
A sheath dress is a fitted style that hugs your body from the bust to the hips. This style is great for a more formal workplace and looks professional and chic.
Wrap dress
A wrap dress is a versatile style that can be adjusted to fit your body. It's great for curvy women and is appropriate for most workplaces.
Shift dress
A shift dress is a loose, boxy style that doesn't hug your body. This style is comfortable and appropriate for more casual workplaces.
The Length
The length of a work dress is important to consider, as it can affect both comfort and professionalism. Here are some popular lengths to choose from:
- Knee-length: Knee-length dresses are a classic style that is appropriate for most workplaces. They're also comfortable to wear all day.
- Midi-length: Midi-length dresses fall below the knee but above the ankle. This length is great for a more formal workplace.
- Maxi-length: Maxi-length dresses fall to the floor and can be a great choice for a formal workplace or special occasion.
The Color
The color of a work dress can affect how professional it looks. Here are some popular colors to consider:
- Black: Black is a classic color that looks professional and chic.
- Gray: Gray is a neutral color that is appropriate for most workplaces.
- Navy: Navy is a popular color for work dresses because it's professional and versatile.
- Burgundy: Burgundy is a sophisticated color that is appropriate for a more formal workplace.
The Fit
The fit of a work dress is important for both comfort and professionalism. A dress that is too tight will look unprofessional, while a dress that is too loose will look sloppy. Here are some tips for choosing the right fit:
- Make sure the dress is not too tight in the bust or hips.
- Choose a dress that flatters your body type.
- Avoid dresses that are too short or too revealing.
The Accessories
The accessories you wear with your work dress can help to complete your outfit and make it look more professional. Here are some accessories to consider:
- Jewelry: A simple necklace or pair of earrings can add a touch of elegance to your work dress.
- Shoes: Choose a comfortable pair of shoes that are appropriate for your workplace. Flats or kitten heels are a popular choice.
- Belt: Add a belt to your dress to cinch your waist and create a more polished look.
- Handbag: Choose a roomy handbag that can hold all of your work essentials.
Conclusion
Choosing the right work dress can help you feel confident and comfortable throughout the day. Consider the material, style, length, color, fit, and accessories when choosing a dress for work. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to find a dress that is both professional and stylish.
