Step into summer 2026 with a workwear wardrobe styled to perfection. Find your style, explore key trends, and learn how to combine shapes, colours, and textures to create polished, confident outfits every day.


The Professional Pro

Confident, polished, and reliable – she’s sharp, organised, and ready for anything the workday throws at her. Her wardrobe is classic, dependable, and effortlessly professional.

Styling is deliberate yet restrained, with smooth finishes, a neutral palette, and unfussy accessories that keep the focus on proportion and polish. Structured tops paired with flowing skirts or satin pieces create balance, maintaining a clean, confident silhouette without leaning too relaxed. Neutral tones such as black, white, and cream reinforce the crisp, modern aesthetic, while lightweight layers add subtle sophistication. The overall effect is effortless yet sharp and quietly authoritative.

Key Pieces:

  • Structured blouses
  • Satin skirts
  • Lightweight cardigan or blazer
  • Classic sheath dresses in a neutral tone
  • Pointed flats, pumps, or loafers
  • Versatile black handbags
  • Staple earrings (studs or small hoops)

Pictured: Country Road Texture Zip Neck T-Shirt, Mi Piaci Bronny Bag, Storm Satin Skirt, Mischief Shoes Abbot Slingback

The Statement Maker

Expressive, commanding, and unapologetic – she gravitates toward eye-catching designs and striking details that leave a lasting impression while remaining refined and work-ready.

This wardrobe is confident, deliberate, and impossible to ignore. Bold colours and expressive prints are combined with sculptural silhouettes and standout details, creating outfits that are both dynamic and refined. Pair patterned pieces such as animal motifs or geometric prints with tailored shapes, and accessorise with chunky jewellery and architectural bags to keep the look balanced.

Tip: Start small! Add a pair of animal print shoes to a plain outfit for a subtle introduction to statement.

Key Pieces

  • Animal print pants or skirts
  • Bright coloured blouses or shirts
  • Patterned dresses
  • Embellished sandals or heels
  • Chunky jewellery in preferred metal
  • Architectural bags with texture or colour

Pictured: Storm Drape Front Top, Stella + Gemma Round Textured Earrings, BLAK Walk on Water Pants, Storm Cross Body Bag, Mi Piaci Ode Mule

The Smart Casual

Uncomplicated, relaxed, and naturally polished – she favours easy silhouettes and soft tailoring that support long days without sacrificing style or intention.

A smart casual wardrobe is built on soft fabrics and easy silhouettes that move with the wearer. Lightweight linens, flowing trousers, and simple dresses create a comfortable, approachable aesthetic, while subtle tailoring adds quiet structure. Neutral and light colour combinations keep the look fresh and effortless. Complete these looks with simple accessories – flats or low heels, a simple crossbody or tote, and understated jewellery.

Tip: Take any outfit from casual to smart casual with a slightly higher heel and additional jewellery!

Key Pieces:

  • Simple button ups
  • Basic fitted t-shirts
  • Relaxed pants & linen midi skirts
  • Flats or low heels
  • Go-to crossbody or tote bag
  • Subtle jewellery (small studs, delicate necklace)

Pictured: Lorna Jane Cable Knit Vest, Country Road Arya Mini Stud, Stella + Gemma Large Bow Hair Claw, Repertoire Solene Wide Leg Stripe Pant, Flo & Frankie Natural Canvas Black Trim Tote, Merchant 1948 Wanda Mule

The Coordinated Confident

Deliberate, cohesive, and streamlined – she excels at assembling looks that feel unified, from colour stories to complementary shapes, delivering a consistently elevated presence.

A Coordinated Confident wardrobe translates the summer 2026 workwear trends into effortless, cohesive outfits. Matching sets and tonal pairings create a look in seconds and give you the freedom to mix and match fabrics and shades. Lightweight linens, soft cottons, and breathable blends keep outfits easy and comfortable, while accessories can be chosen freely to complement your chosen tones or add subtle contrast.

Tip: Experiment with different tones within the same palette to create depth and interest.

Key Pieces:

  • Coordinated top and bottom sets in your chosen summer tones
  • Summer dress in tonal shades
  • Tonal shoes, rotating with the seasons

Pictured: Seed Heritage Cotton Blend Knit Top & Linen Minimalist Skirt, Blue Illusion Knocker Earrings, Merchant 1948 Marisia Phone Case, Merchant 1948 Esta Sandal

The Trend-Savvy Professional

Forward-thinking, current, and dynamic – she integrates contemporary influences with restraint, creating looks that feel relevant, balanced, and unmistakably modern.

This wardrobe is driven by what’s current, wearable, and confidently styled. Summer 2026 sees a continuation of warm browns and earthy tones, paired with clean silhouettes and directional details. Fitted tops, modern necklines, and longer skirt lengths bring a contemporary edge while remaining work-appropriate. The focus is on embracing trends thoughtfully by styling them with restraint so they feel intentional rather than fleeting.

Tip: Prioritise trend pieces that work across multiple outfits and colour palettes, not just one look.

Key Pieces:

  • Fitted tops with updated necklines
  • Fluid maxi skirt or tailored pants
  • Black or cream blazer
  • Mules or sleek low heels
  • Shoulder bag in a neutral tone
  • Gold jewellery

Pictured: Seed Heritage Boat Neck 90’s Top, Marlow La Daille Croissant Hoop, moochi Suede Pouch Bag, Storm Pleated Detail Midi Skirt, Merchant 1948 Bianca Flat


Inspired by the latest trends? Discover these pieces and more in our Style Your Workday blog, and shop the looks in-store.


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Merchant 1948 is Now Open

  Tailored carefully by us, to work relentlessly for you. Merchant 1948 has been crafting shoes for over three generations, as a family-owned and operated business. Their footwear offers a mix of form, function, fashion and heritage. They are a trusted source of high quality, premium leather footwear for both men and women across New […]

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Repertoire Open Now

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